Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Lions Links for Wednesday 10-21-26

Articles:






3 Lions Impacted Most by Brian Branch's Return from Injury:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/3-lions-impacted-most-brian-branch-return-from-injury

Pros and Cons of Detroit Lions Signing RB Najee Harris:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/pros-cons-detroit-lions-signing-najee-harris

Why Lions Like Center Cade Mays Over Juice Scruggs Against Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/why-lions-like-center-cade-mays-over-juice-scruggs-against-packers

Kerby Joseph Posts Intense Workout: Will Safety Play in 2026?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/kerby-joseph-posts-intense-workout-will-safety-play-in-2026


Dan Campbell hints at who will play alongside Brian Branch at safety:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-news/177608/brian-branch-return-safety-teammates-lineup-packers


5 Lions vs. Packers thoughts after watching Green Bay’s win over Cowboys:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-analysis/177416/5-lions-packers-thoughts-green-bays-win-cowboys


3 Sam LaPorta trades the Lions would have to consider, including one that solves their biggest problem:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/3-sam-laporta-trades-the-lions-would-have-to-consider-including-one-that-solves-their-biggest-problem/

Sam LaPorta just said what he’s been feeling about the Lions, and Detroit should probably take it seriously, because it is not good at all:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/sam-laporta-just-said-what-hes-been-feeling-about-the-lions-and-detroit-should-probably-take-it-seriously-because-it-is-not-good-at-all/

Lions mailbag: Gibbs or Goff for MVP, who Detroit could trade for, and can this secondary reach a Super Bowl?:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-mailbag-gibbs-or-goff-for-mvp-who-detroit-could-trade-for-and-can-this-secondary-reach-a-super-bowl/

The first thing the Lions need to know about Green Bay: The Packers are built to attack Detroit’s biggest problem:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-first-thing-the-lions-need-to-know-about-green-bay-the-packers-are-built-to-attack-detroits-biggest-problem/

Dan Campbell just named 4 Lions practice squad players who are starting to make some noise:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/dan-campbell-just-named-4-lions-practice-squad-players-who-are-starting-to-make-some-noise/



Will the Lions Extend Sam LaPorta? His Pardon My Take Comments Say Time Is Running Out:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/sam-laporta-lions-extension-pardon-my-take

Lions Coach Reveals Tom Kennedy's Difficult-to-Replace Quality After Veteran Receiver Lands on IR:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-coach-reveals-tom-kennedys-difficult-to-replace-quality-after-veteran-receiver-lands-on-ir

The Toughest Decision Dan Campbell Must Make Before Critical NFC North Clash vs. Packers:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/the-toughest-decision-dan-campbell-must-make-before-critical-nfc-north-clash-vs-packers

Lions Linked to a DT With 27.5 Sacks Since 2023 and No Guaranteed Money After 2026:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/lions-linked-to-a-dt-with-27-5-sacks-since-2023-and-no-guaranteed-money-after-2026

Lions Named a Fit for a Pass Rusher Less Than Two Years Into a Four-Year Deal:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-josh-sweat-cardinals-trade

Fueled by competition, Christian Mahogany emerging as X-factor for Lions:   https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/christian-mahogany-lions-2678115721

'An elite player in this league': Lions hope Branch's return will transform defense:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50232574/lions-brian-branch-injury-return-cade-mays-packers

TE LaPorta: Will 'go get paid somewhere else' if no Lions deal:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50240100/sam-laporta-extension-not-feeling-love-lions

NFL wide receiver rankings: Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads after Week 6, Mike Evans rises to No. 2 (18. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions (down 3):  St. Brown ranks sixth at the position with 55 targets so far this season, and every player with more targets has played one more game than he has. Despite that target volume, the production has been just OK from the Lions’ top target. His 1.92 yards per route run ranks 26th among wide receivers with at least 20 targets.  26. Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions (no change):  Williams and the Lions were on a bye in Week 6, and his ranking remains unchanged. He has averaged 15.3 yards per catch this season, ranking 15th at the position, but his 18.2% drop rate is the seventh-highest among wide receivers.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-wide-receiver-rankings

2026 NFL offensive line rankings: Lions retain top spot, Browns ascend (1. Detroit Lions (no change):  The Lions were on a bye this week and retain the top spot they held after Week 5. Penei Sewell has earned a PFF grade above 90.0 in two of the past three games after a slow start, having switched to left tackle, but the biggest story is how quickly right tackle Blake Miller has looked comfortable in the NFL. He has yet to allow a sack in the first four games of his NFL career, and has surrendered just nine pressures from 166 pass-blocking snaps.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-offensive-line-rankings-2026

NFL MVP power rankings Week 7: Who's No. 1 as MVP race takes another turn? (Honorable mention: RB Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions - Gibbs is third in the NFL in scrimmage yards (747) despite playing in only five games thanks to the Lions' Week 6 bye. The rising star running back is also first in the league with his nine touchdowns from scrimmage – one ahead of Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, Kenneth Walker and Javonte Williams.):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/21/nfl-quarterback-ranks-whats-wrong-dak-prescott-matthew-stafford/92344088007/

