The Detroit Lions are making strategic moves to bolster their offensive line, addressing depth concerns with the signing of veteran tackle Larry Borom. With Taylor Decker's release and Dan Skipper's retirement, the Lions needed to act, and Borom's arrival marks a significant step.
Larry Borom, a Detroit native and Brother Rice High School alum, returns home after a stint with the Miami Dolphins where he started 11 games at right tackle. His performance was a mixed bag, with a solid pass-blocking grade of 67.1 but a less impressive run-blocking grade of 54.4, ranking 67th out of 79 qualified tackles according to Pro Football Focus.
Borom's versatility is a key asset for the Lions. Over his first four seasons with the Chicago Bears, he demonstrated his ability to play every offensive line position except center, starting 27 games in total. This adaptability is precisely what the Lions need, especially with the uncertainty surrounding their current depth.
The Lions have faced challenges with injuries on the offensive line, and the lack of experienced backups has been a glaring issue. Giovanni Manu, a 2024 third-round pick, remains a project, and a significant knee injury has stalled his development. The Lions' decision to sign Borom suggests they are not counting on Manu to fill the gap.
Al Karsten from Pride of Detroit highlighted Borom as a strong fit for the Lions, noting his improvement as the season progressed. From Week 6 onward, Borom was PFF's 35th-highest graded offensive tackle, outperforming several notable players, including Taylor Decker.
Borom is expected to serve as the primary backup at both tackle positions and an emergency option at guard. While he isn't slated to start at right tackle, his presence provides a safety net. If a rookie isn't ready to take on the starting role, Borom can step in, ensuring stability on the line.
Overall, Borom's signing is a savvy move for the Lions, bringing in a versatile, experienced player who can offer immediate support and depth across the offensive line.