2 days ago
Injuries:
Out for Season: Connor Galvin (knee, IR), Netane Muti (shoulder, IR)
Depth Quality: Poor
Fantasy Impact: Penei Sewell has come along as hoped since falling to the Lions at No. 7 overall in 2021, and the Lions have now proven that if things fall right, this is an O-line unit with No.1 upside. Injuries are the main factor for concern, as Detroit's depth along the offensive trench has been somewhat questionable, but moves to bolster those needs have been made in the offseason. Graham Glasgow has proved a competent replacement for Jonah Jackson at LG. Locking up LT Taylor Decker on a long-term deal provides stability for the future, and with C Frank Ragnow back to full health after a partial pec tear, this O-line is once again contending for the league's top spot.
Trending: Down
Injuries:
Out for Season: Le'Raven Clark (undisclosed, IR)
Depth Quality Good
Fantasy Impact: The Eagles' offensive decline down the stretch of the 2023 season had little to do with the O-line, which was still healthy and playing at a high level. That isn't guaranteed to remain consistent year-to-year anymore, though, with standout C Jason Kelce stepping away and into retirement, and Cam Jurgens now stepping into big shoes. RT Lane Johnson, heading into his age-34 season, is closer to the end than the beginning as well. Jalen Hurts' considerable athleticism will provide some cushion for any protection struggles that should arise, but all no longer looks perfectly steady on the offensive front.
Trending: Steady
Injuries: Jawaan Taylor (knee)
Out for Season: McKade Mettauer (knee, IR)
Depth Quality Excellent
Fantasy Impact: The Chiefs consistently build things right up front, despite a revolving door at left tackle. Orlando Brown was cycled out for Donovan Smith, who now hit free agency to be replaced 2023 third-round pick Wanya Morris. That strategy was good enough for two consecutive Super Bowl wins, in no small part due to the fact that Creed Humphrey is one of the league's best centers, while guards Joe Thuney and Trey Smith have also proven themselves as high-level players. Patrick Mahomes continues to benefit from steady protection. The return of Isaiah Pacheco figures to help bolster Kansas City's running game, and securing a first-round bye allows Jawaan Taylor an extra week to recover from his knee injury.
Trending: Down
Injuries: Tyler Vrabel (personal)
Out for Season:
Depth Quality: (T): Good
Fantasy Impact: The Michael Penix era in Atlanta will, if nothing else, have the benefit of elite protection. The combination of RG Chris Lindstrom and RT Kaleb McGary has provided Atlanta with elite protection on the right side of the offensive line for years. LT Jake Matthews and C Drew Dalman remain reliable as well, and 2023 second-round pick Matthew Bergeron has developed well at LG. Veteran QB Kirk Cousins was severely limited despite playing behind a solid O-line, due to his recovery from an Achilles injury, but while not a true scrambler, Penix boasts far superior mobility and should be able to better make use of his enviable protection.
Trending: Steady