NFL Playoff Picture Week 7: All 4 NFC North teams are in the field for now (7. Lions:  It has been an uneven start thus far for the Lions, but they're in the playoff field as of now, thanks to an offense that puts up the second-most points per game at 32.8. The problem, of course, is a defense that gives up nearly 30 points and more than 400 yards per game. They have shown a better pass rush, and the secondary could welcome Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph back at some point, but vast improvement is needed. They're coming off a bye with two huge games at home upcoming against the Packers and Vikings. Win those and the Lions can really help their chances of reclaiming the NFC North.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/nfl-playoff-picture-week-7-all-4-nfc-north-teams-are-in-the-field-for-now-224354556.html

Sam LaPorta Ripped the Lions Over Contract Talks. Here’s What Could Happen Next.:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/sam-laporta-contract-talks-what-could-happen-next

NFL Defense Rankings Week 7: Vikings Stand Alone, Chiefs Rise, Cowboys and Lions Hit Bottom (F Tier: Cardinals, Saints, Dolphins, Bills, Cowboys, Lions. The most fascinating teams in the tier are Buffalo and Detroit because neither resembles a rebuilding club. The Bills and Lions have two of the NFL’s most productive offenses, but their defenses have created an enormous burden for Josh Allen, Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, and the rest of those units.  Detroit sits last in PFN Defense Impact with a 68.2 grade while allowing 29.6 points per game. Buffalo isn’t much better, ranking near the bottom of the league while allowing 28.5 points per game. As Chadwick noted, both teams have legitimate championship aspirations, which makes their defensive problems much more significant than those of a team already looking toward the future.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-defense-rankings-week-7/

‘You Will Be Getting Traded,’ ‘Not the Kind of Comments You Want To Hear’ — Lions Fans Fire Back at Sam LaPorta’s Complaint Over Contract:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/lions-fans-sam-laporta-contract/



QB Rankings:

2026 NFL Quarterback Power Rankings, Week 7: Brock Purdy holds No. 1 as Josh Allen rises (3. Jared Goff Detroit Lions QB:  Jared Goff has 12 passing touchdowns, two behind Purdy, Trevor Lawrence and Kirk Cousins for the league lead, and zero interceptions in 2026. Goff is also the second quarterback in NFL history with 1,400-plus yards passing (1,485) and no turnovers through five games, along with Drew Brees in the 2018 season. Fresh off his Week 6 bye, Goff still ranks third in the NFL in passer rating (111.3) and fourth in EPA per dropback (0.29). (No change)):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2026-nfl-qb-power-rankings-week-7-brock-purdy-josh-allen/

NFL quarterback rankings: Brock Purdy moves to No. 1, Matthew Stafford falls (5. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions (up 2):  Goff jumps into the top five despite the Lions being on a bye week. Goff leads the NFL in PFF passing grade at 86.1 through the opening six weeks of the season. His 4.6% big-time throw rate ranks ninth at the position, but crucially, his 0.5% turnover-worthy play rate is the best among quarterbacks with at least 60 dropbacks.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-quarterback-rankings

NFL QB rankings, Week 7: Dak Prescott hits season low; C.J. Stroud eclipses Patrick Mahomes (5. Jared Goff - 2026 stats: 5 games | 67.0 pct | 1485 pass yds | 7.8 ypa | 12 pass TDs | 0 INTs | 16 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 4 fumbles.  Jared Goff’s Lions were on a bye, but if you’re in the market for a quietly excellent quarterback, he’s your man.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-qb-rankings-index-week-7-2026-nfl-season

Packers Media:



Video - Matt LaFleur explains why Lions' offense is so challenging to defend:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/matt-lafleur-explains-why-lions-203917945.html

Video - Packers Coach Matt LaFleur on Lions QB Jared Goff:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/packers-coach-matt-lafleur-lions-192339411.html

Video - Packers DC Jonathan Gannon on Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/packers-dc-jonathan-gannon-lions-190209734.html

Video:






How do you see the NFC North playing out? | 'GMFB':  https://www.nfl.com/videos/how-do-you-see-the-nfc-north-playing-out-gmfb

NFL Lessons Learned With Detroit Lions Away Due to Bye Week:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/nfl-lessons-learned-detroit-lions-212408266.html

How big of a deal is Brian Branch's return for the Detroit Lions?:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/big-deal-brian-branchs-return-180908501.html

Detroit Lions Have Dilemma With OL Juice Scruggs:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/detroit-lions-dilemma-ol-juice-130904435.html

What Colts Firing GM Chris Ballard Means For Detroit Lions:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/colts-firing-gm-chris-ballard-191828050.html
Posted by LionsFan at 8:04 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Lions Links for Tuesday 10-20-26

Articles:

NOTEBOOK: How the game is slowing down for Ratledge in Year 2:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/notebook-the-game-is-slowing-down-for-ratledge-in-year-2-goff-mccreary-joseph




