The Detroit Lions will be making additions to improve their roster for 2025, and between free agency and the draft, there figures to be a crop of new players coming in to improve depth.
One of the spots that the Lions could focus on is the offensive line. Veteran Kevin Zeitler is a free agent, and may price his way out of Detroit. If that happens, there could be a ready-made SEC solution for the franchise in the draft.
Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon analyzed every team's missing piece this offseason. In Detroit, it wasn't a free agent or trade piece on the offensive side of the ball, but rather, guard Tyler Booker from Alabama.
"Kevin Zeitler could be done in Detroit, but even if not, the veteran guard is about to turn 35. The Lions should try to land the best guard in the draft, Tyler Booker from Alabama."
Booker is a massive prospect who has the prototypical NFL build and length. While the Lions also like 2024 rookie Christian Mahogany, Booker could slot in next to Mahogany and keep the interior of Detroit's line elite well into the future. It would be a smart move for the Lions, who understand how important a strong offensive line is to their identity.
Offensive line should be major focus for Detroit Lions early during the 2025 NFL Draft
Given Myles Garrett is sticking with the Cleveland Browns, it doesn't seem likely the Lions will need to deal their first-round pick to acquire an elite player this offseason. With that in mind, what is the best plan for the Lions? It could involve staying at pick No. 28 and selecting the best player.
Defensively, the Lions selected a pair of cornerbacks last offseason in Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw. They could prioritize a veteran addition to the backfield in free agency. Along the line, the Lions could certainly draft a young pass rusher or tackle, but having experienced pieces will be most important for a Super Bowl push.
The best course of action could be keeping the offensive line strong with an addition to develop for the future, which means a name like Booker could represent the best move for the Lions. Detroit has the luxury of being solid at most of the skill positions, so selecting the next elite lineman looks like the smartest move the franchise could make.
Detroit's last first-round SEC offensive lineman was none other than center Frank Ragnow, so if they return to that well again this offseason, it could be to their overwhelming benefit.