The Detroit Lions entered the 2025 season with lofty expectations, aiming to push deeper into the playoffs and contend for a Super Bowl berth. For years, their offensive line had been a cornerstone of their success—physically dominating opponents, wearing down defenses, and creating clean pockets for Jared Goff. However, just one game into the new season, that once-reliable unit looks like the Lions’ biggest liability rather than their greatest strength.
The first crack appeared months ago when longtime center Frank Ragnow unexpectedly announced his retirement. His departure forced the Lions to completely rebuild the interior of their offensive line. While fans hoped the replacements would hold their own, Week 1’s 27–13 loss to the Green Bay Packers exposed how fragile this new group really is. Without at least average play from the center and guards, the Lions’ offense collapsed under pressure—literally.
According to Pro Football Focus, Detroit’s interior linemen allowed three sacks, two quarterback hits, four hurries, and nine total pressures in the opener. None of them graded higher than 55.0 overall. Veteran center Graham Glasgow had the worst outing, earning a dismal 43.6. His struggles were glaring during a fourth-quarter run from inside their own five-yard line. On that play, both Glasgow and rookie right guard Tate Ratledge completely missed their assignments, letting Rashan Gary and Colby Wooden swarm running back David Montgomery at the one-yard line.
Ratledge, to his credit, owned up to his performance. “Obviously, starting with myself, I’ve got to go out there and be better,” the rookie said postgame. “I did not have my best game where I needed to play well. Did not play to this team’s standard, especially not this offensive line room’s standard. So I’ve got to go in, go to work, and try to get better from it.” His blunt self-criticism showed maturity and accountability, qualities that could eventually help him grow into a reliable starter.
Still, accountability alone won’t stop opposing pass rushers. The other two interior linemen declined media interviews after the loss, but their film speaks volumes. Protection broke down repeatedly, collapsing pockets before Goff could even set his feet. With Decker already battling injuries on the edge, the Lions cannot afford weakness up the middle.
If Detroit doesn’t fix these interior issues immediately, their dreams of making a Super Bowl run will vanish quickly. The offensive line—once their greatest weapon—has now become the biggest roadblock standing in their way. The Lions’ fate in 2025 may rest entirely on whether this rebuilt unit can find its footing before the season slips away.