Report: Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker unlikely to play vs. Chargers

If you thought the Detroit Lions’ pass protection was bad last week, it may look even worse on Sunday.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Lions left tackle Taylor Decker is not likely to play against the Los Angeles Chargers in Detroit’s home opener this week:

Of course, this deserves the “Ian Rapoport Proceed With Caution” warning, but if true, it’s a big blow to the Lions offensive line with Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram III—two of the league’s best pass rushers—coming to town. Decker had a rough game against the Cardinals in the season opener, but the Lions’ depth at the position is even worse.

During Friday’s practice, it was offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby in Decker’s place. The 2018 fifth-round pick struggled in the preseason and only has two career starts to his name—both at right tackle. Detroit’s only other realistic option is sliding veteran guard Kenny Wiggins to tackle, something we saw Detroit do towards the end of the preseason when injuries hit.

On the Chargers sign, ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting that the Chargers kicker Michael Badgley is unlikely to play, meaning punter Ty Long will kick again Sunday. In Week 1, Long replaced Badgley and made every extra point and succeeded in his only field goal attempt from 40 yards.

Additionally, per Schefter, Los Angeles wide receiver Mike Williams showed improvement through the week and will likely be used only in red-zone situations.