Lions' defensive trio dominating NFL quarterback pressure rankings:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2026/10/20/detroit-lions-pff-pressures/92261003007/



Lions Biggest Need Ahead of NFL Trade Deadline Is Painfully Obvious:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-biggest-need-ahead-of-2026-nfl-trade-deadline-painfully-obvious

Detroit Lions Bring Back Rookie DL, Cut DL Chris Smith:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-bring-back-rookie-dl-cut-dl-chris-smith

Detroit Lions Week 7 Tuesday Practice Report Sees Full Attendance:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-week-seven-tuesday-practice-report-sees-full-attendance

Mike Valenti Shares Bold Feelings About Lions Not Landing Joey Porter Jr.:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/mike-valenti-shares-bold-feelings-lions-not-landing-joey-porter-jr

Lions 2026 Playoff Standings Update: Divisional Showdowns Loom Large:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-2026-playoff-standings-update-divisional-showdowns-loom-large






Brian Branch’s return changes the Lions’ entire safety plan, and Dan Campbell just hinted at who starts next to him:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/brian-branchs-return-changes-the-lions-entire-safety-plan-and-dan-campbell-just-hinted-at-who-starts-next-to-him/

Dan Campbell gives his clearest answer yet on Kerby Joseph’s 2026 status, and it raises one big question for the Lions:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/dan-campbell-gives-his-clearest-answer-yet-on-kerby-josephs-2026-status-and-it-raises-one-big-question-for-the-lions/

4 Lions trade ideas Detroit should absolutely avoid before the deadline, including one of my own:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/4-lions-trade-ideas-detroit-should-absolutely-avoid-before-the-deadline-including-one-of-my-own/

The Lions need one thing more than anything after the bye, and the last 2 seasons show exactly why:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-need-one-thing-more-than-anything-after-the-bye-and-the-last-2-seasons-show-exactly-why/

Detroit Lions Are Facing a Center Decision Before Their First Division Test:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/cade-mays-juice-scruggs-center-decision-injury-update-starter

Dan Campbell expects Kerby Joseph to play this season: "At some point it's time for football":   https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/kerby-joseph-lions-2678112744

Why Campbell feels better about Lions at 3-2 this year than 5-2 last year:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/dan-campbell-lions-2678108845

QB Accuracy Report: NFL Week 7 (11. Jared Goff - PFF grade:  86.1):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-qb-accuracy-report

Can Lions defense turn corner with healthy Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph?:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/lions-kerby-joseph-brian-branch-can-detroit-defense-turn-corner/

NFL trade deadline: Saquon Barkley to Seahawks among 10 moves that need to happen (Riq Woolen to Lions - The defensive backfield situation in Detroit is bleak, and that might be putting it nicely. The NFL's worst pass defense is desperate for help at each secondary position, while Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph remain out with injuries at safety, and the cornerback unit still has not recovered from the loss of Terrion Arnold.  Since the Lions keep scoring at an elite level and own plenty of pieces on the rest of the defense, there might not be a more glaring missing link for a postseason contender than their secondary. They will likely be aggressive at the trade deadline.  Riq Woolen should be there for the taking as the Eagles potentially tear everything down. He signed with them in March on a one-year contract, and given that he is still in his prime, it seems unlikely that he would re-sign with Philadelphia if they commit to a rebuild.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-trade-deadline-10-moves-saquon-barkley-seahawks/

2026 NFL MVP rankings after Week 6: Jordan Love shines vs. Cowboys (7. Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions) - NFL: Detroit Lions at Arizona Cardinals.  Gibbs is ranked inside the top 5 in rushing yards and touchdowns through Week 6. The Lions may have countless offensive weapons, but the team’s RB1 looks by far the most dynamic. He’s certainly in the MVP consideration for his rushing and pass-catching abilities.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/2026-nfl-mvp-rankings-week-6-jordan-love-cowboys/

Week 7 NFL MVP Power Rankings: Smith-Njigba, Walker III leap upward (6. Jared Goff, QB, Detroit Lions.  9. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Detroit Lions):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/touchdown/2026/10/20/week-7-nfl-mvp-power-rankings-smith-njigba-walker-iii-leap-upward/92349855007/


QB Ranking:

QB Stock Market Week 7: Is C.J. Stroud Back? Is Patrick Mahomes Evolving? (7. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/qb-stock-market-week-7-c-j-stroud-back-patrick-mahomes-evolving

Power Rankings:


Podcast:


Video:








Dan Campbell Is Optimistic After The Bye Week - Are You? | Costa and Jansen:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/dan-campbell-is-optimistic-after-the-bye-week-are-you-costa-and-jansen-xbpvj36

The Detroit Lions should NOT trade for Derwin James:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/detroit-lions-not-trade-derwin-174357067.html

Jared Goff Cannot Repeat Arizona’s First-Quarter Disaster:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/jared-goff-cannot-repeat-arizona-013357922.html


