The Detroit Lions maintain their status as the NFL’s top offensive line in 2024, but there is one area of uncertainty heading into next season, centered around veteran guard Kevin Zeitler.
Zeitler has proven to be a valuable addition since the Lions signed him in free agency, fitting in effortlessly with the current line and outperforming Jonah Jackson, who has struggled with the Los Angeles Rams after signing a much more expensive deal than Zeitler’s.
However, Zeitler will become a free agent in 2025, just as he turns 35 years old. This raises questions about his future with the team. According to Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, if Zeitler and/or fellow guard Graham Glasgow do not return, the Lions may target Miami Dolphins guard Robert Jones as a potential replacement.
Zeitler, nearing 35, and Glasgow, who will turn 33 in the summer and has only two years left on his contract, both face uncertain futures. Glasgow has had a down season, with his Pro Football Focus grade dipping slightly below average as of this weekend.
Thus, Detroit could be in the market for a younger starter during free agency. Jones, who will turn 26 next month, has been a reliable player throughout his career, making him a solid fit for the Lions.
Although Glasgow’s performance has declined from last year, it hasn’t been drastic enough to suggest the Lions will release him in 2025. Therefore, Zeitler remains the key player to watch.
While Jones would likely represent a slight downgrade from Zeitler, it’s worth noting that Jones has allowed one fewer sack than Zeitler (5 to 4), but has conceded six more pressures (23 to 17). His overall Pro Football Focus grades are also not on par with Zeitler’s.
If the Lions believe Zeitler can continue performing at a high level, they will likely bring him back. Should they not retain him, they have 2024 sixth-round pick Christian Mahogany, who impressed in his starting debut in Week 16, stepping in for an injured Glasgow and thriving.
Given Mahogany’s potential, the only scenario in which the Lions might pursue Jones or another starting-caliber guard in 2025 is if they part ways with both of their starting guards in the offseason, a move that seems unlikely.
