Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker announced he requested his release from the team after contract discussions with the organization failed to produce an agreement.
Decker shared the news in a message posted on social media, where he reflected on his decade with the franchise and explained his decision to move on.
“Things change. 145 games started, 3 playoff appearances, 2 division titles, a decade carrying the shield,” Decker wrote. “I fully intended to do it once again, but my time as a Lion is coming to an end.”
The veteran offensive lineman said discussions with the team over the past several weeks did not lead to a resolution.
“In the weeks since notifying the team of my return there have been numerous discussions. Many of which were a surprise to me, and we could not find common ground. Therefore I decided to request my release,” Decker wrote.
Decker’s departure closes the book on one of the longest tenures on Detroit’s roster. The Lions selected him with the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Ohio State.
Since entering the league, Decker served as a cornerstone of Detroit’s offensive line. He started more than 140 games for the Lions and earned a Pro Bowl selection during his career while anchoring the left tackle position.
According to reports, the move comes after contract talks between Decker and the organization broke down. The decision clears cap space for Detroit heading into the offseason while creating dead money on the team’s books.
In his message to fans, Decker emphasized his appreciation for the franchise and the city of Detroit.
“I am opting for a clean and amicable close to what has been such a beautiful 10 years going to war as a Lion,” Decker wrote.
He concluded by thanking the Lions organization and ownership for the opportunity to spend his career in Detroit.
“It has been the absolute privilege of my life to be your LT for the past 10 years,” Decker wrote. “I am forever grateful for the opportunity the Ford family and Lions organization afforded me.”
Decker now enters free agency after ten seasons with the Lions, leaving Detroit with a major question at left tackle heading into the next phase of the offseason.
