The Detroit Lions have, by virtually everyone’s reckoning, the best offensive line in the NFL. But injuries led to a lot of different starting lineups last season, and aside from Penei Sewell, it’s generally an older group (Taylor Decker, Kevin Zeitler, Graham Glasgow, Frank Ragnow). Ragnow’s litany of injuries last year and ongoing treatment for a toe injury can’t be ignored.

The Lions’ backup offensive lineman had an excellent performance in the second preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs, especially in pass defense. But it was a preseason game, and while they aren’t the only ones in the league, the Lions have issues with depth on their offensive line overall. One reason for that for them is the lack of experience behind the five starters, which is also not uncommon in the league.

During training camp and two preseason games, the Lions had to change the depth of their offensive line due to injuries.

Everyone, regardless of position, who is currently available has some weaknesses (age, injury backlog, etc.), but there may still be opportunities to add a helpful player. Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder pointed to an opportunity for Detroit when evaluating each NFC team’s biggest needs after Week 2 of the preseason and suggested offensive lineman Mason Cole as a player to “add now.”

“The Lions have had a number of injuries to their reserve offensive linemen recently, and rookie Christian Mahogany has been on the NFI list throughout training camp. Both of these things have weakened the unit quite a bit.”

“That’s why it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bring in a veteran like Cole who has experience at all three interior positions, even if it’s just to get through the next few weeks before the regular season starts.”

Cole has started every game at center for the Pittsburgh Steelers over the past two seasons, which is where he has played the most in his six seasons. But he has started games at both guard positions, which further increases his usefulness as a backup interior lineman.

According to Pro Football Focus, Cole had a down year in 2023 (53.2 overall grade). But according to PFF’s overall grade, he was a top-12 center in 2022 (67.1 overall grade) and had a run-blocking grade of 62.9 or better in four consecutive seasons. His pass-blocking grades were generally not as good, with four grades below 50 in his six seasons.

In general, the Lions should look to add some experience to their starting offensive lineman. Cole brings that to the table and it would be no surprise if the Lions had him on their radar heading into the season.