The Detroit Lions are making a strong case as the best team in football, with Dan Campbell’s squad boasting a 12-1 record and holding the NFC’s No. 1 seed through Week 14.
The Lions have set a franchise record with 11 consecutive wins following a 1-1 start and capped off their streak with an impressive divisional victory over the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football in Week 14.
Detroit’s offense continues to thrive under its offensive coordinator, thanks largely to the exceptional play of the offensive line. Hank Fraley’s unit is one of the most dominant in the league, excelling in protecting quarterback Jared Goff and opening running lanes for David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs.
While all five members of Detroit’s formidable offensive line have played at a high level, starting right guard Kevin Zeitler has been particularly impactful yet underappreciated.
The 34-year-old signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Lions during the 2024 offseason and has proven to be one of the best bargain signings of the year, teaming up with right tackle Penei Sewell to create a dominant right side.
Despite being underrated, Zeitler is finally starting to earn national attention. Tyler Brooke of The 33rd Team predicts the veteran will be selected as a first-team All-Pro for the first time in his career.
Although Zeitler has allowed four sacks this season, his overall performance has been elite. The former first-round pick has given up just 13 total quarterback pressures on 405 pass-blocking snaps and is arguably the best run-blocking guard in the league, earning an 88.5 run-blocking grade.
After losing their 2023 starting right guard, Jonah Jackson, to the Los Angeles Rams in free agency—where he signed a three-year, $51 million deal—general manager Brad Holmes acted swiftly by signing Zeitler to a team-friendly contract. The move has paid off immensely, as Zeitler has anchored the interior offensive line alongside center Frank Ragnow and left guard Graham Glasgow, playing at an All-Pro level.
