2025 NFL Mock Draft: Detroit Lions Target Tough ‘Dirtbag’ Guard with 60th Pick!

The Detroit Lions are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, and excitement is building around their No. 60 overall pick. Earlier in our community mock draft, the Lions selected edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College with their first pick. You can check out how the rest of the draft played out in our Community Mock Draft Tracker.

This year, we’ve included a variety of players that fans might want to see join the Lions. A poll was opened to allow the community to vote, and right now, Georgia guard Tate Ratledge is leading with 38% of the votes. Ohio State EDGE Jack Sawyer follows him with about 20%.

Before the voting began, I made my own pick. With the 60th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Lions are set to take… Tate Ratledge, right guard from Georgia.

Who is Tate Ratledge?
Ratledge had a stellar high school career, drawing attention from elite programs like Alabama and Clemson. He kicked off his college journey as a starter but faced setbacks due to a foot injury. Over the next three years, he bounced back, starting 37 more games and establishing himself as a tough, old-school lineman known for his grit.

2024 Highlights:

• Started 10 games (38 total as a right guard)
• Missed four games due to an injury
• An impressive PFF run blocking grade of 74.7
• Strong pass blocking score of 77.3
• Allowed just 7 pressures

Ratledge’s performance earned him an impressive GRIT score of 86.3, indicating a high level of competitive spirit.

Matt Bowen from ESPN praised Ratledge for his intensity on the field, describing him as someone who plays with a fierce demeanor. His tenacity could really make him a culture-setter for the Lions.

Physical Stats:

• Height: 6’6 ½"
• Weight: 308 lbs
• 40-yard dash: 4.97 seconds
• Vertical jump: 32 inches

Analysts believe Ratledge’s size and skill set make him an NFL starter right off the bat. His strengths lie in his powerful run-blocking ability and quick recognition of defensive plays. However, he sometimes struggles with punch timing, which can have him leaning into defenders.

Why Ratledge Fits with the Lions:
His background in Georgia’s system prepares him well for the Lions’ style of play, which includes both gap and zone running concepts. If drafted, Ratledge would compete for a starting spot against players like Graham Glasgow and Christian Mahogany.

In the Community:
Fans are buzzing about Ratledge’s potential impact on the team. His tough playing style resonates well with Lion’s supporters, who appreciate hardworking, blue-collar athletes. Social media shows a trend of fans discussing his fit within the Lions’ strategy, highlighting his ability to adapt quickly and contribute immediately.

Overall, drafting Ratledge could be a game-changer for the Lions, giving them a solid choice at right guard who embodies the toughness and dedication of the team.

To dive deeper into Ratledge’s potential, you can look at sources like Bleacher Report for in-depth scouting reports or explore ESPN for expert analyses.

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