The Detroit Lions found themselves navigating a tricky offseason when veteran left tackle Taylor Decker requested his release. Unlike last year's surprise retirement of center Frank Ragnow, Decker's situation was resolved in advance, allowing the Lions to strategize their next move. With a gap to fill on the offensive line, former Green Bay Packers tackle Rasheed Walker was a prime target.
Early in free agency, the Lions snapped up former Miami Dolphins OT Larry Borom. But with backup Dan Skipper also retiring, there was still room for another offensive tackle. However, Walker chose to sign with the Carolina Panthers on a one-year deal worth up to $10 million, a surprising bargain compared to the anticipated $20 million per year.
It's a deal that raises eyebrows, especially considering the Lions' needs. Adding Walker alongside Borom could have solidified the tackle position while leaving room to draft and develop future talent. Though the Lions have other priorities, particularly on defense, Walker's contract seemed too good to miss.
Why revisit Walker's deal? The key lies in the "up to" $10 million figure.
The base salary is actually $4 million, with incentives potentially boosting it to $10 million. This makes the Panthers' move a savvy one, orchestrated by Dan Morgan and Brandt Tillis.
The Lions, meanwhile, agreed to a one-year, $5 million deal with Borom. While Walker's incentives could be straightforward, Borom's current salary is higher. Given the Lions' need at tackle after Decker's exit, missing out on Walker's deal might sting, as they seemingly had the financial means to secure the top tackle available.
Borom is expected to step in as a starter. It's possible Walker wasn't interested in joining a division rival or didn't fit the Lions' vision.
Walker's experience is solely at left tackle, where Decker played all 986 snaps last season. With Decker gone, Penei Sewell is poised to shift to left tackle, offering Jared Goff top-tier protection.
Borom, who played 664 snaps at right tackle last season, showed marked improvement in pass blocking, ranking fifth among tackles from Week 5 to Week 18, according to Pro Football Focus. The Lions seem to be banking on his potential, Sewell's shift, and the possibility of drafting another tackle.
Ultimately, while Walker is now with the Panthers, the Lions' decision may hinge on how well Borom performs and if Sewell's transition is seamless. Only time will tell if passing on Walker was the right call.