Detroit Lions rookie lineman Miles Frazier has hit a wall before he’s even made it to the practice field this offseason, with head coach Dan Campbell informing reporters that Frazier may not return until at least October due to a knee issue.
Campbell offered every injury update he could during Tuesday’s media session, with Frazier’s news coming after someone asked if the rookie was on track for training camp. That confirms Frazier will miss both camp and preseason action.
This is a critical time for NFL rookies to earn their roles, with players like Tate Ratledge and Isaac TeSlaa expected to get valuable preseason reps at center and red zone wideout, respectively.
Meanwhile, other rookies like Ahmed Hassanein, Tyleik Williams, Dan Jackson, and Dominic Lovett will be able to prove themselves in the coming weeks, while Frazier remains out with an injury that wasn’t even flagged during the draft.
Given Detroit’s current need for offensive line help — especially interior depth — losing Frazier for camp hurts. He was considered one of the Lions’ safest picks after making 50 collegiate starts at LSU and Florida International.
As of now, the team’s depth at guard features Christian Mahogany, Graham Glasgow, Trystan Colon, Kayode Awosika, and Kingsley Eguakun. Glasgow, typically a center, is expected to shift back to guard with Ratledge seemingly taking that role.
Colon is in the same situation, but his value has risen significantly — he’ll also get reps at guard due to Ratledge’s switch.
Frazier finds himself in a difficult position. He may have to stay on the bench and wait for a chance in-season to prove he’s more than a depth piece. Otherwise, he’s in danger of being cut or moved to the practice squad.
