Three interior offensive linemen the Detroit Lions could target in 2024 NFL Draft

As the Detroit Lions prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, a point of emphasis seems likely to be strengthening the depth of their offensive line and building plan for the future at some spots. The first round at pick No. 29 is a possibility to take an offensive lineman, more likely an interior lineman than a tackle.

Using Pro Football Focus' prospect rankings, here are three interior offensive lineman who could be on the Lions' draft radar.

1, Trevor Keegan, Guard, Michigan

Keegan was a three-year starter at left guard for Michigan. He possesses good size (6-foot-5, 310 pounds), with high marks for his makeup and demeanor along with lots of experience in big games (three straight trips to the College Football Playoff) as he goes to next level.

Keegan's primary issue is in pass protection, despite a strong PFF grade there last year (80.7), with a mix of technique and physical shortcomings prevalent in evaluations.

On Day 3 of the draft, if they haven't taken a guard by then, Keegan could be just the kind of player (experience, intangibles) the Lions will have higher on their remaining draft board than other teams will.

2. Cooper Beebe, Guard, Kansas State

Beebe was a consistent performer over four years at Kansas State, starting his career a right tackle before becoming a legit NFL prospect at left guard over his last two seasons (top-12 overall grade among guards from PFF in both seasons).

As could be expected of a guard, Beebe has shorter arms and evaluations point to that potentially being an issue at the next level. His wide frame and instincts make it difficult to beat him in any capacity, despite his perceived shortcomings, and at the combine he posted solid athletic numbers (9.28 Relative Athletic Score).

The Lions have all but eliminated their need to take an immediate starter at guard in the draft, which may take them out of considering Beebe at No. 29. The comp for Beebe, from Lance Zierlein of NFL.com, is interesting though, even if they don't play the same position: new Lions' guard Kevin Zeitler. If Beebe falls to the second round, he could more realistically in play (a trade up?).

3. Beaux Limmer, Center, Arkansas

Limmer played center and both guard spots at Arkansas, starting at right guard (2021 and 2022) and center (2023). He has a wealth of experience playing in the challenging SEC, which led to his impressive performance on the field.

While Limmer has good upper-body strength (39 bench press reps at the combine) and good lower-body flexibility, but he could probably stand to add mass to his frame (6-foot-5, 302 pounds). But he is a strong run blocker, with good range, good instincts and high football IQ.

Limmer does struggle in pass protection, as reflected by his PFF grade there last season (61.5, compared to his 77.6 run blocking grade). The Lions may (should?) be eyeing a succession plan for Frank Ragnow, and Limmer could be that guy while being a versatile interior backup right away.

Keegan, Beebe and Limmer all seem like the kind of player the Lions will like as they survey the landscape of interior offensive line draft prospects. Don't be shocked if one of them is a new Lion at the end of the month.