The Detroit Lions have reshaped their roster, changed key coaches and could be heading into one of the most explosive seasons in franchise history. If everything clicks in 2026, Detroit might not just be good — they could dominate the NFL.
As the NFL offseason moves into its next phase, most of the major free agents have already been signed, and the Detroit Lions have been busy reshaping their roster. Detroit signed 12 new players, re-signed five of its own and made several notable roster moves, including releasing left tackle Taylor Decker and trading running back David Montgomery. With the NFL Draft approaching, the Lions are still building their roster, but before draft season fully takes over, here are three bold predictions for the 2026 season.
Lions win 15 games
This may sound bold, but it is not unrealistic. The Lions won 15 games just two seasons ago, and the roster remains strong on both sides of the ball. One of the biggest reasons for optimism is the coaching staff. New offensive coordinator Drew Petzing is expected to bring more consistency and creativity to the offense compared to last season, and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard will be entering his second year running the defense, which should lead to improvement and continuity.
Detroit is also expected to have a favorable schedule. The Lions are set to play 10 games against teams that did not make the playoffs in 2025, which could give them a significant advantage in the standings. Matchups against teams like the Miami Dolphins, Tennessee Titans, New York Jets and New York Giants — teams that struggled last season — could help Detroit stack wins early in the year. If the Lions take care of business against weaker opponents and split games with stronger teams, a 15-win season is very possible.
Kerby Joseph plays 15 games
This might be the boldest prediction of the three. Safety Kerby Joseph missed 11 games last season with an undisclosed knee injury, and there was plenty of speculation from fans about the severity of the injury. At one point, some even wondered if the injury could threaten his career.
Joseph stayed mostly quiet on social media during the season but has recently become active again, which many fans see as a positive sign. Lions general manager Brad Holmes has provided modest updates, saying Joseph is on pace in his recovery and has not suffered any setbacks.
Last season, there were reports that Joseph might return later in the year, but a setback eventually landed him on season-ending injured reserve. If he can stay healthy in 2026, it would be a major boost for the Lions defense. Joseph was one of the league’s top defensive playmakers in 2023 when he led the NFL in interceptions and earned First-Team All-Pro honors. A healthy Joseph would go a long way toward helping Detroit reach that 15-win prediction.
Lions lead the league in total points and offensive yards
The third bold prediction is that Detroit will have the most explosive offense in the NFL in 2026. The Lions have elite offensive weapons, including running back Jahmyr Gibbs, wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, and tight end Sam LaPorta. With that group of playmakers, the offense has the potential to be one of the best in the league.
Last season, the Lions offense struggled early in the year but improved significantly later in the season after coaching adjustments were made. Quarterback Jared Goff has been playing some of the best football of his career, and the combination of his experience and Detroit’s offensive weapons could lead to a huge season offensively.
Petzing could also play a major role in tight end production. He previously worked with tight end Trey McBride, helping him develop into one of the top tight ends in the league. If LaPorta takes another step forward under Petzing, the Lions offense could become extremely difficult to stop.
Overall
These predictions are bold, but they are not impossible. The Lions have a talented roster, an improving coaching staff and a favorable schedule. There is a realistic chance that at least one of these predictions comes true, and if everything goes right, Detroit could be one of the top teams in the NFL in 2026.