Detroit’s offensive line play was all over the map in the 2019 season. From injuries — every regular starter missed at least one game — to an unusual guard rotation to inconsistent performances, the line struggled at times but also turned in some very impressive outings.
No player epitomized the feast-or-famine nature of the Lions offensive line in 2019 more than left guard Joe Dahl. His season splits highlight why it was so difficult for the Lions offense to stay in a sustained groove, and also why the Lions made significant changes to the line in the offseason.
Dahl was one of the very best blockers in the entire NFL regardless of position in the first quarters of games last season. Only two players, All-Pros Ronnie Stanley and Quenton Nelson, graded out higher in pass protection from Pro Football Focus, than Dahl did in the first quarter in 2019.
Dahl’s pass protection grade for the entire season came in at just 73.0 in PFF’s metrics. He ranked 30th in pass blocking efficiency amongst guards who played at least 50 percent of snaps.
Entering training camp, Dahl remains penciled in as the starting left guard. He will face competition from third-round rookie Jonah Jackson, free agent Josh Garnett and perhaps others as new OL coach Hank Fraley looks for a winning combination. If Dahl can harness how well he played in first quarters a year ago, the job is his and the Lions will be better for it.