Posted by LionsFan at 7:59 PM 0 comments

Week 7 Power Rankings

TheBigLead (8. Detroit Lions: The Lions had a bye week this past week and are now in last place with their 3-2 record. Both the Bears and Packers won their games and are now sitting at 4-2, just ahead of them. They face the suddenly resurgent Packers in Detroit this week. It should be a great matchup, and a game the Lions desperately need to win.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-power-rankings-entering-week-7-2026/

The Athletic (Power ranking: 9th.  Previous ranking: 12th.  "Fantasy football focus: Jared Goff. Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is the low-hanging fruit. He’s leading all fantasy scorers with 30.7 points per game, but that was expected. How about Goff, who is third among quarterbacks in scoring (23.0 ppg)? The 11-year veteran has 12 touchdowns and no interceptions and is fourth in EPA per dropback (0.29)."):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-week-seven-power-rankings-despite-flaws-team-moves-up

CBS (11. Lions: The bye last week was a good thing for an ailing team as they ready to face the hot Packers this week. The key is improving the bad defense going forward.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/priscos-nfl-week-7-power-rankings-rams-are-a-mess-texans-climb-eight-spots/

USA Today (11. Detroit Lions (12): Still 3-2 after their bye week, they've fallen into the NFC North basement … but that can change fast with the Packers and Vikings coming to Ford Field the next two weeks.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/nate-davis/2026/10/20/nfl-power-rankings-week-7-rams-seahawks-49ers/92337773007/

Yahoo (11. Detroit Lions (3-2, LW: 13) - The Lions' bye was well timed. The next two weeks they host the Packers and Vikings. Those two games will determine if they're a factor in a tough NFC North race. They are also getting reinforcements. Center Cade Mays and safety Brian Branch are expected to return from injuries. The Branch return is very interesting for a defense that needs help, though Branch can't be guaranteed to solve all problems as he comes off a torn Achilles. When healthy, Branch is a difference maker. It remains to be seen if the injury cost him any explosiveness. He won't get a full snap share right away, Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Monday. But just having him and Mays back gives the Lions hope that they can make a statement in the division race over the next two games.):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/nfl-power-rankings-entering-week-7-are-the-2-4-rams-even-a-playoff-team-after-a-miserable-start-034342561.html

SI (11. Detroit Lions (3–2) - Last week’s ranking: No. 11.  Last week’s result: idle.  This week: vs. Packers.  The Packers and Vikings are next on Detroit’s post-bye schedule. We’ll find out immediately if the defense was fixed, has the potential to be fixed, or if Jared Goff is going to continue needing to score 30-plus a week to keep the Lions in the conversation.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/conor-orr-week-7-nfl-power-rankings-rams-packers-cowboys

ESPN (12. Detroit Lions (3-2) - Week 6 result: Bye.  Week 6 ranking: 11.  Biggest issue on offense: Third-down conversions.  Detroit's offense is tied with Buffalo for the most offensive points scored per game (32.8), which has been fueled by a strong start from veteran QB Jared Goff (12 touchdown passes with zero interceptions). But the Lions could improve on third down. They are currently ranked 22nd in third-down conversion percentage at 37.3%. And to go even deeper, Detroit is tied for dead last in third-and-short percentage (third-and-3 or less) at 43.8%. -- Eric Woodyard):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50218886/nfl-power-rankings-week-7-teams-biggest-issue-offense

NFL.com (12.  Detroit Lions:  The Lions did nothing to deserve a one-place drop -- they had a bye week, after all. Chicago’s upward movement prompted the change. Jared Goff is quietly compiling an incredibly efficient season, and the defense finally stepped up in Detroit’s lopsided Week 5 win over Arizona. Wise individuals know not to overlook the Lions.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-power-rankings-week-7-2026-nfl-season

Walter Football (13.  Detroit Lions (3-2)Team Hub - Previously: 11.  The Lions got off to a rocky start against the Cardinals but bounced back incredibly well. Unfortunately for us, Jared Goff couldn't quite complete the ladder, falling just four yards shy of the top rung. We've been snakebitten on those this year, but we'll get them soon.):  https://walterfootball.com/nflpowerrankings.php

Fox sports (13. Detroit Lions - Record: 3-2.  Previous ranking: 14.  Super Bowl odds: +2500 (13th-best).  Dan Campbell did not fire defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard during the bye week, which is interesting considering how bad Sheppard’s defense has been. The Lions are giving up an astonishing 404.4 yards per game, including three games (out of five) where the opponents topped 440 yards and 30 points. It’s a shame, really, because the Lions offense can run up the score on any team in the league, but the defense is going to kill them. Teams rarely last in the NFL when their only hope is to win 41-38 while praying they get the ball last.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-power-rankings-week-7

FTW (13. Detroit Lions - Last week: 14.  A bye week came at the perfect time for the Lions and their fledgling defense. They now have to figure out whether they have enough horses on that side of the ball ahead of a daunting schedule featuring dates with Green Bay, Minnesota, and New England in three of their next four games. Since they probably don't, Dan Campbell might be forced to make a tough midseason change at defensive coordinator. — RZ):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/20/nfl-power-rankings-week-7-vikings-packers-browns/92335608007/

