Detroit Lions Seek O-Line Reinforcements in Free Agency

Top Guard and Center Targets to Bolster the Offensive Line

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:44pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting the fragmented and overlapping geometric shapes of a football offensive line, symbolizing the complexity of rebuilding the Detroit Lions' interior offensive line.The Detroit Lions' offensive line rebuild is a complex puzzle, requiring strategic free agent acquisitions to restore the team's former glory.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Lions face a critical offseason to rebuild their offensive line, with the retirement of veteran center Frank Ragnow leaving a significant void. The focus is on finding the best free agent guards and centers to solidify the interior of the line and restore the team's former glory.

Why it matters

The Lions' offensive line struggles have been well-documented, and with Ragnow's departure, the team must act decisively to address this crucial position group. Strengthening the interior line is key to providing better protection for the quarterback and opening up running lanes for the offense.

The details

The Lions have a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent on the interior line, including guards Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, Myles Frazier, and Juice Scruggs, as well as center/guard Michael Niese and versatile player Colby Sorsdal. However, the team must find a suitable replacement for Ragnow at center. Top free agent options include Tyler Linderbaum, who could command a lucrative contract, and Connor McGovern, who offers versatility at a lower cost.

  • Frank Ragnow announced his retirement in March 2026.
  • The 2024 NFL free agency period begins on March 13, 2024.

The players

Tyler Linderbaum

A highly touted center prospect who is expected to command a four-year, $80 million contract.

Connor McGovern

A veteran center/guard who could be a more affordable option for the Lions, with experience at multiple interior line positions.

Christian Mahogany

A young guard currently under contract with the Lions, part of the team's promising interior line group.

Frank Ragnow

The Lions' veteran center who recently announced his retirement, leaving a significant void on the offensive line.

Graham Glasgow

A former Lions guard who departed the team in free agency, further weakening the interior of the offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“We must address the offensive line this offseason to give our offense the best chance to succeed.”

— Dan Campbell, Head Coach, Detroit Lions

“Losing Frank Ragnow is a huge blow, but we're confident we can find the right pieces to rebuild the interior of our line.”

— Brad Holmes, General Manager, Detroit Lions

What’s next

The Lions will need to make a decision on whether to pursue the high-priced Tyler Linderbaum or opt for a more affordable option like Connor McGovern at center. The team will also evaluate the guard market, with veterans like Joel Bitonio and Kevin Zeitler potentially providing stability and experience.

The takeaway

The Detroit Lions' offensive line rebuild is a critical priority this offseason, as the team looks to replace the retired Frank Ragnow and address the overall weaknesses in the interior of the line. The team's success in free agency will be a key factor in determining the trajectory of the offense and the franchise's future.