Former Lions defensive lineman sees the grit in both Lions’ new guards and big things for them in the future
After practicing against Ragnow and company for years, how does feel about Ratledge and Mahogany?
The biggest losses for the Detroit Lions this offseason were Frank Ragnow’s retirement and Kevin Zeitler’s leaving for the Titans. Because of that, the Lions have two new guards this year in rookie Tate Ratledge and second-year man Christian Mahogany. We’ve been hearing a lot of good things about both. On Thursday, Dan Campbell got everyone a little excited when he literally knocked on wood and said this:
“I thought Tate Ratledge looked like a starting NFL guard yesterday, and it fired me up.”
It’s cool to hear that type of praise from the coaches, but what about defensive linemen who don’t play for the Lions? There was a perfect one in the house on Wednesday and Thursday, and he’s actually pretty used to going up against the guys who used to be here. That’s Dolphins defensive tackle Benito Jones, who spent two seasons with the Lions (2022-23).
We caught up with Jones on Thursday and asked him about what he was seeing in the Lions’ new interior linemen.
“You know, that’s a great group of young guys. They’re still playing hard, you know, (Graham) Glasgow going to center, Frank gone. We could tell they’re still competitive. The offensive line coach, he’s a great guy. He got the guys going in a good direction,” Jones said. “. . . I mean, the both guards, they both gritty. I know that’s what they like. So I’m pretty sure they’re gonna be some great guys when they complete in this league.”
That’s some high praise from the veteran defensive lineman. He’s gone up against some of the best in the league. In my eyes, Ratledge (I’ll knock on wood, too) looks every bit of what Jones and Campbell were saying about him. He looks like a player who’s been in this league for more than just a minute. The same goes for Mahogany. He’s making more and more strides each day. The coaching staff was right to move Ratledge back to right guard and put Glasgow at center. It’s a much better setup, and Jared Goff probably feels more comfortable with Glasgow there, too.
Detroit Lions News
Detroit Lions Training Camp Observations Joint Practice with Dolphins Day 2: Second-year player had himself a day, there’s a big problem that needs to get fixed
Another good day, but not as lopsided as Wednesday
