With the strategic signing of guard Netane Muti to a futures contract, the Detroit Lions have underscored their dedication to enhancing their offensive line—a crucial move signaling their intent to develop a potent and dynamic offensive force for the upcoming season and beyond.
Muti, distinguished by his exceptional strength and agility, presents more than just a sixth-round draft pick; he represents a potential game-changer in the trenches.
This acquisition is a clear step by the Lions to amplify their quarterback protection and run-blocking proficiency, indicating the team is not only braced for the imminent battles on the gridiron but is strategically shoring up its ranks for enduring success in the NFL.
Lions Add Depth with New Offensive Lineman Netane Muti
On Tuesday, it was disclosed that the Detroit Lions have fortified their roster by adding former Las Vegas Raiders offensive lineman Netane Muti through a futures contract. Upon concluding the season within the Raiders’ practice cadre and not being extended a futures contract, Muti transitioned to the open market as a free agent, readily available for acquisition.
At just 24, and originally drafted as a sixth-rounder by the Denver Broncos in 2020, Muti has participated in 20 NFL games and initiated starts in four as a guard—half on the left side and half on the right. His brief stint with the Broncos ended when the Raiders claimed him for their squad in late 2022, a tenure marked by intervals of active roster and practice squad transitions.
Muti’s formidable size at 6-foot-3 and 307 pounds made him a significant contributor to Fresno State’s run game in college, notably assisting in achieving an average of 155.0 ground yards per game in 2017. Despite this, his college years suffered setbacks due to Achilles tendon injuries that cut both his 2016 and 2018 seasons short.
The Detroit Lions odds could see a favorable turn with Muti’s robust run-blocking prowess, assuming his professional play remains unhampered by past afflictions.
Assessing the Lions’ Guard Position Faced with Free Agency Decisions
Heading into the 2024 offseason, the Lions face uncertainty at guard, as Graham Glasgow, Jonah Jackson, and Halapoulivaati Vaitai are all approaching unrestricted free agency. While there’s interest from the team to potentially retain Glasgow, and previous discussions have taken place regarding Jackson’s return, the lineup for starting guards remains in flux.
Nonetheless, the Lions seem intent on strengthening the depth on their bench. Prior commitments to Michael Niese and Matt Farniok through futures contracts indicate this strategy, with Kayode Awosika also expected to rejoin under an exclusive rights free agent deal. Such additions to the roster mean that come April’s offseason workouts, Muti will face stiff competition for a spot on the team.
The Lions have, to date, secured futures contracts for a total of 13 players, which include running backs Jermar Jefferson and Jake Funk, wide receivers Tom Kennedy, Maurice Alexander, and Daurice Fountain, offensive tackle Connor Galvin, guards Matt Farniok and Michael Niese, defensive tackle Chris Smith, edge rusher Mitchell Agude, cornerback Craig James, and safety Brandon Joseph.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Netane Muti is more than just a routine roster expansion for the Detroit Lions—it’s a strategic move laden with potential. By locking in Muti and other future contract players, the Lions are setting the stage for a competitive preseason where every player will have to earn their stripes.
Fans will be watching closely as Muti battles to translate his collegiate success and overcome his injury history to secure a slot on the final roster. No doubt, the steadfast building and reshaping of the offensive line is a critical element in the Lions’ blueprint for success in the seasons ahead.
