The Detroit Lions HC Dan Campbell was looking for offensive linemen when one of the best OLs in NFL history, center Frank Ragnow, retired after 2025. His quest for excellence ended with two players: drafting guard Tate Ratledge in the 2nd round (57th overall) and making offensive guard Christian Mahogany a starter. Just seven games into the 2025 season, Ratledge and Mahogany have already exceeded the expectations for HC Campbell. But for rookie Ratledge, this level of performance was exactly what he was drafted to deliver.

“Since game one, that’s been the expectation. There are no excuses to not come out here and perform. That’s been my expectation for myself since I started playing,” Ratledge said while choosing the Week 3 game against the Baltimore Ravens as his best game this season. “Baltimore, just the way we ran the ball, that’s one you take pride in as an offensive lineman.”

The 6-foot-6, 315-pound rookie has taken 100% offensive snaps in all 7 games as a starter. According to Pro Football Focus, his overall grade is 68.0, ranking 20th among 78 guards. His pass blocking could be better (45.9), but he’s been strong in the run game, posting a 71.7 grade, 12th-best among guards.

Overall, in 7 games, the Lions’ offensive line has protected Goff well at times. From Week 2 to 4, they did not allow the defense to sack Dan Campbell’s QB. In week 6, they allowed only 1 sack. The Lions signal caller has been sacked 4 times in each of the other 3 games.

Mahogany and Ratledge now rank 16th and 17th among all NFL guards. With Dallas rookie Tyler Booker in the top spot, they are 2nd and 3rd among guards drafted in the past two years.

“I wouldn’t say excuses, but there’s really no more time to waste. We’ve got more games under our belt, and that’s what it is,” Mahogany said about his 2025 season.

While Mahogany started only one game last season, he has also had an increased responsibility this season. The second-year guard has also taken 100% of offensive snaps while starting all 7 games. This season, he’s earned a 68.3 overall grade, with a 54.7 pass block score and a 72.9 run block grade. Between them, they’ve allowed only two sacks each and drawn just three penalties total.

The rookie has worked on his knowledge of the playbook, which has helped him perform well. Mahogany, on the other hand, has worked on the communication with other linemen. That has helped the team remain in playoff contention with a 5-2 win-loss record.

Dan Campbell puts veteran duties on young players

When the Lions entered the season, they had doubts about their strength. But things improved. Dan Campbell has huge expectations of his young players now.

“That’s done. We’re at the halfway point, they’re veterans now,” the coach said, “Both of our guards have improved…There’s a lot to go and they know that. There’s so much room to get better, and I expect them to take another step.”

Their next test is against the 3-4 Vikings, who are dealing with several injuries. The Vikes defensive front features Jonathan Greenard, Jonathan Allen, and Jalen Redmond, all aggressive, high-motor players. And Ratledge knows what’s coming.

“All three are physical, all three are violent, and all three rush the passer well. It’s a challenge we’ve got to handle,” he said.

All in all, they still have a long way to go. A proper assessment could be done after the season is over. The Lions have been a formidable force, but can they go all the way with their young guns?