The Detroit Lions have already made a number of adjustments during the 2026 offseason. One of the more unexpected steps was Detroit releasing left tackle Taylor Decker. Fortunately, Lions supporters do not have to worry about Decker donning up for an NFC North foe.
Lions writer Justin Rogers described why the veteran lineman does not want to play for the Bears or Packers in 2026.
“He wants to play for a winner. However, he is wondering if it is inexpensive to go win someplace else after investing so much emotional and physical effort into one franchise, according to Lions Collective podcast on April 2. “I will tell you that he is quite opposed to playing for the Bears or Packers. That’s the Lions background in him. I know Ben Johnson did it, and it was the appropriate decision for him, but Taylor feels uncomfortable with the concept. It simply does not pique his curiosity. I could see him joining a team mid-season, as he moves away from football and games are played, injuries occur, and the correct opportunity presents itself. I could see him not playing as well. ”
The Lions selected Decker with the 16th overall choice in the 2016 NFL Draft. He has been the team’s blindside blocker ever since. However, Detroit considered him expendable this summer, particularly with Penei Sewell possibly switching to left tackle.
According to reports, Decker wants to retire as a Lion.
“Taylor Decker wants to be recognized as a Lion, to the point where he wants back in the fold,” Rogers explained. “Wherever this season may take him, whether he plays for someone else or not, he wants to return here, sign the one-day contract, and retire a Lion. “
It would be appropriate for Decker to retire as a Lion. Even if he ends up playing for another club in 2026.
