Training camp is on the horizon for the Detroit Lions, as the team's rookies are set to report on July 25, followed by the veterans on July 28.
After missing the playoffs in 2025, the Lions will look to rebound and prove that they have what it takes to compete for a Super Bowl in 2026. If these three bold predictions come to fruition, Detroit could find themselves as one of the top contenders for the Lombardi Trophy.
Jahmyr Gibbs will Win Offensive Player of the Year
In just three seasons, Gibbs has established himself as arguably the best running back in football and one of the most dynamic playmakers in Lions history. The 24-year-old has tallied over 1,800 scrimmage yards and 18 total touchdowns in each of the last two years, and also had a career-high 77 receptions and 616 yards in 2025.
Entering 2026, Gibbs has been handed the keys as Detroit's workhorse back. With the Lions trading away David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, Gibbs' touches are only going to increase. Isiah Pacheco and Sione Vaki should provide adequate depth in the running back room behind Gibbs, but neither will receive substantial work.
Gibbs already has the talent and skill set to be the best offensive player in the NFL, but he'll now receive the opportunity to be a true RB1 with Montgomery out of the picture. 2026 should be a career year for the Alabama product that could be topped off with some hardware.
The Lions will Boast the Best Wide Receiver Trio in the League
Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
The Lions already have one of the most explosive and productive wide receiver duos in the league with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. However, if Isaac TeSlaa takes another step forward in his development, Detroit could have a three-headed monster at receiver better than anyone else.
TeSlaa had just 16 catches during his rookie campaign in 2025, but six of those receptions went for touchdowns. Due to his 6-foot-4 frame and athleticism, TeSlaa is a lethal red zone threat and also excels in contested catch situations.
With Kalif Raymond departing for the Chicago Bears in free agency, TeSlaa is now the bona fide No. 3 receiver, and don't be surprised if he emerges as a reliable playmaker for quarterback Jared Goff, along with St. Brown and Williams.
A Year 2 breakout from TeSlaa would take Detroit's passing attack to new heights, and give the Lions a trio of receivers with the perfect blend of speed, size, and route-running savvy.
Derrick Moore will Lead All NFL Rookies in Sacks
Detroit will need someone in the edge rusher group to step up and provide viable pass-rushing production opposite Aidan Hutchinson, and Moore could be that guy. The rookie out of Michigan tallied 10 sacks during his final collegiate season in 2025, and his powerful pass-rushing skill set pairs well with Hutchinson.
Moore will be fighting for a starting spot at edge rusher in training camp with veteran D.J. Wonnum. Though Wonnum is more experienced, Moore possesses much more promise, and the Lions invested a second-round pick, so why not let him see the field early?
Playing across from Hutchinson would open up plenty of opportunities for Moore, and if the 23-year-old can continue his momentum from 2025 with the Wolverines into the NFL with the Lions, we could see the rookie pass rusher post prolific numbers.
