Lions Offensive Line Overhaul Casts Doubt on Giovanni Manu's Future

Detroit's struggles on the offensive line could mean the end of Manu's time with the team.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Detroit Lions are facing major questions along their offensive line after a disappointing 2025 season, with key veterans potentially departing and the team needing to rebuild the unit. This instability puts the future of fourth-round pick Giovanni Manu in doubt, as the young lineman has struggled to establish himself and the Lions may look to acquire more experienced talent to help them contend.

Why it matters

The Lions' offensive line was a major weakness last season, contributing to the team missing the playoffs after back-to-back near-misses. With the franchise under pressure to get over the hump and reach the Super Bowl, they are unlikely to rely on an unproven player like Manu if more proven options are available in free agency or the draft.

The details

Manu, a 2024 fourth-round pick, has yet to make a significant impact for the Lions. He missed his entire rookie season and has struggled when given opportunities, allowing two sacks on just 28 pass-blocking snaps. Head coach Dan Campbell has acknowledged Manu needs more practice reps to develop, but the team's urgency to improve the offensive line may mean they move in a different direction this offseason.

  • Manu was selected by the Lions in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
  • Manu did not participate in any games during his rookie 2024 season.
  • Manu made his first career start against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 5 of the 2025 season, but a knee injury ended his year prematurely.

The players

Giovanni Manu

A fourth-round draft pick of the Detroit Lions in 2024 who has struggled to establish himself on the team's offensive line.

Dan Campbell

The head coach of the Detroit Lions, who has acknowledged Manu needs more practice reps to develop.

Kevin Zeitler

A former offensive lineman for the Lions who left the team in free agency.

Frank Ragnow

A former offensive lineman for the Lions who abruptly retired.

Taylor Decker

A veteran offensive lineman for the Lions who is considering retirement.

Graham Glasgow

A veteran offensive lineman for the Lions who could be released.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think for Gio, he needs reps. Practice reps, get out there against our defense...in real-time practice. It's not a ton of them, and it's not like training camp. But God, he just needs reps, man.”

— Dan Campbell, Head Coach (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

The Lions will need to make decisions on the futures of veteran offensive linemen Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow this offseason, which could further impact Manu's chances of securing a significant role.

The takeaway

The Lions' offensive line struggles and need for immediate improvement may spell the end of Giovanni Manu's time with the team, as the franchise is unlikely to rely on an unproven player if they can acquire more experienced talent to help them reach the Super Bowl.