Detroit Lions: Roster cuts loom as date approaches

Thin blue line

The offensive line has been a work in progress. Talent was added via the draft and free agency but still seems to be underachieving. The Detroit Lions selected Frank Ragnow, guard-center, in the first round and he has looked the part of a starter since day one.

Tyrell Crosby was taken in the fifth round, and is the new swing tackle, backing up starting left tackle, Taylor Decker. Both spots were huge for the Lions to fill this past offseason.

The current issue is one of depth behind the starting guards and center. Both Graham Glasgow, center, and TJ Lang, right guard, have had some minor injuries this preseason. That has brought the players behind them into focus.

None of the Lions’ backups have looked very good when asked to substitute. Joe Dahl, Wesley Johnson, and Kenny Wiggins have all gotten looks. I wouldn’t rule out Crosby sliding over, or possibly adding another player after cuts are made. Until then, this will be a tight battle for an eighth or ninth lineman roster spot.

Other players vying for a couple of spots include Corey Robinson, Brian Mihalik, Dan Skipper, Leo Koloamatangi, John Montelus, and Jamar McGloster.

Considering that the Detroit Lions only had one player play all 16 games up front (Glasgow), I expect Quinn to continue to make moves to solidify the unit. Both the run game and pass protection need to improve significantly. The Detroit Lions were last in rushing yards and close to the bottom in sacks given up (tied for 7th worst).

Prediction: Decker, Ragnow, Glasgow, Lang, Rick Wagner, Crosby, Robinson, Dahl, and Wiggins all stay.