Detroit Lions Add Ben Bartch to Boost Offensive Line Competition The Detroit Lions have signed veteran guard Ben Bartch to increase competition for starting offensive line positions this spring. The move comes as part of the team’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen its offensive line following a playoff-less season for the first time since 2022. Bartch, a 27-year-old guard, joins the team after a free-agent visit last week and is expected to challenge for a starting role this fall. Bartch, a fourth-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, started two games at left guard for the San Francisco 49ers last season before missing time with a high ankle sprain. He has been a part-time starter throughout his six NFL seasons, with 11 starts at right guard for the Jaguars in 2021. His college career was spent at Saint John’s University in Minnesota, where he played Division III football. Bartch also spent parts of the past two seasons on injured reserve, which has limited his playing time. The Lions have made several moves to reshape their offensive line this offseason. They released veteran players Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow, both of whom were key contributors in previous seasons. In free agency, the team signed Cade Mays and Larry Borom, while acquiring Juice Scruggs through a trade. Additionally, they have retained Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, and Penei Sewell as starters. Sewell, a three-time All-Pro, could transition from right to left tackle to replace Decker, while Ratledge is likely to remain at right guard. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized the importance of adding competition to the roster during the offseason. After the 2025 season, he stated his intent to bring in players who would push existing talent to perform at a higher level.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #jacksonville_jaguars #ben_bartch #christian_mahogany
