Taylor Decker, the offensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, has officially announced his return for an 11th season in the NFL. After contemplating retirement during the early stages of the offseason, Decker made his intentions clear through an Instagram post on Tuesday.
In his post, he shared a striking image of himself sprinting onto the field at Ford Field, dressed in his black Lions uniform. He quoted a passage stating, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? And I said, “Here am I; SEND ME!” #Year11.”
Decker”s decision follows nearly three months of reflection, during which he had revealed to the Detroit Free Press that he was weighing retirement for personal and health-related reasons. Lions general manager Brad Holmes acknowledged the situation at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis, emphasizing that Decker deserved the time to contemplate his future. Holmes remarked, “Obviously Taylor, he”s earned the right to have as much space as he needs to reflect on a long season, and we respect him, we give him that.”
As a first-round pick in 2016, selected 16th overall from Ohio State, Decker has been a reliable presence on the Lions” offensive line for a decade. He has started 140 games, all at left tackle, and earned a trip to the NFL Pro Bowl as an alternate in 2024. Despite his significant contributions, Decker has faced challenges, having undergone five major surgeries on his shoulder (twice), finger, ankle, and toe throughout his career.
According to reports from Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Decker”s return is a boost for the Lions, who now retain four of five starters from last year”s offensive line. However, the team will still need to seek additional support at the center position this spring, while also planning for the future beyond the upcoming season.
For further updates on the Lions, fans can follow the team on X at @TheLionsWire and like their Facebook page. This announcement first appeared on Lions Wire.
