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Former Lions standout Taylor Decker still a free agent
Taylor Decker. David Reginek-Imagn Images

Former Lions standout Taylor Decker somehow still a free agent

The Detroit Lions have made plenty of moves during the offseason as they create a fresh offense under new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing and try to come back from their last-place showing in the NFC North in 2025.

One of the moves the Lions made during the offseason that raised eyebrows was cutting ties with offensive tackle Taylor Decker. The player asked for his release after the Lions wanted him to take a pay cut, which is something he didn't want to do.

So, Decker became a free agent earlier this year, and he's still in that position. Now, he's making waves and being named the No. 1 best remaining free agent in the entire NFL.

Ex-Lions player Taylor Decker is the No. 1 available NFL free agent

On Saturday, Matt Bowen of ESPN called Decker the top remaining free agent on the market.

"Decker asked for his release from the Lions after 10 seasons in Detroit," Bowen wrote, adding that what makes Decker stand out is his numbers. "In 2025, Decker had a pass block win rate of 89.3%, the second lowest of his career. However, with the toughness and intangibles he brings, he will have a market at a premium position."

It's certainly the case that Decker had a standout season in 2025, and that's why his stock is so high in free agency. It's a bit puzzling why a team hasn't lapped him up yet, but it's only a matter of time before it happens. He should be signed this summer, and if not, when injuries start to hit next season, Decker won't be a free agent for long.

Anne Erickson

Anne Erickson is an award-winning news reporter covering the NFL, NBA, college sports and more for Yardbarker. Erickson has years of experience covering the NFL and other sports, and her work has been published by Fox Sports, ESPN and Newsweek, among others. She has also interviewed a bevy of big names in sports and entertainment, including Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, Lions edge Aidan Hutchinson and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott

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