Detroit Lions Release Graham Glasgow as Offensive Rebuild Begins

The Detroit Lions have released veteran offensive lineman Graham Glasgow, marking a significant step in the team’s ongoing offensive overhaul. The decision, made on March 2, 2024, creates approximately $5.5 million in salary cap space as the Lions prepare for the upcoming season.

Glasgow, who turned 33 this year, had a varied career with the Lions. After being selected in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft out of Michigan, he spent seven seasons in Detroit. He initially played multiple positions on the line, including center and both guard spots, before signing with the Denver Broncos in 2020. Glasgow returned to the Lions for the 2023 season, primarily playing right guard.

In a heartfelt message shared on X, Glasgow expressed gratitude for his time with the organization and the community. “I’m grateful for the seven years I’ve spent as a Detroit Lion. I love this city and the fans that have supported me for the better part of a decade,” he wrote. Glasgow also reflected on his personal growth during his tenure, stating, “Detroit and being a Lion has had a huge impact on making me into the man that I am today.”

Despite starting 14 games last season, Glasgow faced challenges on the field, including a temporary benching late in the year due to a knee injury. The Lions lost both games he missed against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings, ultimately missing the playoffs for the first time since 2022. He returned to start the Lions’ season-ending victory over the Chicago Bears.

When asked about his future in the NFL, Glasgow stated, “We’ll see,” indicating uncertainty about his next steps. He remains under contract for the upcoming season, pending any changes.

Rebuilding the Offensive Line

The Lions are now looking to strengthen their offensive line as they enter the free-agent negotiating period, which begins on March 9. With Glasgow’s departure, the team is particularly in need of a veteran center after the retirement of Frank Ragnow late last season.

Swing tackle Dan Skipper announced his retirement in January but has since rejoined the team as an offensive assistant. Meanwhile, left tackle Taylor Decker, who was drafted alongside Glasgow in 2016, recently confirmed his return for the 2026 season.

As the Lions evaluate their options, Tyler Linderbaum of the Baltimore Ravens and Connor McGovern of the Buffalo Bills are considered top candidates for the center position. There is also a possibility of moving Tate Ratledge, a second-round pick from Georgia, to center. Ratledge practiced at the position last spring but ultimately played right guard during the season. He credited Glasgow with being a significant mentor during his rookie year, noting, “Anytime I was struggling, that’s the guy that I went to.”

As the Lions navigate this transition phase, the focus will be on building a more resilient offensive line capable of supporting their aspirations for the upcoming NFL season. The move to release Glasgow signals a commitment to reshaping the team’s identity while respecting the contributions of players who have helped shape the franchise’s recent history.