The Detroit Lions boasted one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses in 2024, balancing a strong passing attack with a dominant rushing game behind a well-constructed offensive line.
However, the team now faces a major challenge after losing a key member of that unit to free agency. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, veteran guard Kevin Zeitler has departed after one season in Detroit, signing a one-year, $9 million contract with the Tennessee Titans.
With Zeitler gone, the Lions are left searching for a clear replacement at right guard. One potential solution could be sixth-round draft pick Christian Mahogany, who stepped in as a starter late in the season.
Zeitler originally joined the Lions on a one-year deal and was a consistent presence on the offensive line, starting 16 games before a hamstring injury sidelined him for the divisional-round playoff loss to the Washington Commanders. In his absence, Mahogany stepped up and started in that game, just as he had in Week 16 against the Chicago Bears when Graham Glasgow was injured.
Head coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence in Mahogany, acknowledging that he had earned his shot at a starting role. However, Campbell also noted that the team had a backup plan if Mahogany struggled, with Kayode Awosika also in the mix for the job.
“Yeah, we thought that was a good showing by (Mahogany) and it’s worthy of – if it goes there – to give him a shot,” Campbell said via USA Today’s Lions Wire. “But then there again, we have (Kayode Awosika) Yode as well. He’s played snaps, played playoff snaps for us and we trust him as well. So, we feel like we’re in good hands.”
Mahogany faced challenges early in his rookie season, missing training camp due to mononucleosis and starting the year on the nonfootball illness list. He was activated to the 53-man roster in October and appeared in seven games, making one start.
Despite Mahogany’s potential, the Lions are expected to seek additional reinforcements at guard. NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah predicted in February that the team would look to address the interior offensive line in the 2025 NFL Draft, potentially selecting a long-term replacement for Zeitler.
Jeremiah projected the Lions would draft Ohio State guard Donovan Jackson in the first round, believing he could step in as a Day 1 starter.
“Jackson would be a perfect replacement for Kevin Zeitler if the veteran departs in free agency,” Jeremiah wrote.
Fellow NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks echoed that sentiment, highlighting Jackson’s toughness and physical style as a perfect fit for Detroit’s offensive line.
“General manager Brad Holmes’ master plan involves collecting bullies on the offensive line,” Brooks wrote. “Jackson is a Day 1 starter with the nasty attitude and physical game to fit right in with the Lions’ dominant front.”
As the Lions aim to maintain their offensive dominance—after leading the league in scoring in 2024—they will need to solidify their offensive line. With a powerful ground game led by Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery and quarterback Jared Goff orchestrating a high-powered passing attack, keeping the offensive line strong will be crucial for continued success.
