There will be a new starting right tackle for the Detroit Lions in 2020. Three-year starter Rick Wagner was released on Friday, ending his time with the Lions.
Where will Wagner’s replacement come from? The Lions have some options on which course of action to pursue.
Promote Tyrell Crosby to starter
Crosby is entering his third season in Detroit, and he saw his most extensive playing action late in 2019. Crosby started the final three games and five total on the season.
In his increased sample size, Crosby outplayed Wagner in 2019. Here’s how they stacked up according to Pro Football Focus:
| Run block | Pass block | Overall | |
| Crosby | 64.7 | 62.5 | 62.4 |
| Wagner | 53.9 | 60.2 | 59.0 |
Wagner did play almost twice as many snaps on the season (753 to 397), and Crosby was flagged for seven penalties to Wagner’s three, but the on-field statistics back up the PFF grading. The Lions rushed for 4.9 yards per carry in the final three games, which Crosby started in place of the injured Wagner. For the season the team averaged just 4.1.
Moving Crosby to full-time starter creates an opening for a reserve/swing tackle. That’s a much easier hole to fill than a starting right tackle.