The Detroit Lions posted their worst season since 2021 last year, as Dan Campbell’s group posted a 9-8 record and was last in the NFC North after winning the division the previous two seasons.
A lot went wrong for Detroit in 2025. The defense fell apart toward the end of the year, and though the offense was still dynamic, the unit took a step back with the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is now the Chicago Bears head coach. John Morton served as Johnson’s replacement, but he lost play-calling duties midseason and was fired.
Though the Lions fell out of the elite tier of teams in the NFC last season, everything is aligning for Detroit to have a major bounce-back campaign in 2026.
ESPN Lists Lions Among Top Teams Most Likely to Improve in 2026
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
In an article detailing teams most likely to rebound this year, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell had the Lions near the top. Barnwell believes Detroit will overcome its lack of depth to return to the postseason and potentially make noise as a top contender in the NFC.
Talent-wise, there aren’t many rosters better than the Lions. The team has All-Pro-level players at multiple positions on both sides of the ball, and an experienced head coach in Campbell, who is also one of the best leaders of men in the NFL.
The major questions Detroit are facing is depth on the offensive line and secondary, and whether new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing can elevate the offense to the next level. If the Lions answer these questions, and their star players continue to be productive, a playoff return is all but guaranteed.
However, winning the Super Bowl is always the goal for Detroit, given how much money they have invested in their core pieces. We’ll see whether the Lions can finally get over the hump and come out of a loaded NFC to play for their first Lombardi Trophy in February 2027.
