Learnings from working with Taylor Decker this offseason for Giovanni Manu, a second-year offensive lineman
Second-year offensive lineman Giovanni Manu’s offseason experience working alongside veteran Taylor Decker has been a transformative period in his development as a professional football player. The transition from rookie to a more seasoned player in the NFL is never easy, especially for offensive linemen who face a steep learning curve filled with complex schemes, intense physical demands, and mental preparation. Manu’s opportunity to work with Decker — a proven leader and accomplished lineman — provided him not only with technical guidance but also with invaluable lessons in professionalism, preparation, and mindset. This offseason mentorship has helped shape Manu’s approach to the game and elevated his readiness for the challenges ahead.
Giovanni Manu came into the league with tremendous potential. His rookie year showed flashes of athleticism and grit, but also revealed areas needing refinement. As a second-year player, the expectations naturally rise, and the margin for error shrinks. The NFL is unforgiving, and linemen who fail to adapt quickly find themselves on the sidelines. Recognizing this, Manu approached the offseason with a hunger to learn and grow. The chance to work closely with Taylor Decker, who had already established himself as one of the top offensive tackles in the league, was a pivotal moment. Decker’s experience and knowledge became a living textbook for Manu.
One of the most immediate lessons Manu learned from Decker was the importance of fundamentals. While raw athleticism can get a player through early stages, the NFL demands technical precision, especially in offensive line play. Decker emphasized mastering the basics — stance, footwork, hand placement, leverage — all essential to winning one-on-one battles at the line of scrimmage. Manu recalls countless hours spent drilling these fundamentals, often repeating the same movements hundreds of times to build muscle memory. Decker’s attention to detail in these areas highlighted how small adjustments could make a significant difference in effectiveness and durability.
Beyond technique, Manu absorbed from Decker the value of preparation. Decker’s offseason routine was rigorous and methodical, including film study, physical conditioning, and mental reps. Watching Decker approach preparation with such discipline inspired Manu to elevate his own habits. Film study became a cornerstone of Manu’s routine, as he learned to recognize defensive tendencies, blitz packages, and stunts before they happened. Decker showed him how to break down opponents, not just to anticipate their moves but to understand the why behind those moves. This deeper knowledge allowed Manu to react quicker and make smarter decisions on the field.
Physical conditioning was another critical area where Manu benefited from Decker’s example. The veteran lineman stressed the importance of staying strong and flexible throughout the year, not just during the season. Decker’s offseason training was not just about gaining bulk but improving functional strength, balance, and agility. Manu adopted similar workouts focused on core strength, explosive power, and injury prevention. The emphasis on conditioning translated into better endurance during practice and games, helping Manu maintain a high level of play even in late-game situations.
Mental toughness was perhaps the most profound lesson Manu took from his work with Decker. Football is a physically demanding sport, but the mental grind can be even more taxing. Decker’s calm demeanor and resilience in the face of adversity showed Manu how to maintain composure under pressure. Whether facing a dominant pass rusher or dealing with a bad call from officials, Decker’s approach was to stay focused, trust his preparation, and execute his technique consistently. Manu learned that mental strength comes from confidence in one’s abilities and preparation, not just from physical talent.
Decker also provided mentorship in leadership and professionalism. As a second-year player, Manu was beginning to assume more responsibility within the team’s offensive line unit. Decker, as a team captain and veteran, modeled how to lead by example — both on and off the field. Manu observed how Decker held himself accountable, communicated effectively with teammates, and remained approachable yet authoritative. This exposure helped Manu understand that being a good teammate involves more than individual effort; it’s about fostering trust, cohesion, and a positive culture among the group.
An important part of Manu’s learning curve was the understanding of the nuances of offensive line play that only experience can teach. Decker helped break down complex blocking schemes and adjustments required during plays. The NFL game is dynamic, and linemen must communicate quickly to pick up blitzes, adjust protection calls, or slide the line. Decker’s ability to read the defense pre-snap and make the right calls was a skill Manu admired and sought to develop. Through film sessions and practice reps, Decker taught Manu how to anticipate defensive moves and coordinate with the rest of the line, enhancing the unit’s overall effectiveness.
Additionally, Manu learned about the importance of recovery and injury prevention from Decker. NFL offensive linemen endure a punishing physical toll, and staying healthy over the long season is critical. Decker stressed proactive recovery techniques, including nutrition, hydration, stretching, and proper rest. Manu adopted many of these habits, recognizing that recovery is as much a part of training as the workouts themselves. This holistic approach to health gave Manu greater awareness of how to manage his body to perform at his best consistently.
The relationship between Manu and Decker also fostered a sense of confidence. Transitioning from rookie uncertainty to a player who believes he can compete at the highest level requires encouragement and support. Decker’s mentorship reassured Manu that his progress was on the right path and that setbacks were part of the process. This support helped Manu develop a growth mindset — viewing mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. It empowered him to push through tough practice sessions and approach game day with greater self-assurance.
Furthermore, Decker shared insights into the lifestyle and mindset needed to sustain a long NFL career. Manu learned about balancing the demands of football with personal life, managing expectations, and handling media attention. Decker’s candid conversations about the highs and lows of professional sports provided Manu with a realistic perspective. This guidance prepared Manu mentally for the journey ahead, highlighting the importance of consistency, patience, and resilience over the long haul.
Another subtle but significant lesson was the power of communication. Offensive line play is one of the most coordinated aspects of football, requiring constant verbal and non-verbal communication among five players. Decker taught Manu how to communicate clearly and efficiently, especially in noisy and high-pressure environments. They worked on hand signals, calls, and subtle cues to ensure the line moved as a cohesive unit. This teamwork and synergy are crucial for executing complex blocking schemes and protecting the quarterback.
Off the field, Decker’s professionalism set a standard for Manu to emulate. Whether it was punctuality, preparation for meetings, or attitude during rehab sessions, Decker’s behavior exemplified the habits of a consummate professional. Manu absorbed these lessons, understanding that success in the NFL isn’t solely determined by physical talent but by a comprehensive approach to every aspect of being a professional athlete.
The offseason collaboration between Manu and Decker also underscored the importance of mentorship in football. Veterans like Decker play a vital role in shaping the next generation, passing down wisdom and smoothing the transition from college to the pros. Manu’s growth this offseason is a testament to how effective mentorship can accelerate development and build confidence in younger players. Their relationship exemplifies how football is not just about individual performance but about collective growth and leadership.
As the season approaches, Manu feels more prepared and confident than ever before. The lessons learned from Decker have equipped him with a toolkit of skills and attitudes necessary to thrive in the NFL. He recognizes that the journey is ongoing and that continuous learning and adaptation are essential. But with the foundation built this offseason, Manu is poised to take a significant step forward in his career.
In sum, Giovanni Manu’s offseason working with Taylor Decker has been a crucial chapter in his development. From refining fundamentals and improving technique to adopting a professional mindset and embracing leadership roles, Manu’s growth reflects the invaluable impact of veteran mentorship. The experience has not only enhanced his on-field capabilities but also helped him mature as a player and teammate. As Manu continues to build on these lessons, he embodies the promising future of the Detroit Lions’ offensive line, ready to contribute at a higher level and help the team succeed.
