Changing positions on the O-line isn’t as easy as some would make it out to be, but Sewell’s skills and past experience give the Lions confidence that the move won’t diminish the All-Pro’s impact on the offense.
“His talent speaks for itself, and then he has all the intangibles, I mean that’s why he’s rare,” Campbell said. “He’s got all the skills, he’s got all the intangibles, and he works hard, man, he works hard. So he’s versatile, I mean, there’s a lot of positions he could play. I think he could play guard if we want him to play guard. I’ve already told you he can play tight end if you need him to play tight end on some things. He doesn’t have to ask what he’s going to do, he’s a team player.”
The Lions, who drafted Blake Miller in the first round, stuck Sewell at left tackle, and the addition of free agent center Cade Mays should help stabilize a struggling middle of the line. The guard spots are held by 2024 sixth-rounder Christian Mahogany and 2025 second-rounder Tate Ratledge. Both are having up and down seasons, but the hope is that with better support, each can take a step forward in 2026.
“I like those guys. And it’s early, but Cade, man, he’s a cool dude, man,” Campbell said when asked if he’s confident the group will be better than last year’s. “He’s a big man, he’s built right, moves pretty well. And now it’s just getting going with our concepts, the MIKE levels, all that. But I like Cade, man, he’s a good fit for us. He’s a good fit for us. And the same with Larry Borom, man. Moving Sewell over to left, I think about what we’re talking about with young guys or guys in a week or six. whatever it is, I like what Ratledge is going, it’s good so I think a guy who has learned a lot and has grown, so it’s good but yes, we have a lot of competition.
Getting a better linebacker is key to getting the Lions offense back on track after last year’s disappointing season.