Detroit Lions Secure Veteran Guard Brandon Scherff to Bolster Offensive Line
In a strategic move to reinforce their offensive line, the Detroit Lions have reached an agreement with veteran guard Brandon Scherff on a three-year deal worth up to $30.25 million. This acquisition comes in the wake of right guard Kevin Zeitler’s departure to the Tennessee Titans, leaving a significant gap in the Lions’ offensive front.
Kevin Zeitler, who joined the Lions on a one-year, $6 million contract last season, played a pivotal role in stabilizing the offensive line. His performance was exemplary; he participated in all 16 games and was rated Pro Football Focus’s third-best guard in 2024. Zeitler’s consistent play was instrumental in the Lions’ offensive success, providing quarterback Jared Goff with reliable protection and contributing to the effectiveness of the running game.
However, Zeitler’s tenure with the Lions was short-lived. He recently signed a one-year, $9 million deal with the Tennessee Titans, creating an immediate need for the Lions to find a replacement who could match his experience and skill level.
Enter Brandon Scherff, a former All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler, who brings a wealth of experience and a track record of excellence to Detroit. Scherff, 33, has been a model of consistency over the last three years with the Jacksonville Jaguars, starting all 17 games each season. Notably, he did not allow a single sack in over 1,000 snaps last season, underscoring his prowess in pass protection.
Scherff’s career began as the fifth overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders. Over seven seasons with Washington, he established himself as one of the premier guards in the league before signing with the Jaguars. His durability and high level of play make him an ideal candidate to step into the void left by Zeitler’s departure.
The addition of Scherff is expected to have an immediate positive impact on the Lions’ offensive line. His experience and leadership will be invaluable, particularly for younger linemen like Christian Mahogany and Colby Sorsdal, who are still developing their skills at the professional level. Scherff’s ability to maintain a clean pocket will be crucial for quarterback Jared Goff, who thrives when given ample time to execute plays.
Furthermore, Scherff’s proficiency in run blocking aligns with the Lions’ offensive philosophy, which emphasizes a balanced attack. Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery stand to benefit from Scherff’s presence, potentially leading to an uptick in the team’s rushing yards and overall offensive efficiency.
While the signing of Scherff addresses the immediate need at right guard, the Lions are likely to continue evaluating their offensive line depth. The team has tendered exclusive rights free agents Michael Niese, an interior offensive lineman, and Trevor Nowaske, a linebacker, to maintain depth and competition within the roster.
Additionally, the Lions have re-signed offensive tackle Dan Skipper to a one-year deal. Skipper, who has been part of the Lions roster intermittently since 2017, has become a key player over the past three years, participating in 44 games and starting 11 since 2022. His versatility and experience provide valuable depth at the tackle position.
The Lions may also look to the upcoming NFL Draft to further bolster their offensive line, keeping an eye on versatile linemen who can provide both immediate support and long-term solutions. Prospects who fit the Lions’ criteria of athleticism, size, and intelligence will be on their radar as they aim to build a robust offensive front.
The acquisition of Brandon Scherff signifies the Detroit Lions’ commitment to maintaining a formidable offensive line, even in the face of departures like that of Kevin Zeitler. Scherff’s proven track record and leadership qualities are expected to seamlessly integrate into the Lions’ system, providing stability and enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities. As the Lions continue to make strategic moves this offseason, their focus on building a resilient and effective offensive line remains evident, setting the stage for a competitive 2025 season.
