With left tackle Taylor Decker no longer in the picture, it looked like the table was set for offseason arrival Larry Borom to be a full-time starter for the Detroit Lions. Borom has played all over the offensive line, so technically, the Lions could keep Penei Sewell at right tackle and have him on the left, or vice versa.
The Lions gave Borom a one-year, $5 million "prove it" deal, and with more opportunities, he had a chance to prove why he was worthy of a long-term deal. Given the latest draft intel, however, that may no longer be the case.
Lions Could Draft Competition for Larry Borom
Decker's surprising decision to request a release may have changed the Lions' plans.
Bruce Feldman of The Athletic has them going with OT Kadyn Proctor, Mike Luciano of Sidelion Report has them going with OT Monroe Freeling, and Sports Illustrated's Vito Chirco believes they'll take OT Francis Mauigoa.
Regardless of the player, there's a clear need and trend here.
Last week, Lions head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that he believes in Borom as a potential starter, telling site writer Tim Twentyman that, "If we didn't believe that (Borom) was a guy who could start, then we wouldn't do it."
Even though it's great to have a coach's confidence, Campbell's instant belief could put Borom in a tough spot and force him to deliver even more. He has to be on his best behavior and outwork the competition in training camp, knowing that he'll be in the spotlight from Day 1.
Borom has never been considered much of an elite tackle, and he's only started in 38 of 63 career games, but he's a serviceable guy who can make an impact on multiple spots of the offensive line. As such, he should still find a way to get on the field often, especially if someone gets hurt.
Having said that, Campbell did reveal that the Lions have potential backup plans for Borom should he not work out as a starter.
"We also know, all right, if that's not quite it, (Larry) is a swing tackle and can play jumbo tight end. He gives us so much flexibility as a baseline. He gives us a floor, and we like him, and we feel like he fits us too."Dan Campbell, Lions HC
Of course, the Lions can still surprise everybody and pivot to add a skill player instead. However, given the obvious need for a long-term solution in the trenches, fans can't rule out competition being added for Borom. He's given up 22 sacks in five years in the league, according to Pro Football Focus, and it's not like they have the most mobile quarterback in Jared Goff.
That's why Borom clearly has the most to lose with the 2026 NFL draft just around the corner. His early praise from Campbell doesn't make him exempt from being replaced, which is why it's crucial to capitalize on any opportunities he'll see as offseason workouts begin on Monday, April 20.