SN (14. Detroit Lions 3-2 (13):  The Lions have a strange defensive dichotomy. They led the league with 20 sacks going into their Week 6 bye, but they also had the No. 32 pass defense. Their job is to turn that pressure into better results in the second half of the season.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-power-rankings-bears-steelers-packers-bump-week-7/0393017998c62642cfc8cd0a



PFN (17. Detroit Lions - Last Week’s Ranking: 14.  Offense Rank: 2.  Defense Rank: 32.  Playoff Odds: 41.50%.  The 3-2 Detroit Lions had their bye week in Week 6, so they don’t see much movement in the power rankings this week. So far this year, their offense has been phenomenal, but their defense has been one of the worst in the NFL. They look like a potential playoff team, but how high their ceiling is will be dependent on their defense’s improvement.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/week-7-nfl-power-rankings-2026/

Fansided Jason LaCanfora (18. Detroit Lions - Last Rank: 21.  Week 6 Result: Bye.  I have not forgotten how horrible this defense is … I just didn’t have to watch them this week and that’s a good thing. They should be getting a little healthier. They should still be able to win some shootouts. We are dealing with some seriously flawed teams in this territory.):  https://fansided.com/nfl/nfl-power-rankings-entering-week-7-seahawks-and-cowboys-in-trouble-bills-keep-climbing

PFT (18. Lions (No. 21; 3-2): The next two games (Packers, Vikings) could shape the season.):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/pfts-week-7-2026-nfl-power-rankings

Average Power Ranking (217/17):  13
Posted by LionsFan at 2:56 PM 0 comments

Monday, October 19, 2026

Lions Links for Monday 10-19-26

Articles:

KEY QUESTIONS: What did Campbell learn from bye week deep dive?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-what-did-campbell-learn-from-bye-week-deep-dive-branch-mays-sewell



Dan Campbell Makes Surprising Admission About 2025 Detroit Lions Season:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/dan-campbell-makes-surprising-admission-about-2025-detroit-lions-season

Lions Trade Deadline Big Board: Realistic Targets Ranked by Fit and Cost With Four Weeks Left:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-trade-deadline-big-board-realistic-targets-ranked-fit-cost-2026

Former Lions DB Apologizes For Spitting, Accused Again by 49ers Fullback:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/former-lions-db-apologizes-for-spitting-accused-again-by-49ers-tight-end

Lions Still Trying To Figure Out Playing Time For Returning Players:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-still-trying-to-figure-out-playing-time-for-returning-players

Ranking Detroit Lions Players Most Likely To Be Traded Before the Deadline:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/ranking-detroit-lions-players-most-likely-to-be-traded-before-2026-deadline

Detroit Lions Are Small Betting Favorite Against Packers in Week 7:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-are-small-betting-favorite-against-packers-week-seven

Detroit Lions Face Returning RB, Will Avoid Micah Parsons:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-face-returning-rb-will-avoid-micah-parsons


Why Dan Campbell is more optimistic at the bye week than he was in 2025:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-news/177453/dan-campbell-more-optimistic-detroit-lions-2026-team




Juice Scruggs or Cade Mays? The Lions suddenly have a fascinating decision to make at center and Dan Campbell admits the Lions aren’t sure what to do:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/juice-scruggs-or-cade-mays-the-lions-suddenly-have-a-fascinating-decision-to-make-at-center-and-dan-campbell-admits-the-lions-arent-sure-what-to-do/

The Chargers are 0-6, so I started shopping their secondary for the Lions — here’s what each trade could cost:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-chargers-are-0-6-so-i-started-shopping-their-secondary-for-the-lions-heres-what-each-trade-could-cost/

Should the Lions trade for Sauce Gardner after the Colts fired Chris Ballard? What would it cost, and the details a lot of fans will ignore:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/should-the-lions-trade-for-sauce-gardner-after-the-colts-fired-chris-ballard-what-would-it-cost-and-the-details-a-lot-of-fans-will-ignore/

The Lions have scouted 27 schools for the 2027 NFL Draft, and three programs keep getting their attention more than any other:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-have-scouted-17-schools-for-the-2027-nfl-draft-and-two-programs-keep-getting-their-attention/

The Lions’ quiet approach to cornerback in free agency may have saved them from an expensive mistake, even if it feels like more should have been done:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-quiet-approach-to-cornerback-in-free-agency-may-have-saved-them-from-an-expensive-mistake-even-if-it-feels-like-more-should-have-been-done/

The Lions have allowed the NFL’s most explosive plays, but what happens afterward is the much bigger problem: How they adjust:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-have-allowed-the-nfls-most-explosive-plays-but-what-happens-afterward-is-the-much-bigger-problem-how-they-adjust/

Two big additions for Lions come with two big questions:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/cade-mays-brian-branch-lions

NFC North Week 6 Takeaways: What every team has earned heading into Week 7:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/nfc-north-week-6-takeaways-bears-loins-packers-vikings


