As the Detroit Lions set their sights on a historic first Super Bowl appearance, one player stands out as both their most important and best asset: right tackle Penei Sewell. Since being selected seventh overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Sewell has evolved into a cornerstone of the franchise, anchoring an offensive line that has propelled the Lions into championship contention.
In the 2023 season, Sewell distinguished himself as the only offensive tackle in the NFL to allow fewer than 20 pressures over more than 500 pass-blocking snaps. He surrendered just one sack throughout the season, including the playoffs, and committed only seven penalties. His exceptional performance earned him a 92.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), making him the highest-graded offensive tackle in the league.
Sewell’s dominance continued into the 2024 season, where he maintained his status as a top-tier offensive lineman. His consistent excellence in both pass protection and run blocking has been instrumental in the Lions’ offensive success.
Sewell’s impact extends beyond individual accolades; he is the linchpin of an offensive line that includes fellow standouts like center Frank Ragnow and left tackle Taylor Decker. This formidable trio has provided quarterback Jared Goff with exceptional protection and created running lanes for the Lions’ ground game. Sewell’s ability to neutralize elite edge rushers and his versatility in both run and pass schemes have been critical to the team’s offensive efficiency.
Beyond his on-field prowess, Sewell has emerged as a leader within the Lions’ locker room. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has highlighted Sewell’s growth in technique and fundamentals, as well as his role as a tone-setter for the offense. Sewell’s commitment to excellence and his physical, aggressive play style embody the culture that head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have cultivated in Detroit.
Recognizing his invaluable contributions, the Lions signed Sewell to a four-year, $112 million contract extension in April 2024, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history. The deal, which includes $85 million guaranteed, ensures that Sewell will remain a foundational piece of the franchise through the 2029 season.
Sewell’s dedication to the team’s success is evident in his relentless pursuit of improvement and his desire to bring a Super Bowl title to Detroit. He has expressed a deep alignment with the organization’s values and a commitment to achieving greatness alongside his teammates.
As the Lions aim for their first Super Bowl appearance, Penei Sewell stands as the team’s most important and best player. His exceptional performance, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the franchise have been instrumental in Detroit’s resurgence. With Sewell anchoring the offensive line, the Lions are well-positioned to make a deep postseason run and potentially secure their place in NFL history.
