NFL Trade Rumors: Bears Linked to Lions OT Taylor Decker After Release
In a stark contrast to the Kansas City Chiefs, where star quarterback Patrick Mahomes took a significant pay cut to help retain key players like tight end Travis Kelce, the Detroit Lions faced a different scenario with their offensive tackle, Taylor Decker. When asked to accept a reduced salary to accommodate the team's financial structure, Decker refused, leading to his release from the franchise.
Coach Dan Campbell's Statement on Decker's Departure
Head coach Dan Campbell addressed the media, expressing regret over the situation. "You never want a player to feel like something has happened to them that they don’t feel good about," Campbell said. He praised Decker as a stud who contributed significantly across three different regimes in Detroit: the Jim Caldwell era, the Matt Patricia/Bob Quinn era, and the current Dan Campbell/Brad Holmes era. Campbell emphasized that the 32-year-old offensive tackle would always be considered a Lion and would be missed in Motor City.
Potential Landing Spot: Chicago Bears
Following his release, analysts are speculating on Decker's next move, with the Chicago Bears emerging as a top contender. This connection has been fueled by the presence of Bears head coach Ben Johnson, a former offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Reports indicate that Johnson reached out to Decker after his release, offering support and potentially setting the stage for a reunion.
Detroit Football Network's Justin Rogers confirmed that Decker received a call from Johnson, who spoke to him as a friend—a gesture that stood in contrast to the Lions' staff, from whom Decker had not heard since his release. FanSided's Anthony Kerr suggests that Johnson's interest might not only be personal but could signal a professional opportunity, with Decker possibly joining the Bears to bolster their offensive line.
Decker's NFL Performance and Market Value
Taylor Decker's resume supports his value as a free agent. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), his 2025 season grades include:
- An overall grade of 67.9, ranking 41st among 89 qualified offensive tackles.
- A pass blocking grade of 69.5, placing him 45th in that category.
- A run blocking grade of 62.1, ranking 57th.
He played nearly 900 offensive snaps, allowing 33 pressures, including 2 sacks and 3 hits, and was flagged for five penalties. Spotrac projects his market value at a two-year, $42 million contract, averaging $21 million annually. However, the Bears currently have limited cap space of around $1 million, which could pose a challenge unless general manager Ryan Poles finds creative solutions.
Why the Bears Might Pursue Decker
The Bears have several reasons to consider signing Decker:
- Injury Replacement: Heavy Sports' Isaac Zuniga notes that Chicago could use Decker on a one-year deal while their in-house left tackle, Ozzy Trapilo, recovers from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in a postseason victory over the Green Bay Packers. Coach Johnson described Trapilo's injury as "pretty serious," leaving all options open at the position.
- Competition for Starting Role: Sports Illustrated's Mike Moraitis identifies Chicago as a top destination for Decker, citing weak in-house options. Braxton Jones was benched last season, Jedrick Wills is injury-prone and hasn't played since 2024, and Theo Benedet is not considered starting caliber.
- Coach-Player Relationship: Johnson and Decker have a history from their time in Detroit, where they witnessed the Lions' rise from the NFC basement to a playoff contender. Decker earned his first Pro Bowl in Johnson's final season with the Lions, and this existing rapport could give the Bears an edge in negotiations.
Broader Implications for the Bears
If signed, Decker could provide an upgrade for quarterback Caleb Williams' blindside protection, potentially helping Williams improve beyond his 11-6 record and recover from a challenging rookie season. Johnson has already brought in former Lions wide receiver Kalif Raymond, making another reunion logical. The move would offer Decker a new home while giving Johnson a proven commitment on the field.
As the NFL offseason progresses, the possibility of Decker joining the Bears remains a hot topic, with fans and analysts alike watching to see if this connection materializes into a signing.
