Rumors are continuing to build around former Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker potentially signing with the Chicago Bears as the 2026 NFL offseason progresses.

With NFL free agency entering its second month, multiple analysts have connected the veteran offensive lineman to Chicago. The latest is Bradley Locker of Pro Football Focus, who recently described the Bears as the “ideal landing spot” for Decker.

Locker highlighted that while Decker posted a 67.9 overall grade in 2025—his lowest since 2017—he remained dependable in pass protection. The veteran allowed just three quarterback hits and two sacks across 525 pass-blocking opportunities. His pass-blocking efficiency rating has also never fallen below 96.0, underscoring his long-standing reliability protecting the quarterback.

Bears Linked to Decker Due to Familiar Coaching Connection

A potential reunion with Ben Johnson is one of the biggest reasons the Bears have been mentioned as a possible destination.

Johnson, the former Lions offensive coordinator, is entering his second season as head coach of the Chicago Bears in 2026. He worked closely with Decker during his tenure in Detroit from 2022 to 2024.

According to Mike Pendleton of USA Today’s Bears Wire, Chicago could still be searching for stability at left tackle. Pendleton noted that players such as Braxton Jones, Theo Benedet, and Jedrick Wills Jr. are expected to compete for the starting role while rookie Ozzy Trapilo recovers from a ruptured patella tendon suffered during the playoffs.

Because of that uncertainty, Decker—who already knows Johnson’s offensive system—could represent a reliable short-term upgrade for Chicago’s offensive line.

Decker’s Decade-Long Career With the Lions

Decker spent 10 seasons with the Detroit Lions after being selected with the No. 16 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

During his time in Detroit, he started 140 games at left tackle and became a cornerstone of the team’s offensive line. His best recent season came in 2024 when he earned his first Pro Bowl selection.

Earlier this offseason, Decker requested his release from the Lions on March 6, and the team granted that request three days later, making the veteran tackle a free agent.

Lions Turn to Penei Sewell and Blake Miller to Replace Decker

The Lions have already made several moves to replace Decker along the offensive line.

All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell is expected to move from right tackle to left tackle beginning in 2026. Lions general manager Brad Holmes confirmed the switch after the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Detroit also used the No. 17 overall pick in the draft to select Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller, who is projected to start at right tackle.

In addition, the team signed veteran lineman Larry Borom during the offseason. Borom is now expected to serve as a swing tackle after the Miller selection.

Other tackles currently on the Lions’ offseason roster include Giovanni Manu, Devin Cochran, and Mason Miller.

With Sewell and Miller projected to anchor the edges of the offensive line, Detroit appears well positioned at tackle. However, many Lions fans would still find it difficult to see Decker line up in the navy and orange of the division-rival Bears if the veteran ultimately signs in Chicago.