A decade of grit has come to an end in Detroit. The Lions and veteran tackle Taylor Decker are officially parting ways. The move is leaving fans to process an emotional goodbye to one of the team's longest-tenured players.

The Lions announced the news on X (formerly Twitter). In a separate farewell post, they thanked Taylor for his "decade of grit."

Previously, the Lions had signed a three–year, $60 million contract extension with him. As per the deal, the 32-year-old offensive tackle was poised to earn $14.9 million in base salary in 2026 and a $1.5 million roster bonus. However, when the two parties could not reach an agreement, Decker asked to be released from his contract.

Initially, Decker thought of retiring after the 2025 season. Now, he seems to have changed his mind and wants to play his 11th season in the NFL in new team colors.

Decker's departure saves $11.6 million in cap space for the Lions. They also have options in offensive tackle with the likes of Penei Sewell, Gio Manu, and Devin Cochran.

Lions' Fans Feel Shortchanged After Decker's Departure

Many took to social media, commenting under the Lions' X post to show their support for Decker. "From a life long die hard lions fan. Thank you, king. Nothing but LOVE, Deck," read one comment.

One of the Lions' longest-tenured players, Decker had started 140 regular-season games and 5 playoff games. However, he has been suffering from recurring injuries over the past few years, including a shoulder injury that sidelined him for three games last season.

Another user lamented that the Lions could not win a Super Bowl with Decker, "Appreciate [you] big guy @__taylordecker wish we could have won one with you. Thanks for all you did and best of luck in FA!"

However, some were quick to point the finger at Lions' general manager, Brad Holmes.

One user said, "If Brad Holmes isn't fired than I have no idea what the Lions are doing. This guy is a complete dumpster fire and bringing the team down. He has the chance to bring players in and all that is happening is we a losing all our good players."

Decker isn't the only player on his way out. LB Alex Anzalone departed the team as a free agent and so did OT Dan Skipper. The team also traded David Montgomery for a fourth-round pick and an offensive lineman.

Another user wrote, "Sorry Deck, Holmes put you in a situation where you couldn’t finish your career with one team. Holmes has set us back for years to come!"

And some were levelheaded and asked more pertinent questions, "Why did you release him and not trade him? He could have gotten you a 3rd or 4th rd pick."

It remains to be seen where Decker lands. Where do you think you would love to see him play?

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Sayantan Gayen

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar