The Detroit Lions made a move to strengthen their offensive line depth by agreeing to terms with offensive lineman Larry Borom. But while the signing adds another body to the trenches, it also highlights the complicated situation Detroit now faces following the release of longtime left tackle Taylor Decker.
For years, Decker was a pillar of Detroit’s offensive line. His departure has left the Lions scrambling to figure out how they will stabilize one of the most critical positions on the roster.
The Void Left by Taylor Decker
Decker wasn’t just another starter — he was one of the longest-tenured players on the team and a key protector of quarterback Jared Goff.
Since being drafted in the first round back in 2016, Decker anchored the left side of the line and helped the Lions build one of the NFL’s most respected offensive fronts.
Under head coach Dan Campbell, the offensive line became the identity of the team’s physical style of play. Decker’s leadership and consistency were major reasons that unit performed at such a high level.
Losing him doesn’t just affect pass protection — it also removes a veteran presence from one of the team’s most important position groups.
Larry Borom Brings Experience — But Questions Remain
Borom previously played for the Chicago Bears and brings versatility that could help Detroit navigate its current situation.
Throughout his career, Borom has played both tackle positions and has even filled in at guard when needed. That kind of flexibility is valuable for a team trying to manage injuries or rotate players along the line.
However, Borom has mostly been viewed as a depth option rather than a long-term starter at left tackle.
That’s what makes the move feel more like a temporary fix than a true replacement for Decker.
Pressure Shifts to Detroit’s Offensive Line Core
Even with Borom joining the roster, the Lions will likely rely heavily on star right tackle Penei Sewell to continue anchoring the offensive line.
Sewell has emerged as one of the best linemen in football and remains a cornerstone of Detroit’s offense.
But without Decker on the opposite side, Detroit’s once-stable line suddenly looks far less certain heading into the new season.
That uncertainty could impact both the protection for Goff and the Lions’ powerful run game.
Brad Holmes Still Has Decisions to Make
General manager Brad Holmes has earned a reputation for building Detroit through smart drafting and calculated roster moves.
But replacing a longtime starting left tackle is one of the toughest tasks in football.
The Lions may still explore several options moving forward:
Developing a young player already on the roster
Adding another veteran through free agency
Targeting a left tackle early in the NFL Draft
Until that happens, the position remains one of Detroit’s biggest question marks.
The Bottom Line
The signing of Larry Borom gives the Lions useful depth, but it also underscores the challenge created by Taylor Decker’s departure.
Detroit still has a strong foundation along the offensive line, but finding a true replacement at left tackle will be crucial if the team wants to maintain the offensive success it has built in recent seasons. 🦁🏈
Lions Sign Larry Borom — But Decker’s Departure Still Leaves Detroit in Trouble
