Taylor Decker, the Detroit Lions’ starting left tackle and longest-tenured player, is inching closer to returning to action after missing two games. Decker, who takes pride in being on the field with his teammates, has struggled with the decision to sit out due to injuries.
Decker has been managing a knee injury that he sustained after getting rolled up on during a game in Indianapolis. Earlier in the season, he also missed a game against the Houston Texans with a shoulder injury. Despite these setbacks, Decker practiced on Wednesday, signaling progress toward his return.
“When you’re not out there, you feel guilty because you’re not suffering with your friends,” Decker admitted. “But it came down to this: I could try to be tough and risk missing the rest of the season, or I could trust the trainers to do what’s best for me and the team. I don’t have to like it, but I know it’s the right call.”
Decker credited Lions head athletic trainer Mike Sundeen and director of player health and performance Brett Fischer for guiding him through the recovery process. While he acknowledged his frustration, he also expressed trust in their expertise.
Decker revealed that his knee felt fine after the Colts game, but later that night, he woke up unable to walk or put weight on his leg. Playing in the Thanksgiving game wasn’t feasible, and while he tried to return for the Packers game, the Lions opted for caution.
Before the season, Decker signed a three-year, $60 million extension with $31.8 million guaranteed, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the franchise. Despite his injuries, he has performed well when healthy, earning high marks from Pro Football Focus. Decker ranks 26th among offensive tackles who have played at least 20% of their team’s snaps, allowing six sacks and just 10 pressures this season. His only subpar performance came against the Minnesota Vikings.
Known for his dependability and underrated pass blocking, Decker remains determined to return to the team’s formidable starting offensive line.
“For me, I think I’m good to go,” Decker said. “But I’ll let the trainers do their job. I feel much better and confident about this week.”
In Decker’s absence, Dan Skipper has stepped in as the starting left tackle. A versatile veteran often used as an extra blocker, Skipper’s three starts at tackle this season are his first in a seven-year career. He has performed admirably, allowing just one sack and eight pressures since taking over. The Lions have also chosen to keep Penei Sewell on the right side, a departure from past years.
“Coach Campbell probably mentioned this, but Skip was phenomenal, especially in the last game,” Decker said. “He did an awesome job. I’m not surprised. Skip has stepped in so many times—at guard, tackle, jumbo tight end. He always gives maximum effort.”
Decker’s return could further solidify an offensive line already performing at a high level, with Skipper having proven himself a reliable fill-in during the veteran’s recovery.
