Detroit Lions: T.J. Lang’s release creates another need
The Detroit Lions have decided to release offensive guard T. J. Lang. But how will the Motor City replace the two-time Pro Bowler along their line?
Since taking over as general manager of the Detroit Lions in 2016, the offensive line has been a major focus for Bob Quinn. His first draft selection for the Motor City was Ohio State offensive tackle Taylor Decker. A year later, Quinn brought in two high-priced free agents in right guard T.J. Lang and right tackle Rick Wagner.
And just last April, Quinn and the Lions’ front office used another first-round selection on their offensive line, this time choosing Arkansas center Frank Ragnow with the 20th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Now it appears offensive line could once again be on the forefront of the Lions’ needs heading into 2019. On Friday, Detroit announced that it is moving on from Lang, releasing the 31-year old. The veteran lineman missed a total of 13 games in a two-year span due to injuries. But Lang also played well enough to be elected to his second-consecutive Pro Bowl in 2017.
By releasing Lang, the Lions save just a hair under $9 million on their salary cap. Those are monies that can be used to address other areas of need when the free agency market opens up next week. But his departure also leaves several question marks as to how Detroit will choose to fill his void.
The short-term solution appears to be Kenny Wiggins, as the 30-year old veteran started in 10 games in replacement of Lang last season. There is also the possibility either Ragnow or versatile center Graham Glasgow could switch over to right guard, giving the Lions a lot of flexibility on how they approach filling the void. Former 2016 fifth round selection Joe Dahl is an option at guard as well.
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The Detroit Lions have made a point of addressing their offensive line with some major investments in the recent past. That philosophy hasn’t changed, so the Lions could easily look to free agency or high in the draft to find T.J. Lang’s replacement as well.