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Lions LT Taylor Decker Weighs Retirement, Says Decision Will Take Months

Decker says he will spend the coming months seeking second opinions after a grueling year managing a surgically repaired shoulder.

Overview

  • Following Detroit’s Week 18 win, the 10-year veteran said he knows he can still play but will not decide immediately, citing a need to avoid an emotional choice.
  • He described an exhaustive in-season regimen — multiple injections, hyperbaric sessions, daily red-light therapy, acupuncture and nightly at‑home stim — and acknowledged strained mental health and poor sleep.
  • Decker framed the choice around being a present father and long‑term quality of life, and he played through a dislocated finger in the season finale.
  • Fellow tackle Dan Skipper, 31, said the game could have been his last and plans to meet with doctors after dealing with lower‑back issues.
  • The uncertainty at tackle looms large for Detroit after Frank Ragnow’s earlier retirement, with national reports noting Decker is considering stepping away and one ESPN analyst predicting a potential cut if he continues.