One team that clearly has a type in the NFL Draft is the Detroit Lions. That type: tough, physical, no-nonsense players with a mean streak. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson is a prime example, one of the top defensive linemen in the league when healthy. Linebacker Jack Campbell is another; he’s already piled up 226 tackles in his first two seasons. This year, the Lions added another player cut from the same cloth: Georgia offensive guard Tate Ratledge.
A gritty leader with pro-ready traits
Ratledge is a perfect fit for Detroit’s identity. He’s a relentless mauler who plays with serious toughness and finishes every block through the whistle. NFL.com even called him a “dirt-dog,” which is exactly the kind of mindset head coach Dan Campbell values. But it’s not just attitude. Ratledge brings proven leadership, having served as a team captain at Georgia.
On the field, he checks every box the Lions value. A two-time All-American in 2023 and 2024, Ratledge was elite in pass protection throughout his college career. Over five seasons, he allowed just two sacks. In 2023, his 87.4 pass-blocking grade ranked third among Power Five guards. He also ranked third in pressure rate allowed at 1.3 percent and in pass-blocking grade on true pass sets at 83.8, according to Pro Football Focus. His high football IQ shows in this area in how easily he picks up blitzes and handles stunts.
Detroit Selects Georgia OL Tate Ratledge 57th Overall
— PFF College (@PFF_College) April 26, 2025
🦁 87.9 Pass Block Grade Since 2022 (4th Among Guards) pic.twitter.com/hcwAdQsUPy
He’s just as effective in the run game. What sets him apart is his versatility. He’s played in both zone and gap schemes, which is rare in college. That’s a huge bonus for Detroit, which The Athletic identified as having the most diverse run scheme in the NFL. Add in his mobility, with the ability to consistently reach the second level, and you’ve got a complete run blocker ready to contribute right away.
So why did Ratledge slide to pick No. 25 in the 2025 NFL Draft, behind four other guards? Injuries, plain and simple. Despite being the offensive guard, I stood on the table for heading into the season, his medical history gave teams pause. He missed four games in 2024 with an ankle injury and 20 total in college, including a season-ending foot injury in 2021. He also tends to play with a high pad level, which limits his leverage and power at times.
Still, Ratledge is built to make an immediate impact in Detroit. He’s expected to win the starting right guard job over Graham Glasgow and should hold that spot long-term. If he stays healthy and improves his pad level, a Pro Bowl future is absolutely in reach.