Entering the offseason, upgrading the offensive line was, without question, the top priority for the Detroit Lions. Once Taylor Decker shockingly requested his release, the need became more urgent.
The Lions knew that replacing someone of Decker’s stature would be difficult; however, they wasted no time adding reinforcements by signing veteran Larry Borom. The five-year veteran spent the past season with the Miami Dolphins, playing exclusively at right tackle.
Borom, 26, had a solid season for the Dolphins, starting 11 of his 14 games, allowing just two sacks and 10 hurries, while also drawing five penalties. At this time, it’s uncertain where he’ll line up next season, but he does provide the Lions with versatility and experience at both tackle spots.
Although Borom has yet to strap on the blue and silver helmet, he has made a strong first impression among Lions’ fans at his signing-day press conference.
Borom Quickly Becoming a Fan-Favorite
During his introductory press conference, Borom, a Detroit native, revealed that his mother cried when he told her he was signing with the Lions. Since he was born and raised in Detroit, it’s clear that this means more to him than just joining a new team; it’s coming back home.
Borom expressed his excitement to return to the city with reporters, via ESPN’s Eric Woodyard, saying of Detroit, “It grew me into the man I am today.”
Having the opportunity to play for his hometown team, it’s evident that Borom is grateful to suit up for the Lions. With comments like these, it will be easy for fans to root for the local guy. His connection and appreciation for the city should resonate well with Lions supporters, as he’ll likely be living out his childhood dreams by representing the team he grew up watching.
Borom brings the toughness and team-first approach that head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have been building since taking over the team. According to MLive reporter Kory Woods, Borom said he’s “willing to do whatever is necessary to help the team.”
This is the exact mindset that every coach desires from their players. Even though Borom is the only tackle they’ve added so far, he’s not going around saying that he should be a starter. Instead, he’s fully committed to what the team wants him to do. This selfless attitude embodies what Detroit is looking for in its players.
Borom's Experience Strengthens Lions Tackle Depth
While Borom’s position hasn’t been finalized, his experience and versatility give them something to work with. Meanwhile, Detroit’s current depth at tackle doesn’t provide this. As of this writing, the Lions have Devin Cochran, Giovanni Manu, and Mason Miller on the roster.
Neither Cochran nor Manu has played enough snaps to determine if they’re reliable or not, while Miller hasn’t played a single snap in his career. Unless they trade for a starting-caliber tackle or use a premium draft pick on one, Borom could easily wind up earning the starting job.
If that’s the case, moving Penei Sewell to left tackle would be in the team's best interests. Borom established this past season that he’s better suited to be a right tackle and hasn’t excelled on the left side.
In his last two seasons with the Chicago Bears, Borom played primarily on the left side and didn’t fare too well in doing so, allowing five sacks and 27 hurries, committing eight penalties across 703 snaps.
With Sewell being a perennial tackle and the Lions moving him to left earlier in the offseason, they would be better off having him there than Borom.
Wherever they decide to play him, Boron should be a great addition to the Lions’ offensive line, and he’s already off on a great foot.