The Detroit Lions could be in the market for offensive line help during the 2026 offseason, especially at the tackle position.
According to NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah, Detroit is doing its due diligence on the upcoming class of free-agent offensive tackles. That interest may be tied to the uncertain future of veteran left tackle Taylor Decker, who is considering retirement.
While the Lions could address the position in the NFL Draft, general manager Brad Holmes is also expected to explore the veteran market to find a player who can line up opposite All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell.
Below are five offensive tackles who could fit the Lions’ needs in free agency. All contract projections are courtesy of Spotrac.
Rasheed Walker
Projected AAV: $20.3 million
Walker is a familiar name to Lions fans after spending four seasons with the Green Bay Packers. A seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, he has started 48 of his 52 career games and has been a steady presence protecting Jordan Love.
The former Penn State standout is expected to be one of the top tackles on the market. While he allowed five sacks last season, Walker has been largely reliable and would represent a major financial commitment if Detroit decides to pursue a high-end starter.
Jermaine Eluemunor
Projected AAV: $8.7 million
Eluemunor brings versatility and experience after playing for four different teams over nine seasons. He fits the mold of a veteran bridge option similar to Kevin Zeitler’s role for Detroit in 2024.
He allowed four sacks in 2024 and graded better as a pass protector than a run blocker, according to Pro Football Focus. At 31 years old, age is a mild concern, but his durability and affordable price make him a realistic option if Decker retires and the Lions pair him with a young tackle.
Vederian Lowe
Projected AAV: $1.5 million
Lowe is a low-risk, upside play. He was not a full-time starter for New England in 2025, but stepped in when rookie Will Campbell was injured and showed flashes of starting potential.
Detroit could provide an ideal environment for Lowe to compete for a starting job, especially if the Lions draft a tackle as well. With 25 career starts in 46 games, he would bring experience without a significant cap hit.
Braden Smith
Projected AAV: $13.5 million
Smith offers positional flexibility, having played both guard and tackle during his eight seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. Most recently, he served as their starting right tackle.
In 13 starts last season, Smith allowed just one sack and 26 total pressures, per PFF. While his run-blocking grade dipped, he recorded a 90.1 run-blocking grade just two seasons ago. His experience and consistency could make him an ideal veteran addition opposite Sewell.
Larry Borom
Projected AAV: $2.4 million
Borom enters free agency looking for a prove-it opportunity. After four seasons with the Chicago Bears, he spent last year with the Miami Dolphins, appearing in 16 games with 11 starts.
Originally a swing tackle, Borom now needs to show he can handle a long-term starting role. A landing spot like Detroit could maximize his potential and give the Lions an affordable option with upside.
Final Thoughts
With Taylor Decker’s future uncertain, the Lions are expected to explore every avenue to stabilize the offensive line. Whether Detroit targets a high-end starter like Rasheed Walker or a value signing like Vederian Lowe or Larry Borom, adding a veteran tackle could be a priority in the 2026 offseason.
Pairing a free-agent tackle with a draft pick would give the Lions both short-term reliability and long-term security — a smart strategy for a team still pushing toward Super Bowl contention.
