During the 2023 and 2024 NFL seasons, Detroit Lions fans witnessed two of the most memorable years in franchise history, as the team won back-to-back NFC North Division titles and two playoff wins. After last season’s disappointing 9-8 finish, Lions fans are hoping that Detroit can return to the dominance that rallied an entire city two short years ago.Â
According to a recent NFL Spin Zone’s playoff prediction ahead of the NFL Draft, Lions fans may just be getting their wish next season. The Lions are projected to win the NFC North and earn the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, says Lou Scataglia of the site.
"Detroit's roster, you could argue, is the best in the NFC. With the Lions, health was a huge part of why they missed the playoffs, and teams just simply do not remain highly injured like this year over year. A healthier team, elite offense, and a defense that has enough talent will be plenty good enough to win the NFC North."
Who are the Lions predicted to face in the NFL playoffs?
The San Francisco 49ers are projected to be the No. 7 seed in the NFC, which would set up a 2024 NFC Championship rematch at Ford Field in the Wild Card Round.
Lions fans know the story all too well. The Lions were 30 minutes removed from securing their first trip to the Super Bowl in franchise history with a 24-7 lead over the 49ers at halftime. Lions fans would like to forget what happened in the second half.Â
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If this match-up were to come true, the Lions look to secure their revenge over the 49ers. The Los Angeles Rams, who look to get back to the Super Bowl next season at their home stadium, are projected to be the No. 1 seed in the NFC.Â
Other projected NFC playoff teams
The Dallas Cowboys (No. 3), New Orleans Saints (No. 4), Seattle Seahawks (No. 5), and Green Bay Packers (No. 6) are projected to be the other NFC teams to make the playoffs. The Chicago Bears and former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson missing the postseason is a prediction that Lions fans will love. Â
Last season, despite losing to Detroit twice, Johnson's success in his first season as the Bears' coach annoyed Lions fans, especially with Chicago’s miraculous last-minute comeback wins. The Bears finished with an 11-6 overall record and won the NFC North before falling to the Los Angeles Rams 20-17 in an overtime classic at Soldier Field.Â
Detroit is set up nicely for a comeback year following a strange, injury-riddled 2025 season.