The Detroit Lions’ offensive line has been a dominant force in the NFL during the 2024 season, but they face a potential challenge in the near future regarding their guard position. Veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, who has been a crucial part of the line since joining the team, is set to become a free agent in 2025 and will be 35 years old by then. Zeitler has been a valuable signing for the Lions, outperforming Jonah Jackson, who has struggled with the Los Angeles Rams after securing a far more expensive contract than Zeitler’s.
Although Zeitler has been effective, his future with Detroit is uncertain due to his age and looming free agency. With Zeitler turning 35 in 2025, the Lions could be considering potential replacements for the veteran guard. Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder predicts that the Lions might look to add Robert Jones, a 26-year-old guard from the Miami Dolphins, should Zeitler and/or fellow guard Graham Glasgow depart in the near future.
Glasgow, who will turn 33 in the summer, has two years left on his contract but has experienced a dip in performance this season. His Pro Football Focus grade has fallen to slightly below average, contributing to the uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. This situation creates a need for the Lions to possibly explore options in free agency, with Jones emerging as a potential target.
Jones has been a solid player for the Dolphins throughout his career, and his age makes him an appealing option for the Lions. While Jones is still developing, his consistency could provide Detroit with a long-term solution at guard if they part ways with Zeitler or Glasgow. However, it’s important to note that Jones’ numbers don’t quite match Zeitler’s in terms of overall performance, with Jones allowing more pressures and having slightly lower grades from Pro Football Focus.
If the Lions believe Zeitler can continue to perform at a high level, they may opt to re-sign him rather than pursue Jones or another guard in free agency. Zeitler’s leadership and consistency have been significant assets for the team, and bringing him back could be a priority for the Lions if they feel he can still contribute effectively.
While Glasgow’s performance has dipped this season, it’s unlikely the Lions will make a drastic move to cut him in 2025. His decline has been noticeable, but not enough to justify an immediate departure. The Lions may give him another year or two to see if he can return to his previous form before making any final decisions.
An interesting development for Detroit is the emergence of 2024 sixth-round pick Christian Mahogany. The rookie guard made a strong impression when he started in place of an injured Glasgow in Week 16, performing well beyond expectations. With Mahogany showing promise, the Lions may have a viable internal option, reducing the need to look outside the organization for a starting-caliber guard in the near future.
