Lions Release Veteran Left Tackle Taylor Decker

Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker, the team's longest-tenured player, announced on Friday that he has requested and received his release from the organization, ending a decade-long stint with the franchise.

Decker, 32, shared the news via Instagram, just over a week after posting on February 24 that he planned to return for an 11th NFL season. Drafted 16th overall out of Ohio State in 2016, he started all 140 regular-season games and five playoff contests during his time with Detroit. A first-time Pro Bowler in 2024, Decker battled a shoulder injury last season that limited his practice time and prompted him to consider retirement.

In his Instagram post, Decker reflected on his career highlights, including 145 games started, three playoff appearances and two division titles. "Things change," he wrote. "A decade carrying the shield. I fully intended to do it once again, but my time as a Lion is coming to an end." He explained that after notifying the team of his return, "there have been numerous discussions. Many of which were a surprise to me, and we could not find common ground. Therefore I decided to request my release."

The departure stems from failed negotiations over a...