Jeff Bilbrey
Taylor Decker’s Contract Strategy: Insights and Predictions
As the Detroit Lions gear up for the 20225 NFL season, all eyes are on veteran left tackle Taylor Decker, who is entering the final season of his hefty five-year, $59.65 million contract signed back in September 2020. Decker, known for his pivotal role in protecting quarterback Jared Goff, has proved his worth consistently on the field, showing not just durability but also skill, particularly in pass-blocking.
An In-depth Look at Taylor Decker’s Performance and Potential Contract Extension
Decker’s performance has been nothing short of impressive, with Pro Football Focus giving him a pass-blocking grade of 79.4 in the previous season, positioning him 14th among all qualified tackles. His overall grade of 81.1, the highest since 2020, underscored his critical role in both passing and running games, helping running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs to notch up significant yardage last season.
“Kind of entry-level conversations, base-level conversations,” Decker stated earlier in April concerning his ongoing discussions with the Lions. The anticipation around his contract extension is high, given his consistent performance and the initial positive talks he referenced. While he is navigating towards the tail-end of his career, Decker’s experience and proficiency could see him landing a top-tier salary among left tackles.
Over the Cap values Decker’s performance at a “contract valuation” of $8,577,000 for the past season, ranking his total contract eighth in value among left tackles. With a scenario where the top-10 left tackles earn notably more, Decker is expected to push for a lucrative deal that reflects his stature and contributions to the team.
Predicted Moves for Decker’s Continuing Journey with the Lions
The prediction is that Decker is likely to sign a two-year contract extension worth $33 million, retaining him as a cornerstone of the Lions’ offensive line. This would ensure not only Decker’s security but also the Lions’ stability as they aim to build a protective pocket around Goff and enhance their running game.
As negotiations potentially evolve into deeper discussions, Detroit Lions fans and team management alike will be keen to lock down a deal that ensures the veteran tackle remains a defining figure in their squad – keeping the team competitive and continuing their strategic development with a key player like Decker onboard.
