While the Detroit Lions should get a much easier go of it in 2026 thanks to a very easy schedule, there are still some doubts around their ability to maximize their talent on both sides of the ball. That's a lingering question as the team has avoided bigger swings on top talent on the trade market or in free agency, and has decided to "bet on themselves" amid a very tough NFC North.
There's nothing wrong with having confidence in this roster. However, insiders like those mentioned by Jason La Canfora in his latest roundup of bold predictions for the 2026 season seem to think that Detroit is literally becoming the definition of insanity: running the same team out over and over again, all while expecting a different result.
In his section on the Lions, and following a prediction from one insider that they'll be last in the NFC North, La Canfora shares that that same insider said: “Goff [is not] the same without Johnson."
La Canfora added:
"People around the league seem to feel like Detroit may have missed its window and will regret not being more aggressive in recent offseasons and deadlines. (You can get 4-1 odds on this playing out). The Lions refused to make moves as an ownership group to put them over the top, and they will regret it. Like not grabbing Garrett or even really trying."
Detroit not given much hype from insider ahead of 2026 season
Not all of the NFC North made drastic changes this offseason. The Minnesota Vikings, with a strong defense in tow, might've found their ideal quarterback in Kyler Murray. That could be threatening to the division, as Minnesota was really one QB away from being an actual contender for the divisional title.
As for Green Bay, they'll be getting Micah Parsons back at some point this season, and that's a major test for the Lions' new-look offensive line after he very comfortably handled them in the regular season last year. And, the Chicago Bears are looking forward to an even greater season from Caleb Williams, who just seems like the kind of phenom to keep reaching, and surpassing, ceilings set for him.
READ MORE: Two Lions sophomores tabbed to take huge leaps in 2026
So...sure. It's fair to say that the Lions, with their known injury issues for key players and lack of movement in free agency, could be getting off on the wrong foot against NFC North competition in 2026. But, to write Goff off, as well as the entire offense, after that was far from their issue in 2025, feels a bit exaggerative.
Detroit has chemistry, longevity, and experience on their side against every team in the division. They've got a superstar pass rusher, and a superstar running back in tow. And, they addressed two huge holes on their roster by getting Blake Miller and Cade Mays for their offensive line, and through a solid draft that landed them Derrick Moore and a steal in Keith Abney II.
These Goff-based takes are beginning to taste stale. The defense might be the Lions' biggest question mark headed into this season, but Goff feels like the steadiest factor in the teams' success for 2026.
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