The Detroit Lions are currently regarded as having the best offensive line in the NFL in 2024, but the unit’s future could face uncertainty in 2025 depending on the status of veteran guard Kevin Zeitler.
Zeitler was signed by the Lions during the past offseason to replace Jonah Jackson, who left in free agency to join the Los Angeles Rams. Jackson’s massive contract has turned into a disaster for the Rams. After returning from an injury, Jackson started just one game before being benched and hasn’t seen the field since.
The Lions’ decision to let Jackson walk and sign Zeitler has proven to be a smart move. Zeitler has been an upgrade and has ensured the offensive line has maintained its high level of performance.
However, Zeitler will be a free agent next offseason. At 35 years old, even if the Lions bring him back for another year, he is unlikely to be a long-term solution for Detroit’s offensive line.
With this in mind, ESPN’s Field Yates has projected the Lions to select 6-foot-4, 308-pound Ohio State guard Donovan Jackson with the 32nd overall pick in his recent mock draft.
“The Lions seek out tough and selfless players. Jackson fits that bill,” Yates explained. “He is one of the better guards in college football, but he kicked to left tackle to replace Simmons for Ohio State this season, playing more than 50% of his snaps out of position. The willingness to play a new position speaks volumes for his draft stock, and he would help Detroit as it eyes the future on the interior offensive line. The Lions’ starting guards are currently 32 (Graham Glasgow) and 34 (Kevin Zeitler) years old.”
The Lions already have two potential long-term options on their roster in 2024 draft picks Christian Mahogany and Giovanni Manu. While Manu was initially projected as a tackle, he has hinted at his ability to play guard.
The challenge is that neither Mahogany nor Manu has had much opportunity to prove themselves. Mahogany has played just three snaps this season, and Manu hasn’t played at all. If the Lions remain unsure about their ability to fill the guard position internally, drafting someone like Donovan Jackson could be a logical choice.
That said, Jackson may require development time. As Thorn noted in his scouting report, Jackson could be considered somewhat of a project, so the Lions would be wise to have an experienced option available as an insurance policy if they draft him.
Given the circumstances, it’s likely the Lions will bring Zeitler back for another season, which would provide the team with time to groom a successor, whether it’s Jackson or another player.
