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HC Ben Johnson Confirms Plan to Bring Former Pro Bowl LT to Chicago After Lions Release

 

Chicago, IL. The Chicago Bears may have just found the perfect solution to one of their biggest offseason problems.


After a wave of injuries and roster changes shook the offensive line, head coach Ben Johnson is reportedly moving quickly to bring in a familiar and trusted veteran.

Sources close to the situation say Johnson personally reached out to a longtime former player earlier this week, opening discussions about a possible reunion in Chicago.

That player is former Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker.

 

Lions LT Taylor Decker announced on IG that he requested and will be released by the Detroit Lions. pic.twitter.com/0uKPU6moBf

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2026

Shortly after the conversation, Detroit made the surprising decision to release the veteran offensive lineman, ending a decade-long run with the franchise that drafted him in 2016.

According to league insiders, Johnson made it clear to Decker that Chicago views him as the immediate answer to a growing problem on the offensive line, especially after starting left tackle Ozzy Trapilo suffered a serious knee injury that could threaten his 2026 season.

Decker is widely respected around the league as a steady, reliable protector on the blind side and has earned Pro Bowl honors during his career while anchoring Detroit’s offensive line for nearly ten seasons.

The connection between Johnson and Decker could prove crucial. During Johnson’s tenure as offensive coordinator in Detroit, Decker was a key piece of the Lions’ offensive system, already familiar with the terminology, protections, and blocking schemes Johnson prefers.

That familiarity means the veteran tackle could step into Chicago’s lineup almost immediately without the typical adjustment period that comes with free-agent signings.

For the Bears, the move would be about more than just filling a roster hole. Everything the organization is building now revolves around protecting franchise quarterback Caleb Williams and accelerating his development after a breakout 2025 season.

Adding a proven left tackle like Decker could stabilize the offensive line instantly while allowing Trapilo the time he needs to recover.

If negotiations move quickly, Johnson could soon reunite with one of his most trusted former linemen and give Chicago exactly what it needs heading into the 2026 season: a veteran protector for the future of the franchise.

Modern Football Icon of the Rams, Matthew Stafford Speaks Out to Defend Legend Kurt Warner Amidst Intense NFL "Boycott" Wave
Los Angeles, California – This week, the NFL community was shaken when Kurt Warner, the legendary quarterback of the St. Louis Rams, became the center of a public storm after a single comment during a live broadcast. In a brief analysis, Warner said, “Some young quarterbacks today are more focused on stats than on winning games,” and within minutes, the clip was edited, distorted, and spread quickly across social media. The backlash was fierce. Warner was accused of “disrespecting the new generation,” with television programs dissecting his words, and hashtags demanding the “removal of Warner from broadcasting” spreading across the country. A professional comment quickly became public enemy number one, pushing Warner into the heart of a massive online storm. Amidst the intense controversy, Los Angeles witnessed a moment of respect from Matthew Stafford, thequarterback and the face of the Rams, who immediately stood up and defended Warner. His words were direct and heartfelt, showing a level of maturity far beyond his years. Matthew Stafford, not one to back down from a challenge, spoke candidly to the media: “I understand that some may disagree, but let’s not forget that Kurt Warner gave everything he had to elevate this franchise. One misunderstood comment cannot erase the years he spent fighting for the Rams. If we love this team, we must respect the legends who helped build it.” Stafford’s words instantly shifted the conversation and forced many fans to reconsider their stance. The backlash was real, but Stafford made it clear that Warner's legacy is not to be erased due to a misunderstood comment. Warner had built the foundation for the team, and Stafford made sure that his influence remained intact. This act of defending a franchise legend has become the most memorable moment in Los Angeles this week. Stafford’s ability to stand up and defend the team's icons, even when the world turns against them, shows his leadership both on and off the field. It also demonstrates his commitment to the Rams’ legacy. Matthew Stafford’s words prove the importance of respecting the legends who shaped the franchise. As the future leader of the Rams, he has shown that the next generation is here to protect the foundation built by those who came before them, no matter the circumstances.