Zyon McCollum Should be a Prime Lions Trade Target After Buccaneers' Latest Loss:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/zyon-mccollum-should-be-a-prime-lions-trade-target-after-buccaneers-latest-loss

2027 NFL Draft Order After Week 6: One Compelling Thought For All 32 Teams (21. Detroit Lions (3-2):  The Detroit Lions will almost certainly utilize this first-round pick on defense, whether at cornerback or edge rusher. The Terrion Arnold situation was unfortunate, and Aidan Hutchinson still needs a running mate (Derrick Moore deserves more time to potentially grow into that role).):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/2027-nfl-draft-order-after-week-6-one-compelling-thought-for-all-32-teams


Video:




OverreactJim's | Will 3 NFC North Teams Make The Playoffs? | Costa and Jansen:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/overreactjim-s-will-3-nfc-north-teams-make-the-playoffs-costa-and-jansen-xbpm0aa


Does Lions GM Brad Holmes Have Ability to Improve Team Still?:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/does-lions-gm-brad-holmes-195457859.html
Posted by LionsFan at 8:30 PM 0 comments

Saturday, October 17, 2026

2027 Mock Draft Round Up #2

Walter Football Charlie (25. Detroit Lions: Ashton Hampton , CB, Clemson - The Lions' terrible cornerback play is a result of Brad Holmes decisions like drafting Hendon Hooker instead of Tyrique Stevenson, selecting Terrion Arnold over Nate Wiggins or Kamari Lassiter, and signing D.J. Reed instead of re-signing Carlton Davis. Detroit badly needs cornerback talent.  In 2026, Hampton has 15 tackles, one interception, and nine passes broken up thus far. To open 2026, on the second play of the blowout loss to LSU, Hampton had a nice interception of Sam Leavitt. Hampton was excellent versus Miami, showing the speed and twitch to cover the ultra-fast Malachi Toney. That was a huge tape for Hampton to show he can run with speed receivers. Hampton (6-3, 204) is a big cover corner who is long and physical. In 2025, he totaled 45 tackles with eight passes broken up and an interception. He had 27 tackles with two interceptions and five breakups as a freshman.) (10-16-26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2027charlie.php?rbBot

Tankathon (25. CB Kelley Jones) (10-15-26):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock-draft

Athlonsports (25. Detroit Lions - Ashton Hampton | CB | Clemson:  Even before they had to move on from a recent first-round pick in Terrion Arnold, the Lions already had depth issues in the secondary, and now they need to find a new No. 1 corner. Hampton has an ideal combination of size and length for the position, and he’s shown impressive technique and competitiveness so far this season. If he continues to make the most of his physical tools while showing all of those intangible traits, he could quickly become the best corner on this roster.) (10-15-26):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2027-nfl-mock-draft-updated-first-round-darian-mensah-arch-manning-cj-carr

AtoZ Sports Crabbs and Gregson (22. Detroit Lions — Clev Lubin, EDGE, Louisville:  Detroit’s defensive depth chart hasn’t been at full health for quite some time. But one spot that has constantly been in need is the EDGE2 position. Yes, DJ Wonnum and second-round pick Derrick Moore are in-house. But I think Lubin is a brand fit for the Lions like few players in this class.  54. TE Luke Reynolds):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2-round-2027-nfl-mock-draft-drew-mestemaker-arch-manning-jeremiah-smith-dante-moore/

USA Today Middlehurst-Schwartz (19. Detroit Lions – Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia: Whether in free agency or the draft, Detroit has to take drastic steps to upgrade a woefully undermanned secondary. A former five-star recruit, Robinson offers the size and athleticism to hang in man coverage as well as the coverage instincts and ball skills to thrive in zone looks. The former five-star recruit might take some time to settle in as a pro, but he gives the defense some hope for holding up against top receivers in the long term.) (10-14-26):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/10/14/nfl-mock-draft-2027-arch-manning/92235302007/

Walter Football Walt (25.  Damon Wilson II, DE, Missouri:  The Lions really liked Keldric Faulk, but had to pass on him for a tackle. Here's another bookend for Aidan Hutchinson.  Damon Wilson has great speed off the edge.) (10-14-26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2027_1.php

AtoZ Sports DeLeone and Roberts (22. Detroit Lions — Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State:  Detroit adds help in the secondary with Jones. A young cornerback who can compete for playing time and develop into a reliable coverage option would help the Lions manage the demands of facing high-powered passing offenses. His ability to handle different receiver types and remain consistent in coverage will be important to his NFL outlook.) (10-14-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2027-nfl-mock-draft-early-quarterback-run-jeremiah-smith-reunited-old-friend-drew-mestemakar-arch-manning/


PFF McGuiness (25. Detroit Lions: IOL Kade Pieper, Iowa - PFF Big Board Rank: 37.  Juice Scruggs is playing the best football of his career with the Lions this season, but he is set to become a free agent in 2027. That could make center one of Detroit's top needs heading into next season. Pieper has played right guard this season, earning PFF grades above 85.0 in both pass blocking and run blocking, and should be capable of making the move to center.) (10-13-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-mock-draft-1-jeremiah-smith-goes-no-1-to-titans-five-qbs-land-in-first-round

