As the 2026 NFL Draft comes to an end, the Detroit Lions drafted Blake Miller in the first round to address their offensive needs. However, a former Lions player is being linked to their conference's rivals which could potentially shake things up.

Chicago Bears' reporter Mike Pendleton listed the team's potential targets in free agency on April 26. While he named several players which could fill in at the left tackle position, the recently-released Lions OT Taylor Decker seems to top the list.

“Theo Benedet, Braxton Jones, and Jedrick Willis are all expected to compete. None of the aforementioned names bring a high-level of comfort and confidence, so insert Taylor Decker,” Pendleton wrote.

The suggestion arises from when Decker used to play under Bears' HC Ben Johnson in Detroit. Decker provides the Bears adaptability since he has already played under Johnson's offensive schemes.

Pendleton highlights he could be a vital replacement for LT Ozzy Trapilo. Decker proved to be a vital piece for the Lions' last season, allowing three sacks and four penalties.

However, Decker's exit with the Lions did not end on good terms. He announced his departure with the Lions on March 9, after the front office requested him to take a pay cut amid contract negotiations.

Despite the sour farewell, Decker is against the idea that he would play for Lions' NFC North Rivals, the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears. Lions' reporter Justin Rogers reported that Decker felt Johnson's move to be 'dirty.'

“I will tell you that he’s pretty anti-playing for the Bears and Packers. That’s the Lions background. I know Ben Johnson did it and that was the right situation for him, but Taylor feels kinda dirty about the idea. It just isn’t interesting to him,” Rogers stated.

Despite the ongoing situation, Decker is officially a free agent and looks forward to try his luck in the free agency.

Taylor Decker Faces Uncertain Free Agency After Lions Exit

Decker is seen as a short-term option by many teams. His experience is valued, but there are concerns about how much he has left physically after last season. Earlier this month, NFL analyst Gregg Rosenthal shared a similar view.

“Decker appeared diminished physically at times last year and couldn’t work out a new deal with the Lions when they presumably asked him to take a pay cut,” Rosenthal wrote. “There are warning signs, but he fits the profile as a solid one-year option at a thin position.”

The report indicates teams could still sign Decker, but likely on a one-year deal. He may not get the long-term contract he was hoping for when he entered free agency.

Since Detroit has moved forward with its roster plans, Decker is still searching for a place where he can continue playing and prove he has more to give.

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Rishab Nandi