Lions Add Pair of Offensive Linemen Ahead of Free Agency

Medical reports on Juice Scruggs and Seth McLaughlin's injury histories ahead of 2026 season

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Detroit Lions have made a couple of offseason additions to their offensive line, signing guard/center Juice Scruggs and center Seth McLaughlin. However, both players have concerning injury histories that the team will need to monitor closely as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.

Why it matters

The Lions' offensive line was a weak spot in 2025, so these additions are important to shore up depth and potentially find a new starting center. But the medical issues of both players could limit their availability and effectiveness, which would be a setback for the team's offseason plans.

The details

Scruggs, 26, has a history of back issues stemming from an L3 spine injury, which could be an ongoing concern. He also dealt with a foot injury in 2024 and a hamstring issue in 2023. McLaughlin, 25, is recovering from a serious Achilles injury suffered 16 months ago, and the Lions will need to see how he progresses in live action before determining if he can challenge for the starting center job.

  • Scruggs was acquired by the Lions in a trade with the Texans in 2025.
  • McLaughlin signed a futures contract with the Lions in January 2026.

The players

Juice Scruggs

A 26-year-old offensive guard/center who was acquired by the Lions in a trade with the Texans. He has a history of back, foot, and hamstring injuries that could be a concern going forward.

Seth McLaughlin

A 25-year-old center who signed a futures contract with the Lions in January 2026. He is recovering from a serious Achilles injury suffered 16 months ago, and the team will need to evaluate his progress in live action.

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What they’re saying

“Any injury to the lumbar spine is no small matter.”

— Jimmy Liao, Medical Analyst (JimmyLiaoMD.com)

“The lack of any live action means you just don't know for sure.”

— Jimmy Liao, Medical Analyst (JimmyLiaoMD.com)

What’s next

The Lions will need to closely monitor Scruggs and McLaughlin's progress during the offseason and preseason to determine if they can be counted on as reliable backups or potential starters for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Lions have taken steps to address their offensive line depth, but the medical histories of their new additions could pose challenges. The team will need to carefully manage these players' recoveries and availability to ensure they can contribute effectively in 2026.