During the NFL Combine, Lions general manager Brad Holmes hinted at an interest in an Arizona Cardinals free agent while reviewing game film from Detroit’s Week 3 game. While Holmes didn’t reveal which player he was scouting, Detroit’s recent signing of former Cardinals defensive tackle Roy Lopez suggests the team was evaluating multiple Arizona players.
Hernandez missed most of the 2024 season with a knee injury, appearing in only five games. However, before his injury, he recorded the highest overall and run-blocking grades of his career from Pro Football Focus. In his first two seasons with Arizona, he consistently ranked among the top 30 guards in the league. Although he has primarily played right guard recently, Hernandez has experience on both sides of the offensive line.
If his medical evaluations are positive and his recovery is on track, Hernandez could be an affordable addition for the Lions. Another Arizona lineman, Trystan Colon, who stepped in for Hernandez last season and earned a top-20 PFF grade, is also a potential target.
2. Shaq Mason
The Houston Texans struggled with offensive line consistency last season, leading to some surprising moves, including the release of 31-year-old Shaq Mason. Mason posted the lowest overall PFF grade of his career in 2024, yet he still ranked No. 47 among all guards and finished inside the top 40 in pass protection.
Mason has spent most of his career at right guard, but his experience and versatility make him a solid short-term option for Detroit. He could serve as a stopgap replacement for Zeitler or provide insurance in case Mahogany isn’t ready for a full-time role.
3. Teven Jenkins
The Chicago Bears have overhauled their interior offensive line, leaving Teven Jenkins—PFF’s 14th-ranked guard last season—available in free agency. Initially drafted as a tackle, Jenkins shifted to right guard for two seasons before moving to left guard in 2024, where he had his strongest season as a pro.
Jenkins’ market value may dictate his availability, as he is one of the top offensive linemen in free agency and remains young at 27. If the Lions are willing to make a long-term investment, Jenkins could be a perfect fit. Detroit is already familiar with his playing style from NFC North matchups, and his strengths align well with the team’s run-heavy offensive scheme.
4. Mekhi Becton
After battling injuries early in his career, Mekhi Becton rejuvenated his career in 2024 with the Philadelphia Eagles by transitioning to guard. Although early reports suggested he preferred staying in Philadelphia, ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently hinted that the Eagles are preparing for his departure in free agency.
With the Cincinnati Bengals reportedly out of the race, Detroit has an opportunity to sign Becton. The Lions boast one of the league’s top offensive lines and a highly regarded offensive line coach, which could be an appealing situation for the former first-round pick. If the Lions seek an athletic, high-upside option, Becton could be a great addition.
5. Brandon Scherff
While Brandon Scherff is no longer the dominant force who made five Pro Bowls in seven seasons with Washington, he remains a steady, experienced option. Over the past three years with the Jacksonville Jaguars, he started every game and maintained strong pass protection. His PFF pass-blocking grades of 78.7 and 74.5 over the past two seasons demonstrate that he still provides effective protection against interior pressure.
For a team like Detroit, which depends on quarterback Jared Goff’s pocket efficiency, reducing interior pressure is a priority. Given Goff’s struggles against inside pass rushers, securing a reliable veteran at guard is essential, and Scherff could be a short-term solution at age 33.
Final Thoughts
Losing Zeitler is a big blow for the Lions, as he was one of the league’s best guards last season. While Detroit has some internal options, the team may turn to free agency to reinforce its offensive line before the 2025 season. Whether they target a younger, long-term option like Teven Jenkins or a veteran like Scherff, the Lions have several strong candidates to consider.
With free agency still in motion, it remains unclear how Detroit will address its offensive line needs, but finding a high-quality replacement for Zeitler will be key to sustaining the team’s offensive success.
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