The Detroit Lions are staring down a pivotal offseason after a frustrating 2025 campaign that fell well short of expectations. With head coach Dan Campbell already signaling that changes are coming, it’s clear the franchise is preparing for a significant retooling as it looks to reset its trajectory.
One potential move drawing attention comes from ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz, who offered a bold offseason prediction for each NFL team. For Detroit, Schatz believes the Lions could cut ties with longtime left tackle Taylor Decker—assuming the veteran does not choose to retire first.
Decker, who will be 33 next season, endured a difficult year marked by lingering shoulder issues. Schatz noted that Decker ranked just 43rd out of 70 tackles in pass block win rate through Week 17 of 2025, while placing 61st in run block win rate—numbers that fall well below his established standard.
While the metrics suggest a decline, context matters. Decker’s performance was clearly impacted by his shoulder injury, which required offseason surgery and constant maintenance during the year. After Detroit’s Week 18 win over the Chicago Bears, Decker revealed he was receiving multiple injections each week simply to stay on the field.
That physical toll has led Decker to openly consider retirement. He acknowledged the strain his condition placed on his family, admitting that continuing to play under those circumstances may not be sustainable moving forward.
If Decker’s time in Detroit is over—whether by release or retirement—the Lions would be left with a massive void on an offensive line that already carries uncertainty. Beyond his on-field contributions, Decker’s leadership and experience would be difficult to replace.
Detroit could theoretically shift All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell to the left side, but that solution would only create another hole on the right edge. Either way, Decker’s uncertain future adds another major question mark to an offseason already filled with them.
As the Lions look to regroup, how they handle the situation at left tackle could shape their fortunes in 2026 and beyond.
