The Detroit Lions' rookie class has been nothing short of solid this season. While we haven't gotten enough looks at Isaac TeSlaa to see if his preseason magic can translate into a regular season against starting defenses, we know that linemen Tate Ratledge and Tyleik Williams can hold their own.
Ratledge, specifically, has massively improved from his Week 1 woes against the Green Bay Packers' revitalized defensive line. His run blocking grade continues to rise, with PFF having him sitting at a 71.7 in that stat amongst right guards in the NFL. That's good for 12th overall out of 78 starters.
ESPN's Eric Woodyard, the Lions' beat reporter for the site, wrote after Week 8 that Detroit's best offseason acquisition that has helped to land them at 2nd overall in ESPN's power rankings is the neophyte Ratledge.
"After losing Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow (retirement) and veteran guard Kevin Zeitler (signed with the Titans), the Lions drafted Ratledge in the second round to help navigate those offseason departures. He has started in all seven games at right guard next to All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell, and Detroit hasn't missed a beat with the third-most points per game in the NFL (30.7). Detroit was forced to replace 40% of an offensive line that was on the field for the second-most points and touchdowns of any five-man unit in the NFL last season, per ESPN Research."
Ratledge shining for Lions through 8 weeks of action
Ratledge was thrust into a starting role this offseason, and was being trained at both right guard and center throughout minicamp. The starting center job ended up going to Graham Glasgow, but it's clear that Detroit sees Ratledge as a long-term answer to their hole at that position once Glasgow can't go anymore.
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While his pass protection leaves something to be desired through seven games so far, he has heavily contributed to the success of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery this year. Those two backs have combined for 881 rushing yards headed into Detroit's Week 9 game against the Minnesota Vikings, and much of that success has to do with Ratledge.
In order for the Lions' offense to continue to flourish, they need to hope that Ratledge continues to flourish, as well. His ability to become a more sound pass protector will be key for Jared Goff's success and amount of time he has in the pocket to process what he has available to him down field. Detroit having the best run game in the league is great, but they need a balanced attack to become truly dominant come playoffs.