On September 28, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero revealed that running back David Montgomery and left lineman Taylor Decker of the Detroit Lions would not be available for action in Week 4
Two important offensive players will require the Detroit Lions to make some very costly decisions, and one analyst thinks the team’s seasoned tackle might be the one left out.
Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team said in a mock draft that the Lions may cut tackle Taylor Decker this summer and select one of the best lineman available out of college to take his place.
As Decker approaches the final year of his deal, the Lions will also need to decide on the contracts of quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. Valentino hinted that the organization would cut ties with Decker early in order to avoid taking a significant financial blow.
Lions Could Consider BYU Tackle
Due to Decker’s impending $19 million cap charge, Valentin mentioned that there has already been discussion of the Lions parting ways with him. He also mentioned that the BYU tackle Kingsley Suamataia would be a viable option for the Lions if they choose to select him with the 29th overall choice in the next NFL Draft.
Given his talent, Valentino said, “there’s more buzz around the Detroit Lions replacing Taylor Decker’s huge $19.1 million cap hit than anticipated.”
Kingsley Suamataia needs to be taken into consideration if Detroit wishes to get rid of Decker this summer. As a prospect, Suamataia is similar to Decker in that he typically completes tasks on time and depends on excellent equipment to succeed.
Since joining the Lions as a first-round draft pick in 2016, Decker has been a mainstay of the offensive line, starting 112 games. Although the seasoned tackle has stated that he wants to stay in Detroit, his contract will probably be the deciding factor.
“You obviously want money, but personally, I enjoy being here. I adore being here, Decker said to Kyle Meinke of MLive.com.In the end, do I want to stay here permanently? 100% of the total. We’ll see, then.
