Lions fill Taylor Decker-Shaped hole with 313-lb prospect in latest mock draft
DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 23: Detroit Lions Offensive Tackle Taylor Decker 68 walks off at halftime during the game between New York Giants and Detroit Lions on November 23, 2025 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI /CSM Detroit United States - ZUMAc04_ 20251123_zma_c04_467 Copyright: xAllanxDranbergx
DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 23: Detroit Lions Offensive Tackle Taylor Decker 68 walks off at halftime during the game between New York Giants and Detroit Lions on November 23, 2025 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI /CSM Detroit United States - ZUMAc04_ 20251123_zma_c04_467 Copyright: xAllanxDranbergx
The Detroit Lions have big shoes to fill in the offseason.
They released left tackle Taylor Decker after failed negotiations. To fill his shoes, The Athletic’s latest mock draft suggests Utah Utes offensive tackle Caleb Lomu could take up that position.
Standing at 6’6’’ and weighing in at 313 pounds, the athletic prospect has made a name for himself for his footwork and technique. He has good pass blocking and could start at left tackle.
However, reports estimate that he can improve further on his run blocking.
Lomu could be a more long-term investment for the Lions, with a little bit of refinement. The prospect recorded a 4.99-second 40-yard dash and a 32.5-inch vertical jump at the Combine.
In his 2025 season at Utah, he started at left tackle in 12 games, allowing just eight pressures and zero sacks. Scouts report that he can offer strong pass protection and can be a valuable blindside protector.
The Lions, however, have already brought in free agent offensive tackle Larry Borom of the Miami Dolphins as a replacement. He has signed a one-year, $5 million contract. In his 2025 season, he started in 11 games, allowing 2 sacks.
With the veteran Taylor Decker exiting the Lions in a shocking move, getting a good replacement will be crucial for the Lions to keep their offense strong.
Failed negotiations led to Taylor Decker’s shocking exit
It came as a surprise when long-time veteran Taylor Decker’s release was announced.
Reports suggest that the Lions had negotiated on Decker’s guaranteed pay, since he had suffered a shoulder injury. Decker and the Lions were unable to agree, leading to his release.
Decker, a former first-round pick in 2016, has spent 10 years with the Detroit Lions and has been a cornerstone of the Lions' offense. He has started all 140 games and is one of the most consistent and durable players in the Lions squad.
He earlier signed a three-year, $60 million contract in 2024. Decker, despite earlier posting on his social media that he is going to return for an 11th season, has now requested to be released.
Without the veteran, the left tackle position sure looks empty for the Lions. While Larry Borom can be a good option, they should be looking to add a rookie with long-term potential in the upcoming draft.
The Athletic seems to think Caleb Lomu should be that pick. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
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Written by
Shyam Hari
Edited by
Kalp Thaker