5 Detroit Lions starters who may not be back in 2019

T.J. Lang, Right Guard

Age: 31
Height/Weight: 6-4, 315
Years in NFL: 10
Games started in 2018: 6
2018 PFF Stats: 4 pressures, 3 hurries, 1 sack allowed, 0 penalties
2018 Salary: $10.7 million
2019 Status: Under contract for $11.5 million

Analysis: The writing seems to be on the wall for the two-time Pro Bowler in Detroit. T.J. Lang has struggled with various injuries during his two-year stint with the Lions. He played in just six games last season as a neck injury landed him on Injured Reserve.

In 2017, Lang earned himself a Pro Bowl nod despite only playing in 13 games. When he’s been on the field, the veteran guard has played well although his absence hasn’t helped the offensive line build any sort of chemistry since his arrival.

With a salary of $11.5 million in 2019 left on Lang’s current deal, I’d expect the Lions to try and find a younger, cheaper option if possible. If they can’t, Detroit might have no other choice than to let the 31-year old play out his contract.