With training camps opening around the league, football is officially back. The Green Bay Packers' quest to win the NFC North will once again be tested in what might be the best division in football.
The biggest threat to Green Bay, more than likely, is the Detroit Lions. However, the vibes have not all been good this offseason over in the Motor City. In fact, head coach Dan Campbell has his eyes on one area, above all, that could wind up leading to the team's demise.
“My eyes are on the O-line," Campbell recently told reporters at Lions training camp. "I want to see what that unit’s going to do and what’s going to come out of that.”
The Lions' offensive line is going to look different than last year, and the Lions are hoping three player, in particular, can coem through.
The Packers' NFC North hopes might hinge on the Lions' offensive line
We know the Lions still have their firepower in Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery and Jameson Williams. But, that offensive line is the big question.
At tackle, Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker are obvious cornerstones. Yet, when you look on the interior, there are major question marks.
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Detroit is likely starting a rookie at center after Frank Ragnow's retirement. Tate Ratledge is a promising player, but all the pressure is on him, as a rookie, to be the smartest man on that offensive line.
At guard, Christian Mahogany is going to be starting full-time, now. In limited time last year, he played very well. However, will that translate to an entire season of starting, or was it a flash in the pan?
Lastly, you have Graham Glasgow who underperformed last season. Will the Lions see him come back to his old self? In 2024, he gave up 36 pressures, nine hits and four quarterback sacks. Per Pro Football Focus gave him an overall grade of just 57.9, and that simply won't cut it.
Meanwhile, Jeff Hafley continues to receive praise for his ascending defense and has worked his way into being a head coaching candidate in the near future. Can Hafley's defense overtake an inexperienced starting five, up front, in Detroit?