Fox sports Rang (15. Detroit Lions: Ashton Hampton, CB, Clemson - Compelled to release former first-round pick Terrion Arnold following an offseason arrest, the Lions have since struggled in coverage and acknowledged they were in on Joey Porter Jr. trade talks. With Porter now in Dallas, Detroit may have little choice but to wait until next year to patch the position. Hampton has the size and agility to project as a future star in the NFL.) (10-8-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2027-nfl-mock-draft-arch-manning-first-qb-selected-jeremiah-smith-no-1-overall

Yahoo Tice (15. Detroit Lions — Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State:  As the late Owen Hart would say, "enough is enough and it's time for a change." The Lions desperately could use two things: A center (Minnesota's Greg Johnson came to mind) or a cornerback. They choose to improve one of the biggest holes in the NFL right now, even with three cornerbacks off the board. Jones has been a more consistent player to start this season and can fit in both zone or man schemes. His Inspector Gadget arms head up north to Detroit.) (10-8-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2027-nfl-mock-draft-first-version-includes-a-huge-trade-that-powers-arch-manning-to-no-1-spot-170653524.html

Yahoo (15. Detroit Lions — Dylan Stewart, Edge, South Carolina:  Figuring out where Stewart fits in this class now — or whether he might stay in college — is trickier than it was a month ago. Stewart's suspension has raised some character questions, although it appears he's back on a track to return to playing. Stewart's production has also been somewhat underwhelming considering his rare gifts. If he can find a way to display those skills, this might be too tempting for Detroit to pass on. The Lions badly need a rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson.) (10-8-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2027-nfl-mock-draft-10-5-quarterbacks-land-in-round-1-but-wr-jeremiah-smith-lands-at-no-1-154904997.html

Athletic Baumgartner (19. Detroit Lions: Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia - Detroit’s situation in the secondary is a mess right now, and few teams are as light at corner. Robinson is a bit undersized, at 6-0, 180, but he is very long and extremely fluid athletically. This could be about the first-round floor for the former five-star prospect.) (10-7-26):  https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7665591/2026/10/07/nfl-mock-draft-2027-smith-carr/

CBS Wilson (25. Ty Benefield S - PROSPECT RNK:  57th.  POSITION RNK:  4th.  The Lions have two of the best safeties in football ... when they're healthy. Benefield is a tackling machine coming downhill, but he's been good in coverage, too.) (10-5-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2027-nfl-mock-draft-arch-manning-first-round-quarterback/

Draftwire Banks (16. Detroit, Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama:  The OnePride really needs to improve pass defense.) (10-5-26):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/10/05/time-for-a-full-nfl-mock-draft-update-with-more-player-descriptions/92105596007/ 

OnSI Melo (21. Detroit Lions: Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State - The Detroit Lions were allowing a league-high 299.3 passing yards per game prior to Sunday Night Football. The Terrion Arnold situation did not help. Cornerback will be high on Brad Holmes' offseason to-do list. Mississippi State's Kelley Jones has carried over the momentum from his breakout 2025 season to 2026, having already recorded six pass breakups.) (10-5-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/2027-nfl-mock-draft-trinidad-chambliss-crashes-the-qb1-race

Round 1 (11 CB, 3 DE, 1 S, 1 G):

5 CB Kelley Jones
3 CB Ashton Hampton 
2 CB Ellis Robinson IV
1 CB Zabien Brown
1 S Ty Benefield 
1 DE  Damon Wilson II
1 DE Clev Lubin
1 DE Dylan Stewart
1 G Kade Pieper

Round 2 (1 TE):

1 TE Luke Reynolds 



Posted by LionsFan at 8:50 PM 0 comments

Lions Links for Saturday 10-17-26

Articles:


Exploring Pros, Cons of Lions Claiming LB Aiden Fisher:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/exploring-pros-cons-lions-claiming-aiden-fisher


What Lions Week 5 Win Changed about Trade Deadline Plans:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/what-lions-week-5-win-changed-about-trade-deadline-plans

Lions Star WR Has Harsh Words About His Game Against Cardinals:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-star-wr-has-harsh-words-about-his-game-against-cardinals

5 Players Detroit Lions Must Scout in College Football Week 7:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/5-players-detroit-lions-must-scout-2026-college-football-week-7



NFC North rankings: How do Bears, Lions, Packers and Vikings stack up in highly competitive division? (4.  Detroit Lions:  Dan Campbell is trying to bring back the grit-and-grind vibe that electrified the Motor City when the Lions nearly made their first Super Bowl a few years ago. Combining blue-chip players with a blue-collar mentality, Detroit aims to be the biggest and baddest bully on the block. While the offense remains an explosive unit with the talent, tactics and tenacity to impose its will on any opponent, the overmatched defense has struggled to hold up its end of the bargain. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard is working to address the unit's issues, but a depleted secondary is hard to overcome. Safety Brian Branch could return to action after the bye, which would be a major boost. Unfortunately, his star running mate on the back end, Kerby Joseph, remains sidelined by a lingering knee issue. Perhaps the Lions can shift to a "bend, don't break" approach that focuses on eliminating big plays and forcing red-zone field goals, instead of pushing the envelope as a unit that wants to harass quarterbacks and playmakers on the perimeter. Although Jared Goff and Detroit's high-powered offense can mask some of the defense's woes, the team is playing with one hand tied behind its back until the stop unit can at least compete with potent attacks.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfc-north-rankings-how-do-bears-lions-packers-and-vikings-stack-up-in-highly-competitive-division

