The Detroit Lions re-signed offensive lineman Kayode Awosika on Friday, keeping another top backup in town. Awosika appeared in 11 games and made two starts for the Lions last season before losing his job as the Lions’ top backup interior lineman to rookie Christian Mahogany.

Mahogany, a sixth-round pick out of Boston College, is in line to start at one guard spot in 2025 after the Lions lost Kevin Zeitler to the Tennessee Titans in free agency. Graham Glasgow, who started 16 games at left guard last season, also is under contract for next season.

The Lions have focused mostly on building depth this offseason, keeping several of their key backups from last year’s 15-2 team and adding just one likely starter – cornerback D.J. Reed – in free agency.

Awosika originally signed with the Lions off the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad in 2022. He played in 10 games, mostly as a backup that season, and made three regular-season starts and another playoff start in 2023.

​The Detroit Lions have re-signed offensive lineman Kayode Awosika, maintaining a key depth player on their roster. Awosika, who was set to become a restricted free agent, has agreed to a new contract with the team. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed. ​

Career Overview

Kayode Awosika began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021. After spending time on the Eagles’ practice squad and making his NFL debut in January 2022, he was signed by the Detroit Lions off Philadelphia’s practice squad in September 2022.

Tenure with the Detroit Lions

Since joining the Lions, Awosika has been a versatile asset on the offensive line. In the 2022 season, he appeared in 10 games, starting two. The following year, he took on the role of primary backup at both guard positions, playing in 18 games and starting four, including the NFC Conference Championship.

In the 2024 season, Awosika started as the top reserve guard, participating in 11 games with two starts. However, his playing time decreased mid-season as rookie Christian Mahogany returned from illness and moved ahead on the depth chart.

​Impact of Re-signing

Retaining Awosika ensures that the Lions maintain experienced depth along their interior offensive line, especially following the departure of starting right guard Kevin Zeitler to the Tennessee Titans in free agency. The competition for starting guard positions in the upcoming season is expected to include Graham Glasgow, Christian Mahogany, Netane Muti, Michael Niese, Kingsley Eguakun, and Awosika.

Looking Ahead

While Awosika’s re-signing bolsters the Lions’ offensive line depth, the team may still seek to add talent through the draft to secure long-term stability. Currently, only Glasgow, Mahogany, and center Frank Ragnow are under contract beyond the upcoming season, highlighting the need for future investments in the offensive line.

In summary, Kayode Awosika’s return to the Detroit Lions provides valuable experience and versatility to the offensive line, positioning him as a key contributor in the team’s pursuit of success in the 2025 season.