Retirement whispers, injury recoveries and contract extensions — the Lions’ offseason just got real. Brad Holmes promised “clarity” soon, but the decisions on Taylor Decker, David Montgomery and Detroit’s young core could reshape a Super Bowl window fast.
At NFL Scouting Combine media day, Brad Holmes offered insight into several key Detroit Lions storylines that could shape the franchise’s 2026 outlook. From uncertainty along the offensive line to long-term extensions for foundational pieces, Holmes made it clear the next few weeks will be pivotal.
Taylor Decker’s Retirement Looming?
Veteran left tackle Taylor Decker has been contemplating retirement, creating uncertainty at one of the most important positions on the roster. Decker, 32, is entering the later stages of his career and showed signs of decline last season. While still serviceable, his pass protection wasn’t as steady as in prior years, and durability has become more of a concern.
Financially, his decision carries major implications. Decker is set to count roughly $21 million against the cap in 2026. If he retires, Detroit would gain significant relief, though some dead money would accelerate depending on timing. A post-June 1 designation could soften the blow and maximize savings.
Holmes emphasized the need for clarity.
“Obviously you want as much clarity as possible… within these next couple of weeks we will make sure we have that clarity,” he said.
If Decker walks away, the Lions have options — but none without risk. Moving Penei Sewell to left tackle makes the most sense. Sewell has Hall of Fame-caliber talent and prior experience on the left side. Though he has thrived at right tackle, protecting the blind side with your best lineman is logical team-building. The alternative — inserting a rookie at left tackle — feels far riskier for a team in win-now mode. Detroit could also explore a veteran free agent bridge option, but Sewell’s versatility gives Holmes flexibility.
Tate Ratledge’s Potential Move to Center
Holmes also revealed that second-year lineman Tate Ratledge could shift to center.
“I think that’s a real option,” Holmes said. “When we tried him out there early in camp, he wasn’t doing anything wrong and we felt as a rookie right guard would be a little bit easier acclimation for him… there’s still promise for Ratledge to move to that position.”
Ratledge played center in college and flashed high football IQ and strong communication skills. He impressed at right guard last season, particularly in run blocking, where he consistently created push at the point of attack. With uncertainty at center long term, sliding Ratledge inside could solidify the interior while keeping continuity along the line. It would also allow Detroit to target guard depth rather than a starting center in the draft.
David Montgomery’s Future
Running back David Montgomery remains under contract, but 2025 was a quieter season by his standards. His touches dipped, explosiveness appeared inconsistent, and his role shifted in an offense increasingly built around speed and spacing.
Holmes pushed back on speculation.
“We love David… we’d love to have him. Kind of want to put last year in the rear view and just move forward.”
Montgomery did appear frustrated at times, even briefly liking a social media post suggesting a trade before quickly unliking it once it went viral. Still, he provides value as a physical complement and short-yardage option. The Lions could explore a restructure or simply recommit to balancing the workload more effectively. Given his contract structure, trading him would only make sense if meaningful draft compensation emerged.
Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph Injury Updates
Safety depth remains a concern after injuries to Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph derailed last season.
Branch tore his Achilles in Week 15, a serious injury that often requires a full year for recovery. Joseph’s season ended in Week 7 amid speculation about a degenerative knee issue. Holmes attempted to calm concerns.
“There’s no hard timeline and I know they’re on track to get as healthy as possible,” he said, adding that “in a month we’ll know more about the situation.”
Detroit may still prioritize safety depth in free agency or the draft given the uncertainty, especially with Achilles recoveries historically unpredictable.
LaPorta, Branch Extension Talks
Tight end Sam LaPorta and Branch are both entering the final year of their rookie deals. LaPorta is coming off a back injury, and Branch is rehabbing his Achilles, but Holmes made clear both remain pillars.
“They’re a part of our foundation… there’s a lot of different timelines and levers at our disposal,” Holmes said. “These are players we wanna keep around for a long time.”
Holmes could create cap space creatively, including restructuring quarterback Jared Goff if needed — similar to how the Kansas City Chiefs recently freed significant space by adjusting Patrick Mahomes’ deal.
As Holmes reiterated throughout the session, clarity is coming soon. And for a team with championship aspirations, these decisions will define the next phase of Detroit’s window.