Detroit Lions Preseason Questions: Where Do They Stand Now?

The Offensive Line

Aug 2, 2013; Allen Park, MI, USA; Detroit Lions guard Larry Warford (75) during training camp at Detroit Lions training facility. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Remember when Larry Warford was struggling in camp, and there was thought that Jake Scott or Rodney Austin would start at right guard? Fast forward to today, where that same rookie from Kentucky is currently rated the seventh-best guard in the NFL by PFF and the other two are not on the 53-man roster. Warford has seemingly cemented his spot as a fixture on the Detroit offensive line in just 8 games.

While many (myself included) felt Riley Reiff was best suited to play right tackle, he’s been more than adequate protecting Matthew Stafford’s blind side so far this season.

Meanwhile, the revolving door (albeit due to injuries) at right tackle has stopped momentarily on rookie undrafted free agent LaAdrian Waddle out of Texas Tech. He’s played extremely well in just one and a half games. So well, in fact, that some analysts are already calling for the Lions brass to name him full time starter.

The two returners from last years line, Rob Sims and Dominic Raiola, have quietly done their jobs all season. Raiola actually seems to have improved so far this season, while leading a line with three brand new starters

So far the big boys up front in Detroit have relieved Lions fans from the early season concerns.