The Detroit Lions now have a major decision at left tackle after releasing Taylor Decker. With a key spot on the offensive line open, the team must decide whether to promote someone from the roster or bring in outside help before the season.

After Graham Glasgow’s and David Montgomery’s release, the Lions are all in for drafting their replacements. As Juice Scruggs, the Lions are eying Jedrick Wills in place of Decker. This event created a significant gap in the Lions' roster, which they were not expecting.

As reported by Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, offensive lineman Taylor Decker announced via Instagram that he is parting ways with the Lions.

With the reason that both parties were not able to find “common grounds,” ultimately making Decker ask for release and the Lions granted. Taylor joined the Lions in 2016, the pro bowl in 2024 who spent his entire career with the Detroit Lions. 

26 years old, offensive tackle, Jedrik Wills Jr. has played 30 games with four total tackles. Last time he played for the Browns in 2024 before his knee injury. Jedrick Wills has struggled as a run blocker and has also been flagged often, picking up 32 penalties in 58 career games. 

Detroit could likely sign him to a cheaper one-year deal, but that move would not fully solve the problem, especially with Giovanni Manu potentially one play away from starting again. 

As mentioned by senior writer Daniel Popper. The Lions may instead target Rasheed Walker in free agency, though that could be expensive, or turn to the NFL Draft for a young lineman they can develop under a four-year rookie contract.

Either way, replacing Taylor Decker will not be easy, and Detroit will need to explore every option in the coming weeks.

Where Taylor Decker stands in the Free Agent class

Since his release, Taylor Decker has already raised many eyes, he is slotted as a top 15 overall player in the free agent class. Taylor Decker is the more reliable tackle compared to Rasheed Walker. He is stronger in both run blocking and pass protection, with cleaner technique and better consistency. 

Walker can struggle against power rushers, especially when defenders attack his anchor. Decker, on the other hand, plays with a solid base and strong hands, and his experience shows in how he reads and mirrors pass rushers.

He will not fit every system, but for teams needing a short-term starting left tackle, Decker is a dependable option.

With Taylor Decker gone, the Lions must find their next left tackle. Who should step in next?

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu