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Detroit Lions’ early 53-man roster projections: Guard/Center

By Forrester Solmen

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 16: Travis Swanson #64 of the Detroit Lions and Graham Glasgow #60 double team Matt Longacre #96 of the Los Angeles Rams as he rushes quarterback Matthew Stafford #9 during second half at Ford Field on October 16, 2016 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit Lions defeated the Los Angeles Rams 31-28. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 16: Travis Swanson #64 of the Detroit Lions and Graham Glasgow #60 double team Matt Longacre #96 of the Los Angeles Rams as he rushes quarterback Matthew Stafford #9 during second half at Ford Field on October 16, 2016 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit Lions defeated the Los Angeles Rams 31-28. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /
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The Detroit Lions’ interior offensive line will be positions to pay close attention to. It is uncertain how the guards and centers will turn out.

Upgrading the offensive line quickly became a top priority in free agency for the Detroit Lions. On paper, it looks improved, but the entire left side of the line is still filled with question marks. The center spot looks good if health concerns aren’t an issue, but there is a lot competition at both interior positions flying slightly under the radar.

IN

It’ll be safe to assume the Lions will have a combined five guards/centers, bringing the entire offensive line to nine total. With competition heating up, these projections will be difficult to make, which is a good thing.

Travis Swanson

The lone stable piece from last seasons’ offensive line to return to the lineup in 2017. He locked down the center position after fending off some competition and deflecting doubts from many fans. Although this is likely his final season in Detroit, he will prove once again he is one of the best centers in the business.

Graham Glasgow

Currently fighting to start at left guard and is also the backup at center for the time being. He is not convincing enough to be a starter, but he will certainly make the team. He is expected to carry the torch at center once his time comes.

Laken Tomlinson

It remains yet to be seen what the true nature of this player really is. Whether he is a bust or a late bloomer, he still has value as a starter, backup and even a trade candidate. The Lions would be wise to keep him at least one more year in the event of an injury or if he finally reaches his potential.

Joe Dahl

One of the few players on the Lions that people have got really excited about. He can play anywhere on the entire offensive line. The left guard spot is within his grasp if he can turn some heads in camp.

TJ Lang

Newcomer and player who might end up being the best offensive lineman overall. Having played for division rival Green Bay Packers is helpful in terms of game planning against them. Once he fully heals from hip surgery, the pass protection and run blocking is instantly upgraded with him as the starting right guard.

OUT

I only see one depth player as a serious contender to earn a spot. Despite the efforts of a few, expect none of those players to be taken seriously.

Leo Koloamatangi

Impressing coaches and fans will get you somewhere if you’re an undrafted free agent. However, the rookie from Hawaii is better off on the practice squad, despite his solid efforts. He hasn’t outplayed anyone to the point where he leap-frogs his way on the roster.

Matt Rotheram

Since going undrafted in 2015, he has no experience in regular season action. Although capable of playing right tackle/guard, he cannot do it at the NFL level.

Next: Best case, worst case for three key positions

Brandon Thomas

This flower might have caught frostbite before he could blossom. Injuries have kept him from seeing the field, and at his age (26), his window of opportunity is closing quickly.

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