The Detroit Lions are still on the hunt for a new starting left tackle after granting Taylor Decker’s release last week. After parting ways with Decker, the Lions thought they might have found at least one answer to their glaring LT issue, as they brought in Jedrick Wills Jr. for a visit.
However, that visit was all for naught, as the Lions’ divisional rival, [the Chicago Bears, snatched up Wills Jr.](https://detroitjockcity.com/bears-add-to-lions-lt-headaches-by-swiping-jedrick-wills-01kkfd7cn391) and signed him to a one-year deal. Wills will now likely compete for the Bears’ starting left tackle job.
Luckily for the Lions, all hope is not lost, as All-Pro Jack Conklin was released by the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, [per Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network](https://x.com/tompelissero/status/2032054635997868397?s=46). Conklin, who has spent 10 years in the league, has struggled with his health over the last three seasons, but that shouldn’t deter Detroit from putting in an inquiry.
Jack Conklin’s Release Finds Lions at Perfect Time
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The current free agent left tackle market leaves much to be desired if you’re Detroit GM Brad Holmes. Rasheed Walker and Decker are the top names left, but Decker isn’t an option, and Walker could still break the bank.
Detroit can’t afford to hand out a huge deal, as they have a few more positions to address, such as linebacker, nickel back, and defensive end. Therefore, a guy like Conklin could be a better fit for them despite being a right tackle.
Conklin played left tackle in college at Michigan State, but in the pros was switched out to right tackle, where he’s made a nice living. In fact, the last time the veteran lineman received snaps at left tackle was during the 2017 season with the Tennessee Titans. That was Conklin’s second year in the NFL, and he only played 27 snaps on the left side compared to 1,070 on the right.
Nonetheless, the Lions putting Conklin at left tackle would be a huge gamble. Still, given that Giovanni Manu is their best option, Detroit would likely prefer to work with Conklin instead.
As we previously mentioned, Conklin has struggled with injuries over the last few years, which could water down his value. This past season, the 31-year-old only started in eight games due to concussions.
When he was on the field, Conklin had a 67.1 run blocking grade, which was an improvement from 2024 (59.6), where he made 12 starts. However, the veteran’s pass blocking graded out at a career-worst 44.8, per Pro Football Focus. Last season, Conklin allowed 24 pressures, four sacks, and was penalized three times.
But if there’s a silver lining for Conklin, it's that he’s been a steady force in pass protection throughout his career. And not to mention, he would be reunited with Drew Petzing, who was in Cleveland for three seasons.
Petzing never had the chance to coach him as he worked with tight ends and QBs, but he’s likely familiar with Conklin's skill set and how he would fit into his scheme. Therefore, we should keep an eye out to see if the Lions make a move for the veteran. Detroit’s options aren’t great after missing out on Wills, so they need to make this a priority to fix soon.
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