The Detroit Lions had one of the most powerful and explosive running games last season led by the dynamic duo of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, giving opponents fits all season long. The Lions' offensive line helped pave the way for the 'Sonic and Knuckles' nicknamed duo, led by former first round picks Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow among others. Now, Ragnow is retired, which has created a gaping hole in the middle of the offense for o-line coach Hank Fraley and offensive coordinator John Morton to fill.
New Lions Offensive Line Combination Shows Promise at Joint Practice With Miami Dolphins originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Detroit Lions had one of the most powerful and explosive running games last season led by the dynamic duo of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, giving opponents fits all season long.
The Lions' offensive line helped pave the way for the 'Sonic and Knuckles' nicknamed duo, led by former first round picks Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow among others.
Now, Ragnow is retired, which has created a gaping hole in the middle of the offense for o-line coach Hank Fraley and offensive coordinator John Morton to fill.
The Lions responded by adding to the team's depth this offseason in the form of players who have been impressing in practice.
Writer Colton Pouncy took in day two of joint Lions/Dolphins practices and shared his thoughts on Friday, including a take on a new offensive line duo that has been wreaking havoc on Detroit's practice opponents.
"Sewell and (rookie Tate) Ratledge paved the way for explosive runs," Lions writer Colton Pouncy said about the Lions tackle and rookie guard/center out of Georgia, which could be in line to create a powerful one-two punch on the right side of Fraley's unit.
The Lions are expected to start an offensive line of veteran Taylor Decker, rising left guard Christian Mahogany, center Graham Glasgow, Ratledge and Sewell.
The combination lacks the star power of the now-retired four-time Pro Bowler Ragnow, but could still be one of the better offensive lines in the NFL if the unique combination of size, talent, youth and experience comes together under Fraley and Morton's tutelage.
"Power run game was on display," Pouncy added in his notes on the Lions-Dolphins joint practice, leading up to tomorrow's 1 p.m. ET preseason tilt at Ford Field.
The news came as the Lions were projected to target a $13.6 million edge rusher who has reached the eight sack mark in each of the last two seasons. Detroit was dealt concerning Sam LaPorta news.
Training camp hasn't been easy for the Lions so far, but the positive signs are emerging with the regular season just weeks away.
Related: Dan Campbell Brushes off Perceived Rivalry With Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Football
