The Detroit Lions could be facing a major decision along their offensive line this offseason, as ESPN projects longtime left tackle Taylor Decker may be released if he does not retire from the NFL.
Following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, Decker openly acknowledged that retirement is a real possibility. However, according to ESPN insider Aaron Schatz, the Lions may not wait for Decker to make that call if he chooses to continue playing.
ESPN: Lions Likely to Move On From Taylor Decker
In a recent ESPN analysis, Schatz predicted that Detroit would cut Decker outright if he elects to return in 2026, citing age, injuries, and declining performance.
“The Lions will cut left tackle Taylor Decker if he does not retire,” Schatz wrote. “He will be 33 years old next season and has had issues with shoulder injuries. In 2025, he fell to 45th out of 69 ranked tackles in pass block win rate and ranked 61st in run block win rate.”
Decker, who started 14 of 17 games in 2025, signed a three-year, $60 million extension in 2024. Despite the contract, his on-field efficiency declined, and his health issues required an intense training routine just to remain available.
Taylor Decker’s Emotional Postgame Comments Fuel Retirement Speculation
After Detroit’s season finale against the Chicago Bears, Decker appeared emotional while speaking to reporters, acknowledging that he may have played his final NFL game.
“It’s been really challenging for me mentally, just being in pain all the time and knowing that you have to go out there and play anyway,” Decker said. “I’m not sleeping well. I just need to get away.”
Despite believing he can still play, Decker admitted the physical toll has significantly impacted his mental well-being.
Family and Long-Term Health a Major Factor
Decker emphasized that his decision will go far beyond football, pointing to family and long-term quality of life as critical considerations.
“It’s a massive decision, and it’s not only about me,” Decker said. “It’s about my kids… I want to be able to show up and be the father that I want to be.”
Those comments only added fuel to speculation that either retirement or a Lions release could be imminent.
Lions Preparing for Offensive Line Overhaul
Detroit’s offensive line already took a major hit with the retirement of center Frank Ragnow, and losing Decker would leave another massive hole to fill.
General manager Brad Holmes acknowledged during his season-ending press conference that rebuilding the offensive line remains a top priority.
“Whether it’s the interior or the tackle, that’s something we’re going to have to be urgent about adding to,” Holmes said.
The Lions invested in younger linemen last offseason, but Holmes admitted patience will be required as those players continue to develop.
What’s Next for the Lions?
If Decker retires—or if ESPN’s prediction comes true and he is released—Detroit will enter the offseason needing urgent help at left tackle, potentially through the 2026 NFL Draft or free agency.
For a team with championship aspirations, how the Lions handle Taylor Decker’s future could shape the direction of their offense moving forward.