Should Lions QB Jared Goff Be Considered in League MVP Race?:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-qb-jared-goff-considered-143633003.html



Posted by LionsFan at 7:51 PM 0 comments

Friday, October 16, 2026

Lions Links for Friday 10-16-26

Articles:



Two Lions Players Whose Stock Is Trending Down Entering Bye:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/two-lions-players-whose-stock-is-trending-down-entering-bye

David Montgomery Having Disastrous Season Shows Lions Won Trade:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/david-montgomery-having-disastrous-season-shows-lions-won-trade

Updated 2026 Lions Game-by-Game Predictions Following First Quarter:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/updated-2026-lions-game-by-game-predictions-following-first-quarter

Detroit Lions Defensive Line Has Exceeded Expectations:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-defensive-line-has-exceeded-expectations



Cardinals coach calls Detroit Lions’ defensive game plan ‘unique,’ ‘fascinating’:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-analysis/177204/cardinals-coach-detroit-lions-defensive-game-plan-unique-fascinating


NFL Analyst Says Lions Will Pivot to Riq Woolen or Kelee Ringo After Missing on Joey Porter Jr.:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/nfl-analyst-says-lions-will-pivot-to-riq-woolen-or-kelee-ringo-after-missing-on-joey-porter-jr

Dan Campbell's Bye Week Assignment Asks Which Lions Are Costing Them in Critical Moments:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/dan-campbells-bye-week-assignment-asks-which-lions-are-costing-them-in-critical-moments

Lions Can’t Waste Jared Goff’s Mistake-Free Start:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-jared-goff-mistake-free-start-packers


Let's rank the best NFL divisions this season: NFC North over the NFC West at No. 1? (1. NFC North - Combined FPI rating: 6.0 (No. 2 of eight).  Detroit Lions: 2.1 (10th in the NFL).  Chicago Bears: 1.7 (12th).  Minnesota Vikings: 1.5 (13th).  Green Bay Packers: 0.7 (16th).  It was a tough call between this division and the NFC West, which has three teams in the FPI's top six while this one has only one in the top 10. But the premise here is that we want to know which division has the best chance of landing all four of its teams in the playoffs, and with apologies to the Cardinals, I believe that puts the NFC North up top. This division features three teams (Detroit, Chicago, Green Bay) with high-end offenses but shaky defenses and one team (Minnesota) with the best defense in the league but an offense that's still putting things together.  At 5-0, the Vikings are still ranked 13th by FPI because of their 26th-ranked offense. But their defensive and special teams FPI both rank No. 1 overall, and if you look at the injury issues they've had on offense, it's not difficult to imagine that unit improving. The Packers are 10th in offensive FPI despite massive offensive line issues and a complete lack of a run game. Those issues feel less likely to improve than Minnesota's weaknesses, but it's not out of the question. And the eventual return of edge rusher Micah Parsons should boost Green Bay's 19th-ranked defense.  Chicago ranks 12th in FPI offense and defense, and it could get quarterback Caleb Williams back from injury in Week 6. Detroit is fourth in offensive FPI and 30th in defensive, and the Lions' playoff hopes rest on their ability to outscore the teams on their fourth-place schedule. I like their chances.):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50181965/2026-nfl-season-ranking-eight-nfl-divisions-best-worst

AskTom: Which Team Would Tom Brady Most Want To Play For? Can Brock Purdy Win Super Bowl? (Who are your favorite receivers in the league right now? Here's the caveat: JSN (Jaxon Smith-Njigba), J'Marr Chase, JJ (Justin Jefferson) and Puka Nacua are a given. We want your next four.  Brady: I got Amon-Ra St. Brown from the Lions. He could easily be in that top tier group you mentioned. He does it all. He's a non-diva receiver too. He always finds a way inside, outside, run after catch. He does it all and blocks in the run game.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/asktom-which-team-would-tom-brady-most-want-play-for-can-brock-purdy-win-super-bowl

Packers Could Get Two Game-Changing Stars Back Just in Time to Face the Lions:  https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/packers-could-two-game-changing-010818455.html

Podcast:






Evaluating Detroit Lions OC Drew Petzing After Five Games:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/evaluating-lions-offensive-coordinator-drew-124611174.html

Jared Goff’s Improvement Starts With His Pre-Snap Chess:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/jared-goff-improvement-starts-pre-024558948.html
Posted by LionsFan at 9:51 PM 0 comments
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