The Detroit Lions will have Taylor Decker back at left tackle for the next season, but the team remains cautious about the depth at that position. Decker, who will turn 33 before the season begins, showed signs of vulnerability last year after dealing with multiple injuries, including a lingering shoulder issue that affected both his pass protection and run blocking. Given these concerns, the Lions appear intent on securing reliable backup help behind Decker.
Currently, the only backup left tackle on the Lions’ roster is Giovanni Manu, their former fourth-round draft pick. Although Manu has progressed slowly through the ranks, he is not viewed as ready to adequately support Decker or to step into a starting role if needed this year.
Interest in Browns’ Jedrick Wills Reflects Uncertainty About Manu
Against this backdrop, a recent report from NFL insider Jordan Schultz that Detroit held discussions with Jedrick Wills of the Cleveland Browns offers insight into the Lions’ mindset. Wills, once a top-10 draft pick, has struggled with injuries, missing the entire 2025 season while recovering from a knee problem that also limited him in 2024. Cleveland’s offensive line situation has been unstable, and the Browns seem unlikely to retain Wills long term.
Despite the opportunity to add experience at left tackle, Wills’ on-field performance has been inconsistent. In 2024, he earned a middling PFF grade of 52.9 overall, with a 51.6 rating in run blocking and a slightly better 63.6 in pass protection. These numbers highlight ongoing challenges in his effectiveness even when fully healthy.
Though acquiring Wills might provide a short-term solution as a backup left tackle, it also underscores the limited confidence Detroit places in Manu’s readiness. The Lions’ options are further narrowed by a thin free agent market, with available tackles such as Rasheed Walker, Jermaine Eleumunor, and Braden Smith expected to command significant salaries due to the scarcity of quality starters.
Future Prospects and the Path Forward for Detroit’s Left Tackle
The Lions face a tough decision: invest in an experienced but injury-prone player like Wills, pursue a trade to bolster the position, or focus on drafting a long-term replacement. Wills’ potential signing would allow Detroit to keep draft resources available for selecting a successor rather than relying on Manuel or an expensive free agent.
This strategic positioning sends a clear message that Giovanni Manu is not currently viewed as the future of the left tackle spot in Detroit. The organization is actively seeking alternatives, reflecting broader concerns about protecting the quarterback and stabilizing the offensive line moving forward.
“While Taylor Decker is returning for another season with the Detroit Lions at left tackle, that doesn’t mean that the team should stop searching for help at the position.” ?Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider
Sources: Former #Browns OT Jedrick Wills, who sat out last season to fully recover from a knee injury, has been on a tour of visits with NFL teams — including the #Patriots and today with the #Lions. Visits are expected to continue into next week.
A former top-10 pick, Wills —… pic.twitter.com/6vQiDaLXni
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 5, 2026
