Former Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker is still looking for his next NFL team — and could have at least a bit longer to wait.
Decker has remained on the open market after requesting and being given a release by the Lions in March. He remained unsigned through the start of training camps and the opening week of the preseason, and Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox believes he’ll remain that way.
Taylor Decker Expected to Remain Unsigned
In a breakdown of the NFL free agency landscape, Knox noted that Decker is likely the best option at tackle still on the market. He noted that another NFC contender could have a spot for Decker.
“Decker, who was graded 41st overall among offensive tackles by Pro Football Focus last season, is arguably the top lineman still available,” Knox wrote. “After getting out of Detroit, he’s likely looking for a more intriguing opportunity. Theoretically, he could find it with the Washington Commanders, who have lost Laremy Tunsil to a torn triceps.”
Knox noted that the Commanders may need some time to evaluate their own roster depth before making a decision on Decker.
“Could the Commanders’ plan change after evaluating their depth in the preseason?” Knox wrote. “Absolutely, and other opportunities could arise for Decker as other teams evaluate what they have up front. Don’t be surprised if Decker continues waiting for his perfect fit.”
Knox ultimately predicted that Decker would still be without an NFL team until after final roster cuts are due on August 30.
Other Options for Taylor Decker After Lions Tenure Ended
NFL.com reporter Grant Gordon suggested earlier this offseason that Decker could find a home with another NFC contender, the Los Angeles Rams.
“With Alaric Jackson having emerged from legal troubles and Warren McClendon having acquitted himself well in relief of a now-retired Rob Havenstein last season, the Rams’ Super Bowl push seems set at the tackles,” wrote Gordon. “However, considering Havenstein’s departure and the previous uncertainty with Jackson, a need for solid depth on a team with such high hopes has been underscored.
“Rookie third-rounder Keagen Trost bodes well for future plans, but adding Decker, who previously protected Matthew Stafford‘s blind side in Detroit, would be a luxury fitting for what L.A. is trying to put together.”
The Commanders have consistently emerged as a suggested option for Taylor, however. Commanders reporter Josh Taylor noted in the spring that Washington has the top of their depth chart set, but could use more depth.
“My understanding is that Brandon Coleman is the LT for the season,” Taylor wrote in a post on X. “I haven’t heard anything about adding another player, but I would personally call Taylor Decker immediately. Has a relationship with (David) Blough, and KNOWS the offense already. No brainer.”
Longtime Lions Tackle Taylor Decker Faces Grim Free Agency Prediction