The Detroit Lions remain in the market for a new starting left tackle after granting veteran Taylor Decker his release last week. The decision created a major hole on Detroit’s offensive line heading into the 2026 offseason, forcing the front office to explore multiple options to replace their longtime starter.
Initially, the Lions appeared to be closing in on a potential solution when they hosted former Cleveland Browns tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. for a visit. However, those plans quickly fell apart after the Chicago Bears swooped in and signed Wills to a one-year contract, where he is expected to compete for their starting left tackle job.
Jack Conklin’s Release Could Create Opportunity for Detroit
Despite missing out on Wills, the Lions may have another intriguing option available. Veteran offensive tackle Jack Conklin was released by Cleveland on Thursday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Conklin, a former All-Pro, brings a decade of NFL experience to the table. While injuries have limited him over the past three seasons, his availability could still make him a worthwhile target for Detroit as they search for a short-term solution on the left side of their offensive line.
Lions Facing Limited Left Tackle Options
The current free-agent market for left tackles is relatively thin, leaving Lions general manager Brad Holmes with limited options. Outside of Wills, the most notable names remaining include Rasheed Walker and Decker himself, who is unlikely to return after his release.
Detroit must also be mindful of its salary cap situation. The team still has other roster needs to address, including linebacker, nickel cornerback, and defensive end. Because of that, signing Conklin to a short-term, value-based contract could be a more practical move than committing major money to another free-agent tackle.
Could Jack Conklin Play Left Tackle in Detroit?
Although Conklin has primarily played right tackle in the NFL, he does have experience on the left side from his college days at Michigan State Spartans football. However, his professional career has almost entirely been spent at right tackle.
The last time Conklin played snaps at left tackle in the NFL came during the 2017 season with the Tennessee Titans, when he logged just 27 snaps on the left side compared to more than 1,000 on the right.
Still, the Lions may consider experimenting with the veteran if their current options remain limited. At the moment, young lineman Giovanni Manu represents one of Detroit’s few internal candidates to fill the role.
Conklin’s Recent Performance and Injury Concerns
Health has been the biggest concern surrounding Conklin in recent years. During the 2025 season, the 31-year-old appeared in only eight games due to concussion issues.
When he did play, Conklin posted a 67.1 run-blocking grade, an improvement from his 59.6 grade in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus.
However, his pass protection numbers took a step back. Conklin finished with a 44.8 pass-blocking grade, the lowest mark of his career. He also allowed 24 pressures, four sacks, and committed three penalties during the season.
Despite those struggles, Conklin has built a reputation as a reliable pass protector throughout most of his career. If healthy, he could still provide valuable veteran leadership and depth to Detroit’s offensive line.
Familiarity With Lions Coaching Staff
Another potential factor that could work in Detroit’s favor is Conklin’s familiarity with Lions passing game coordinator Drew Petzing, who previously spent time with the Browns coaching tight ends and quarterbacks.
While Petzing did not directly coach Conklin, his familiarity with Cleveland’s offensive system could help determine whether the veteran lineman would be a good fit in Detroit.
With limited options remaining on the free-agent market, the Lions may need to move quickly. Adding a veteran like Conklin could provide stability as the team works to replace Decker and solidify the offensive line heading into the 2026 season.
