Lions’ overlooked weak spot could force Brad Holmes to make a move

The Detroit Lions haven't shown any signs of disappointment with their roster ahead of training camp, but eventually, decisions will be made as practices play out and the preseason begins.

If there's one spot most analysts believe needs an upgrade, it's the edge rusher position. Detroit, however, is happy to get back an elite Aidan Hutchinson and likes the potential that other depth players provide. That doesn't leave them as desperate for a move at the spot.

Instead of focusing on that position, many believe the offensive line needs another upgrade ahead of the season, specifically the interior. Indeed, Bleacher Report's Matt Holder named that the area Brad Holmes must target for a trade:

"While an edge-rusher might seem like the obvious move here, too, Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport will be back this season. Also, Za'Darius Smith has expressed interest in returning to the Lions even after being a salary-cap casualty this offseason."

"Meanwhile, Detroit surprisingly lost longtime starting center Frank Ragnow this summer to retirement. That leaves the offense with some question marks on the interior offensive line, and swinging a deal for a veteran would be a smart move for an expected Super Bowl contender."

Even though the Lions are developing Christian Mahogany, drafted Tate Ratledge and Miles Frazier, and signed veteran Trystan Colon, that might not be enough to fortify a once-elite line in 2025. Ratledge, in fact, has yet to sign his rookie contract and may not start camp in Detroit.

With all of this in mind, the Lions could need an extra roster move up front very soon, even if a major trade isn't firmly on their radar just yet.

Multiple free agent guards remain that could help Lions in 2025

Trades can be hard to execute before training camp roster battles shake out. If the Lions were to make an addition up front now, it would likely have to come via free agency in the form of a veteran guard who could take pressure off young players.

While Detroit has a key piece in Graham Glasgow, who can be part of the equation at center or guard, starting both him and Colon might not be in the best interest for Detroit. Instead, the Lions may need to look for a more decorated guard with some NFL accolades.

The top two players available are Brandon Scherff and Shaq Mason. Scherff is a five-time Pro Bowler as well as a first-team All-Pro in 2020. Mason has 146 starts and a pair of Super Bowl titles to his credit. Though both are over 30, either could hold down the fort up front adequately.

Additionally, Will Hernandez is available, a player with 91 career starts at guard in the NFL. At 29, he represents the youngest potential option for the Lions who still maintains experience. Any of these free agents could give the Lions the boost they need without having to pay draft capital.

While many continue to focus on the defensive line, the finely trained eye should remain fixed on the offensive interior. If the Lions make any major trade, some believe it needs to come at that spot for insurance.