Lions Extend LT Decker to 3-Year Extension

Grit and toughness: these are two of the key defining traits that Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell has worked hard to instill in his Detroit team since taking the reins in 2021. Since then, the Lions have become one of the most physically imposing teams up front on the offensive side of the ball, boasting a stellar offensive line. This week, Detroit took another step in solidifying their front by extending left tackle Taylor Decker to a three-year, $60 million contract.

Decker has been a model of consistency in his eight years in the NFL, having started 112 games over that span. While he has never made a Pro Bowl, Decker has firmly established himself as one of the better tackles in the league. Last season, Decker allowed eight sacks, tying him for eighth in the league in that regard, while also posting the highest PFF grade of his career. His 81.1 grade on the PFF scale earned him the tenth spot among all tackles, a clear indication of his quality. While he did struggle with penalties at times, his ability to protect Jared Goff’s blindside is something the Lions want to keep in the building for the foreseeable future.

At $20 million a year, his services are coming at a premium, placing him fifth among all left tackles in the NFL. It’s a fair price for a tackle who will undoubtedly be surpassed in annual average value once the new year rolls around due to the ever-growing cap in the NFL. With expectations sky-high for Detroit after losing in the NFC Championship game just a year ago, making sure you have one of the most important positions in the NFL signed and secured is a major step toward a potential Lombardi Trophy.