What would it cost to sign Taylor Decker?

Taylor Decker remains one of the more intriguing veteran offensive line names connected to hypothetical contenders, and if the Los Angeles Rams decided to make the move, the biggest question would not be fit - it would be price.

The starting point for any projection is Spotrac.

According to Spotrac's calculated market value model, Decker currently projects at 2 years, $42.65 million total ($21.3 million per year average annual value) after becoming available following his release from Detroit.

That number immediately creates an interesting discussion for Los Angeles.

Decker is not arriving as a developmental player or a bridge starter. He would be arriving as a veteran left tackle with a decade of NFL experience and multiple high-level seasons protecting the blind side. His most recent extension with Detroit averaged $20 million annually, suggesting Spotrac believes his market has largely held despite his age entering his age-33 season.

For the Rams, however, matching full market value feels unlikely.

A more realistic structure may look something like this:

3 years
$56-57 million total value
$18-19 million AAV
$25-30 million guaranteed
Incentives tied to starts, playoff appearances, and offensive snap percentage.

Why lower than Spotrac's market estimate?

First, Los Angeles historically prefers maintaining flexibility rather than carrying multiple top-of-market offensive line contracts. The Rams also appear positioned to preserve future cap room with extensions eventually looming elsewhere on the roster.

Second, Decker's leverage depends heavily on whether teams view him as a pure left tackle or as an aging veteran who may eventually transition roles.

Would the Rams pay the full Spotrac number of $22+ million per season? Probably not.

Could they lessen his cap hit in 2026 and potentially make his 2027 and/or 2028 cap hit more? That feels much more realistic.

If Decker ultimately signs in Los Angeles, expect the deal to land closer to 3 years, $57 million, enough to respect his market, but still leave the Rams room to manipulate his cap hit in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

As it stands currently, the Rams have $18.8 million in cap space for 2026. The team has still yet to sign Ty Simpson to his rookie contract.