Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions.
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The Detroit Lions have officially cut ties with an $18 veteran in free agency, and he'll likely land with a rival.
On Monday, March 9, the NFL’s “tampering” period kicked off, giving teams and players a chance to mingle before the NFL’s free agency period officially starts. So, NFL teams, including the Detroit Lions, are making moves and deals that will kick in on Wednesday, March 11, when NFL free agency truly begins.
On Monday, the Detroit Lions released a beloved player: offensive tackle Taylor Decker. The team initially selected Decker was selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft with the 16th overall pick, and he had been with the team ever since.
“Honestly in disbelief that his tenure ended like that, but will wish him the best nonetheless,” one follower said in response to the Lions’ official X account on Monday. “Bro quit ruining the franchise, please,” another said.
So, Decker is now a free agent, but he won’t have any trouble finding a new home. The question is, was this a good or bad move for the Detroit Lions?
Detroit Lions Have Been With Taylor Decker Since 2016, But Now, They’re Parting Ways
So, Decker is out, but he’ll have an easy time finding a new home. He had actually requested to be let go, so you know he has a hint that better things are out there for him. It’s not a good sign for the franchise, though, that Decker wants out, and it points to him believing another franchise has a better chance to get to the big game.
In a March 9 feature for ESPN on the NFL’s top 100 free agent, Matt Bowen has Decker the No. 32 best free agent available. Decker is projected to get an $18 million deal in free agency, according to Over the Cap research. He previously signed a three-year, $60 million extension with the Lions in July 2024.
“Decker asked for his release from the Lions after 10 seasons in Detroit. In 2025, Decker had a pass block win rate of 89.3%, the second lowest of his career,” he notes. “However, with the toughness and intangibles he brings, he will have a market at a premium position.”
Detroit Lions Player Likely to Land With Arch Rival Team
Brad Berreman of SideLion Report names a handful of potential landing spots for Decker in a March 9 feature. His No. 1 choice totally makes sense. But, be warned that what Berreman is about to say will hurt the Detroit Lions in the gut, because he sees the player going to a rival.
“The moment the news of Decker’s release came, the whole world seemed to mention the Bears as a potential landing spot for him. And it absolutely makes sense,” he said. “With Ozzy Trapilo’s status heading toward next season in doubt after he suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in the playoffs, the Bears are in the market for a left tackle.”
He adds of the possibility, “Most likely, they’re looking for a short-term option while Trapilo works through his recovery. Decker also of course has significant history with Bears head coach Ben Johnson.”
He continues about the Johnson connection, “The two overlapped in Detroit for six seasons (2019-2024), including all three of Johnson’s seasons as the offensive coordinator. So the system fit should be seamless, which is important as the Bears try to keep their momentum from last season rolling.”