The Detroit Lions are doing everything they can to buy left tackle Taylor Decker some extra time this week, but his status for Sunday’s home opener against the Chicago Bears is still very much up in the air.
Campbell Playing It Safe with His Veteran Tackle
On Thursday, head coach Dan Campbell told reporters that the team is intentionally keeping Decker out of practice to let him rest up.
“Dan Campbell says the Lions are trying to buy Taylor Decker some time. Can afford to sit him in practice because he’s a veteran. Says he feels good about Decker’s chances of playing, but can’t give a definitive yes right now,” tweeted Colton Pouncy of The Athletic.
The 31-year-old lineman is one of the Lions’ longest-tenured players and has battled through injuries in past seasons. Campbell emphasized that while the team is optimistic, they’re not rushing him back into full-speed action.
No Practice Expected Friday
Campbell also told reporters he does not expect Decker to practice Friday, leaving his official game status uncertain heading into the weekend.
That leaves Detroit in a bit of a holding pattern. Decker’s presence on the line is critical for quarterback Jared Goff’s blindside protection, especially with Chicago bringing in former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and his revamped Bears defense.
Backup Plan: Giovanni Manu
If Decker can’t go, rookie Giovanni Manu may be called into action. On Friday, Campbell said Manu practiced better on Wednesday and Thursday and that he has to be ready, “Just in case”.
Manu, the 6-foot-8, 350-pound rookie out of British Columbia, has been a developmental piece for Detroit since being drafted, but Week 2 could present him with his biggest test yet if Decker is sidelined.
Why This Matters
Lions fans know the offensive line has long been the backbone of this team. Last season, when fully healthy, Detroit boasted one of the NFL’s best units. But with Frank Ragnow retiring and the guard spots reshuffled, the line is already adjusting to new chemistry. Losing Decker, even for a week, could disrupt that stability.
Still, Campbell’s message was clear: Decker’s a veteran, he knows how to prepare, and the Lions will give him every chance to suit up Sunday.
Recent Comments