ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions will open the postseason without a main piece of their offensive line.
Starting right guard Kevin Zeitler has been ruled out for Saturday night’s divisional-round showdown against the Washington Commanders. Zeitler suffered a hamstring injury in the Week 18 win over the Minnesota Vikings. The veteran lineman did not practice this week, sticking to treatment and rest.
Dan Campbell didn’t hide his plans in case Zeitler was unable to go, either. The Lions head coach said they will plan to start rookie Christian Mahogany in his place, expressing confidence in Kayode Awosika’s experience as a depth boost.
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If Campbell and the Lions stick to that plan, Mahogany will make his second career start. The last time he started was on the left side in relief of Graham Glasgow back in Week 16 against the Chicago Bears.
Mahogany allowed no sacks and one pressure, looking like a natural in the run-blocking department across 65 snaps. His performance received praise from inside and outside of the building, with Pro Football Focus ranking Mahogany ninth among guards in pass blocking for his showing that week.
“Yeah, we thought that was a good showing by him, and it’s worthy of -- if it goes there -- to give him a shot,” Campbell said Thursday. “But then there again, we have (Awosika) Yode, as well. He’s played snaps, played playoff snaps for us and we trust him as well. So, we feel like we’re in good hands.”
The Lions also ruled out veteran defensive lineman Pat O’Connor due to a calf injury. Rookie cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, who remains in his 21-day return window from injured reserve, is listed as questionable (hamstring/illness).
There is no sight of cornerback Terrion Arnold, running back David Montgomery or left tackle Taylor Decker. Arnold and Montgomery have been full participants all week and will play in the divisional round.
Decker is good to go after missing Wednesday’s practice due to a personal matter. The left tackle was absent as he and his wife welcomed a new child to the world.
The Commanders will be without linebacker Jordan Magee (hamstring). They are also listing linebacker Mykal Walker (illness) and tight end Colson Yankoff (hamstring) as questionable.
Bobby Wagner is good to go after returning to practice to end the week, though, with the veteran linebacker entering the weekend without a designation.
