Former Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker said that he would never sign with an NFC North team after getting released by the Lions this past offseason.
He never expressed qualms with signing with an NFC East team, though. And, he should expect a phone call from one of those teams shortly with news of a devastating injury to five-time Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil.
Tunsil, the Washington Commanders' starting left tackle, reportedly tore his triceps in training camp on Saturday during 1-on-1 drills, and he's expected to be out for an extensive period of time. That's a huge blow to a team looking to reach contention status this year in a fairly non-competitive NFC East division, which should force them to immediately call Decker up.
Decker should land with Commanders following Tunsil injury
Decker was obviously a step slow throughout his year with the Lions in 2025, which was a part of why Detroit decided to part ways with the longtime tackle. A fan favorite, Decker had been a key part to their elite offensive lines from 2023 and 2024, but had taken a step back following some upper body injuries.
Those hampered his ability to remain as lockdown as he had been against the rush, and he was a part of the reason why Jared Goff took the most sacks of his career in 2025. That's not exactly a ringing endorsement of Decker for the Commanders, obviously, but injuries played a key part in holding him back from his real potential.
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He is a bit on the older side for a tackle at 31 years old, but he hasn't been engaging in training camp or workouts with NFL teams so far this offseason. Presumably, he's resting up in hopes that he does get the opportunity to suit up again, as he hasn't made any retirement announcement.
If he's still down to try and compete at a high level, Washington offers him the best path forward. He'd be lining up on the left side of their line with Chris Paul, who gave up just two sacks all of last season and had a PFF grade of 77.4 as a pass blocker. That's a bit of an easier go for Decker as opposed to having to work alongside fellow-injured lineman Christian Mahogany last year.
Washington and Decker simply make the most sense as a match if both sides are earnest about wanting to turn things around in 2026.
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