The Detroit Lions took a step back in 2025, as Dan Campbell's group missed the postseason for the first time since 2022 and finished last in the NFC North for the first time since 2021.
Campbell has established a winning culture in Detroit, and though the Lions finished 9-8 last season, it wasn't enough to compete in January or even come close to the division crown. The Chicago Bears, whom the Lions swept in the regular season, took home the North with an 11-6 record.
Entering 2026, Detroit is hungry to be mentioned among the NFC's elite again, and the latest record prediction has the Lions doing just that.
Lions Predicted to Reclaim NFC North With 11-6 Record in 2026
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Bleacher Report's Moe Moton predicted the records and standings for each NFL division in 2026, and in the NFC North, he has the Lions posting an 11-6 season taking back the division, and being the No. 2 seed in the conference. Moton has the Bears coming in second with a 10-7 record, and the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers tallying 9-8 seasons.
Detroit has the talent to be the top team in the North and contend for a championship this season. The offense, led by new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, should return as one of the most productive units in the sport. Quarterback Jared Goff is still playing at a high level, running back Jahmyr Gibbs is a game-breaker, the receiver duo of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williamsis incredibly dynamic, and tight end Sam LaPorta is back healthy.
The offensive line should also be much improved with the additions of Cade Mays in free agency and Blake Miller through Round 1 of the draft, though Mays will miss time in the regular season with a wrist injury.
The deciding factor in how far the Lions can go in 2026 will be the defense. Kelvin Sheppard's unit has the potential to be a solid group, but it must answer questions in the secondary and at edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
It won't be easy for Detroit to get back on top in the NFC North, as the division is arguably the most competitive in the league. However, the pieces are in place for Campbell's squad to post a major bounce-back campaign and be back in Super Bowl talks in a loaded NFC.
