The Detroit Lions may be winning now, but that hasn’t stopped draft analysts from looking ahead — especially when it comes to one of the most important positions on the field.
In a recent NFL mock draft, respected draft analyst Dane Brugler paired the Lions with a potential long-term successor to Taylor Decker, signaling that Detroit could soon be preparing for life after its longtime left tackle.
📍 Why Taylor Decker’s Spot Is Under the Microscope
Taylor Decker has been one of the most reliable players of the Dan Campbell era. He’s tough, consistent, and respected inside the locker room. But offensive line planning in the NFL is always about what’s next, not just what’s working today.
Decker isn’t gone — and this projection isn’t a sign Detroit is moving on immediately. Instead, it reflects smart roster construction. Elite teams draft offensive linemen before the need becomes urgent, allowing young players time to develop while veterans still hold the starting role.
📍 A Very “Brad Holmes” Kind of Move
This type of projection fits perfectly with Brad Holmes’ long-term philosophy. The Lions have consistently prioritized the trenches, believing games are won and lost up front. Pairing Detroit with a young offensive tackle in a mock draft suggests the front office could be thinking about continuity, not replacement.
Drafting a potential Decker successor would allow the Lions to:
Develop a tackle without pressure
Maintain elite protection for Jared Goff
Avoid scrambling in future offseasons
📍 What It Says About Detroit’s Direction
More than anything, this mock draft pairing shows how far the Lions have come. They’re no longer drafting out of desperation — they’re drafting out of planning and foresight.
When analysts start mocking future replacements instead of immediate fixes, it usually means a franchise is healthy, stable, and thinking several seasons ahead.
📍 The Big Picture
Whether or not the Lions actually select a tackle early remains to be seen. But the idea alone sends a clear message: Detroit is thinking long-term, even while chasing a championship right now.
Taylor Decker is still the guy — but the Lions are making sure the next guy is ready when the time finally comes.
One Pride, always building. 🦁
Mock Draft Bombshell: Lions Paired With Taylor Decker’s Eventual Successor
