Detroit Lions' stalwart left tackle, Taylor Decker, has officially declared his intent to return for the 2026 season. This announcement, shared via his Instagram, brings a sigh of relief to Lions fans and management alike.
Decker, now 31, has been a cornerstone for Detroit throughout his career, experiencing both the franchise's struggles in the late 2010s and their recent resurgence. Despite battling upper body injuries last season, which impacted his effectiveness alongside fellow lineman Penei Sewell, Decker is set to embark on his 11th season with the team.
The timing of Decker's announcement is noteworthy, coming shortly after Lions' General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell made cryptic remarks about his future. Holmes had expressed a desire for clarity before the league year kicked off, and Decker delivered just that.
With Decker's return, the Lions' draft strategy might see a shift. The 2026 draft class isn't overflowing with left tackle talent, but names like Caleb Lomu, Kadyn Proctor, and Monroe Freeling are still worth watching. However, with Decker back in the fold, Detroit might hold off on drafting a tackle early.
There's still some uncertainty regarding depth behind Decker. Giovanni Manu isn't quite ready to step into a backup role, so the Lions might still seek a promising prospect to groom under Decker's tutelage for the 2027 season.
As free agency looms, the Lions can now explore adding depth at left tackle with more affordable options. This strategic move allows them to potentially allocate more resources towards other pressing needs, such as center and pass rusher, which remain priorities for the upcoming season.
While Decker's future beyond 2026 may hinge on his health, his return solidifies a key position for the Lions, providing stability and protection for quarterback Jared Goff's blind side.