The Detroit Lions Should Sign Kevin Zeitler for the 2024 Season.
With the loss of starting left guard Jonah Jackson to the Los Angeles Rams, the Detroit Lions are looking for a suitable replacement to retain the strength of their offensive line. While the Lions have made several noteworthy signings in free agency, there is a significant vacancy at left guard that must be filled before the 2024 season begins.
A Critical Vacancy
Currently, the Lions have Colby Sorsdal and Kayode Awosika as potential options for the left guard spot, but neither seems to be the ideal choice for a starting role. Given this situation, it’s highly likely that Lions GM Brad Holmes will make a move to sign a free-agent guard before the start of the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Ideal Candidate: Kevin Zeitler
In my opinion, the Lions should target Pro Bowl guard Kevin Zeitler, formerly of the Baltimore Ravens. Zeitler, who entered the NFL as the No. 27 overall pick in the 2012 draft with the Cincinnati Bengals, has consistently been one of the league’s top offensive linemen. His recognition as a Pro Bowl guard last season was long overdue. According to Pro Football Focus, Zeitler was the NFL’s second-highest-graded pass-blocking guard in 2023, allowing just 21 pressures throughout the year.
Bottom Line: Strengthening the Offensive Line
Signing Kevin Zeitler would not only provide an immediate boost to the Lions’ offensive line, but it would also add a wealth of experience and consistency to the unit. His skill set and performance precisely match the Lions’ requirements, making him an excellent fit for the team. Furthermore, I believe that Brad Holmes will attempt to strengthen the interior offensive line in the 2024 NFL Draft, most likely targeting a bright prospect in the first three rounds. Securing a proven talent like Zeitler should be a major objective in the Lions’ offseason plan to provide stronger protection for quarterback Jared Goff and improve the team’s overall offensive ability.
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