Analyst finds perfect Taylor Decker replacement in latest 2026 Lions mock draft

An offensive line can be the difference between a Super Bowl win and an embarassing loss. Just as the Kansas City Chiefs, who were constantly embattled against the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive front and were giving up major pressure throughout the entire game. Patrick Mahomes was never able to get going because of that O-line, and the importance of a strong one took center stage.

The Detroit Lions' offensive line, led by Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker, was one of the best in the NFL in 2024. The Lions were able to take full advantage of the clean pockets the line provided for both Jared Goff and the teams' run game, and they ended up posting the most points per game of any team in the league.

Clearly, the Lions understand the importance of a solid, healthy O-line. That's why, in CBS Sports' latest 2026 mock draft, it makes sense to see that analyst Chris Trapasso has the Lions shoring up at tackle by taking one of the best available in next year's class: Isaiah World.

Lions land World in latest 2026 mock draft

World, a tackle from Oregon, would be the immediate predecessor to Decker if the team finds that his age is beginning to show at any point during the 2025 season. He'll be 32 by the time the season comes around, and that's typically around the age where you begin to see tackles, or any trench player, break down a bit.

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"World exudes upside in a classic left tackle frame.Taylor Decker is well into his 30s and has battled injuries. Clearly, the Lions place a high priority on the offensive line, so this would be a prudent pick for the Super Bowl contenders," wrote Trapasso.

Detroit took a swing on Tate Ratledge and Miles Frazier in this year's draft, adding guard depth to their line and help for Sewell and Decker. Adding to your trenches, an area that will more often than not see the result of a grinding 17 week season, is never a bad idea. World only allowed one sack and two hits in 2024 with the Nevada Wolf Pack, and he's sure to add even more exciting tape to his reel with the Ducks in 2025.

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