Taylor Decker will continue his career in 2026. In spite of that, the Lions will still be in the market for reinforcements at the left tackle spot this offseason. 
“We’re still going to find a guy,” head coach Dan Campbell said about a situation in which Decker returned, shortly before that was confirmed to be taking place (h/t Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk). “Because as much as I love Deck, he’s got some things that are going to need some management. That’s kind of where we’re at. One way or another, we’re going to need somebody that can play over there and that can help us if we need them in a crunch or we need them as a starter.”
Decker was able to play in 14 games this past season, the same figure as 2024. A first-team gig will await him once more during his 11th Lions campaign, but it would come as no surprise if Detroit sought out contingency plans in the short term. As things stand, former fourth-rounder pick Giovanni Manu would be among the top options to fill in on the blindside if needed.
A small number of left tackles in their prime – such as Rasheed Walker – are on track for free agency in March. The three-year Packers starter will land a deal worth far more than what the Lions will be budgeting for at the left tackle spot, though, so veteran stopgaps will need to be pursued instead. The likes of Cam Robinson, D.J. Humphries and Joseph Noteboom will hit the market shortly, and they would represent experienced depth for Detroit.
Campbell also noted, to no surprise, that shoring up the interior of the offensive line will be a priority as well this spring. Avoiding the struggles endured up front last season would go a long way in helping Detroit return to the playoffs in 2026. Two years remain on Decker’s contract, but the possibility of retirement will loom once again throughout next season.
The Lions are among the teams with notable work to be done to achieve cap compliance. Detroit is currently $12.16MM over the cap, so a high-priced left tackle addition will be hard to make. Bringing in a rookie will also be feasible, as the team owns eight selections in April’s draft.
Why does it have to be a left tackle? Sewell used to play LT and could move easily.