The roar at Ford Field may be quiet for now, but behind the scenes the Lions are gearing up for an offseason that could redefine the future of the franchise.
The Detroit Lions enter the 2026 offseason facing one of the most pivotal stretches of the Brad Holmes era. Decisions made over the next several month, from the NFL draft to coaching hires to contract moves, will shape whether Detroit can build on recent success or take a step back in an increasingly competitive NFC. With that in mind, three bold predictions stand out as realistic possibilities, each carrying significant implications for the Lions’ future.
Hot take No. 1: The Lions cut or trade running back David Montgomery
David Montgomery has been a foundational piece of Detroit’s offense for the past three seasons, providing toughness, reliability and leadership in the backfield. However, circumstances may be aligning for a surprising separation. Jahmyr Gibbs remains on his rookie contract and continues to elevate his play, making him the clear centerpiece of the Lions’ running game.
Montgomery’s production dipped in 2025, as he posted career lows in carries, rushing yards and touchdowns during his tenure in Detroit. While his impact often went beyond the stat sheet, his reduced role was noticeable. Lions general manager Brad Holmes recently acknowledged Montgomery’s situation, saying, “He deserves to be in a situation where his skill set can be utilized,” a comment that raised eyebrows across the fan base.
Adding to the speculation, Montgomery briefly liked a social media post suggesting he was underutilized and should seek a trade. Although the post was later unliked, it fueled conversation about his future. If Detroit were to move on, the Lions could save roughly $4 million in cap space — flexibility that could be valuable this offseason. Should Montgomery depart, he would still be remembered as one of Holmes’ best free-agent signings.
Hot take No. 2: Detroit hires Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator
Miami parted ways with head coach Mike McDaniel, the Lions found themselves with a rare opportunity. McDaniel, who has coached in the NFL since 2005, rose to prominence during his time as the San Francisco 49ers’ offensive coordinator in 2021. That season, San Francisco won the NFC West and reached the NFC Championship Game, with McDaniel widely credited for maximizing Jimmy Garoppolo’s efficiency.
McDaniel’s offensive philosophy emphasizes speed, spacing and creativity — traits that align well with Detroit’s personnel. His experience coaching elite speed threats such as Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane makes the hypothetical pairing intriguing. A McDaniel-led offense featuring Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Jahmyr Gibbs would give Detroit one of the league’s most dynamic skill groups.
While hiring a former head coach as coordinator is never guaranteed, the fit is compelling enough to consider realistic.
Hot take No. 3: Lions trade into the top 10 to draft an offensive lineman
Detroit’s offensive line has been a strength for years, but changes may be coming. Taylor Decker’s future remains uncertain, and planning ahead is essential. Trading into the top 10 to secure a franchise tackle would be a bold but forward-thinking move.
Two prospects stand out: Utah’s Spencer Fano and Francis Mauigoa. Fano, listed at 6-foot-6 and 300 pounds, projects as a powerful left tackle and potential long-term replacement for Decker. Mauigoa is widely regarded as the more polished prospect but profiles primarily as a right tackle.
While aggressive, such a move would signal Detroit’s commitment to sustaining elite line play.
Each of these predictions carries risk, but all three remain firmly within reach, and could define the Lions’ next step forward.