Dan Skipper had some somber words in front of his locker after the Lions Week 18 19-16 victory over the Chicago Bears. Skipper addressed the media with a tone that suggested that this would be his last NFL season, with a back injury potentially causing him to step away from the game officially.
Skipper has been in the NFL since 2017, coming out of Arkansas as a UDFA with the New England Patriots. He's had four separate stints with the Lions, coming to prominence in 2022, making his first start after six seasons in the NFL.
He's hopped on and off rosters, but Skipper has been a consistent figure in Detroit primarily being utilized as an extra blocker, "reporting as eligible" to supplement the rushing attack.
When asked about his status moving forward with his career in the NFL, Skipper mentioned that "this might be the last one," possibly bringing his nine-year career to an end. The 6'9 reserve offensive lineman has been dealing with back issues throughout the course of the season, and career, which will lead to him consulting with his doctors moving.
Skipper adds to list of offensive lineman teasing a retirement
Skipper is the second offensive lineman to tease a retirement after Week 18, with Taylor Decker seemingly hitting a limit with the number of injuries he can tolerate while playing left tackle for the Lions. Decker's, and Skipper's, efficiency both dipped this season, and it was obvious in the on-field product both put out in 2025.
After having to go under several surgeries, in addition to his age, Skipper's body may not be able to continue to perform at the level needed for a high level.
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Skipper has been a fan favorite in Detroit, developing a bit of a cult following, especially since a controversial ruling against him vs. Dallas Cowboys two years ago. Fans will often cheer loudly whenever the swing-tackle reports as eligible coming onto the field.
Despite his injuries, Skipper managed to start five games (appearing in 12) for a Detroit Lions offense that needed leadership, while exhibiting the toughness that head coach Dan Campbell has often talked about. Skipper earned just under $5 million dollar in his NFL career according to Spotrac.
Detroit is entering another offseason with huge needs on the offensive line - tackle and center are the big holes that they will have to address in free agency, and in the draft.