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Detroit Lions: How to replace veteran offensive guard T.J. Lang

By Brenden Armour

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 20: Rodger Saffold #76 of the Los Angeles Rams looks on prior to the NFC Championship game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 20, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 20: Rodger Saffold #76 of the Los Angeles Rams looks on prior to the NFC Championship game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 20, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

On Roster Replacement: Tyrell Crosby

There’s only one viable option on the roster right now to replace Lang, and that’s second year offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby. While the Lions do not currently view Crosby as a guard, but rather as a tackle, they may have no choice but to see what he can do depending on how they replace Lang through free agency and/or the 2019 NFL Draft.

Crosby did not play much last year, only filling in occasionally whenever starting tackles Taylor Decker or Rick Wagner would get injured, playing in 10 games and starting two. However, during his time on the field he showed that he can be a dependable option for the Lions’ offensive line.

During his time on the field he was never flagged for any penalties, and played well overall in both pass blocking and run protection. From Pro Football Focus (PFF), a company that watches film and gives grades each week and at the end of each season, graded Tyrell Crosby out at an above average grade of 70.0 for the season. For comparison, Lang graded out at an above average 72.0 for last season.

While Crosby is widely considered an offensive tackle throughout the Lions’ organization, he could provide value as an offensive guard as well. It would be foolish of the Lions to not at least test him at right guard if they do not pick up any sure fire starters through free agency or in the draft.

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