Tuesday, October 20, 2026

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

Thursday, October 15, 2026

Lions Links for Thursday 10-15-26

Articles:



One Advanced Metric Showcases Just How Important Brian Branch Is:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/one-advanced-metric-showcases-just-how-important-brian-branch-is

'His Career Just Got Launched': Jon Gruden Praises Lions Rookie Defender:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/his-career-just-got-launched-jon-gruden-praises-lions-rookie-defender


How Marvin Harrison Jr. Trade Negatively Impacts Detroit Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/how-marvin-harrison-jr-trade-negatively-impacts-detroit-lions

Should Lions LB Injury Lead to More Snaps for Jimmy Rolder?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/should-lions-lb-injury-lead-to-more-snaps-for-jimmy-rolder

Why Detroit Lions Did Not Take Out Key Players After Comfortable Lead:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/why-detroit-lions-did-not-take-out-key-players-after-comfortable-lead

The Detroit Lions are getting back ‘a top-10 center’ in Cade Mays:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-news/177142/detroit-lions-getting-backtop-10-center-cade-mays


The Lions just added a veteran return specialist, but Tom Kennedy’s replacement job is far from settled:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-just-added-a-veteran-return-specialist-but-tom-kennedys-replacement-job-is-far-from-settled/

Lions trade target Riq Woolen: What an Eagles insider says about his availability and price and how it could be cheaper than we thought:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-trade-target-riq-woolen-what-an-eagles-insider-says-about-his-availability-and-price-and-how-it-could-be-cheaper-than-we-thought/

3 Lions players other teams could call about before the trade deadline, including one Detroit should seriously consider moving:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/3-lions-players-other-teams-could-call-about-before-the-trade-deadline-including-one-detroit-should-seriously-consider-moving/

Could the Lions trade for Zyon McCollum? A Bucs insider explains his availability and price:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/could-the-lions-trade-for-zyon-mccollum-a-bucs-insider-explains-his-availability-and-price/


Lions Moved on From David Montgomery at the Perfect Time as Texans RB Lands on Hot Seat:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-moved-on-from-david-montgomery-at-the-perfect-time-as-texans-rb-lands-on-hot-seat

D.J. Wonnum further proof of the Hutch Effect for Lions:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/d-j-wonnum-lions-2678086086

Skyler Gill-Howard talks rookie season with Detroit Lions:  https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/skyler-gill-howard-rookie-season-detroit-lions/

Barnwell takes the temperature of the NFL's hottest seats: 15 coaches, players who need a turnaround (Kelvin Sheppard, DC, Detroit Lions:  When the Lions lost coordinators Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn after the 2024 season to head coaching gigs, Dan Campbell chose a pair of relatively low-key replacements. He hired John Morton from the Broncos to take over the offense and promoted Sheppard, already on staff as the team's linebackers coach, to run the defense. Given how successful Campbell's prior hires had been, the new coordinators deservedly started their tenure with some credit in the bank.  That credit is all used up. Morton didn't make it through one full year as offensive playcaller. Campbell took over the role during the 2025 season before firing Morton after missing the playoffs. Sheppard made it through Year 1, but unless things improve, it's tough to see him surviving through the end of a second season in the defensive role. The Lions are a disaster on defense, ranking 29th in points allowed per drive and last in EPA per play. They can't get off the field on third down and have allowed teams to convert 81% of their red zone trips into touchdowns, the third-worst figure in the league.  Is that on coaching? I'm skeptical. Watching the Lions closely, I see a defense that simply doesn't have enough talent as opposed to one that makes routine schematic mistakes. The Lions comfortably have the worst secondary in the NFL, a product of injuries (which have cost them one of the league's best safety duos in Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph) and off-field behavior (leading to the release of 2024 first-round pick Terrion Arnold, who admittedly wasn't living up to expectations before being cut amid felony charges of armed robbery and kidnapping).  Longtime starter D.J. Reed hasn't played well, but the players around him shouldn't be expected to make up a solid secondary. Sheppard is running out veterans on low-cost contracts such as Chuck Clark, Roger McCreary, Rock Ya-Sin and Christian Izien as regular defensive backs. Players such as Thomas Harper and Avonte Maddox weren't playing well, either, but they've also gone down injured, leaving the Lions without alternatives. It's telling that Detroit was excited to turn to rookie Keith Abney II, a 5-foot-9 fifth-round pick, as a potential savior at corner against the Cardinals last week. It's difficult to recall a secondary that was less imposing on paper, let alone how it has played in reality.  The good news for the Lions, if there is any, is that the front four is playing better. The Lions have the fifth-best sack rate in the league. They're the second-best tackling team in terms of missed tackle rate, although that doesn't cover situations where the Lions simply aren't close enough to a ball carrier to even attempt a tackle. If the Lions could hold up in coverage, the defense might improve to passable, which would be enough to win plenty of games given the way the offense is playing.  One major reinforcement is on the way in Branch, who has returned to practice and should be back on the field in the next couple of weeks from his Achilles injury. Abney had a solid start against the Cardinals and should feature in the defense more often moving forward. And though Joseph's future is unclear after suffering a knee injury last year, the hope is that the Lions will have the 2024 first-team All-Pro back at some point in 2026.  If Abney and Branch can't right the ship, something will need to change. General manager Brad Holmes is aggressive and could look to make a move at the trade deadline, with Campbell admitting that the Lions were in on the Joey Porter Jr. negotiations before the Cowboys swooped in and traded for the Steelers corner. Sheppard will obviously hope to get more help, but the Lions can't compete for a title if their defense continues to blow leads in the fourth quarter.):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50176029/hot-seats-players-coaches-week-6-barnwell

Which NFL teams need a new QB in 2027? The list is growing.  (Could the Chargers or Lions enter the quarterback market?  Lions: Jared Goff will be 33 next year, and he was never mobile to begin with. And that’s even more of an issue now. He has not been the same guy since Ben Johnson left, and in trade, he could be looked at by other teams as a one-year rental for $40 million given how the deal is structured. If Dan Campbell is gone, this could be a reboot. How good would your roster have to be to win a Lombardi with a 34- or 35-year-old Goff?):  https://fansided.com/nfl/which-nfl-teams-need-a-new-qb-in-2027-the-list-is-growing

7 NFL teams that should be buyers at 2026 trade deadline, including Chiefs (Detroit Lions - An embattled secondary ratcheted up the man coverage against the Arizona Cardinals and finally looked at home. Still, even with Brian Branch coming back, it's difficult to trust a group that has the fourth-worst defensive EPA per dropback, according to Next Gen Stats. And with Detroit having tallied a league-leading 20 sacks, a pass rush that's integral to the team's hopes might already be maxed out.  But finding high-level secondary help around midseason isn't easy. With Porter having been dealt, there aren't many acquirable cornerbacks who could actually help out a new team. If Kansas City sees Kristian Fulton as superfluous to a back end already embracing a youth movement, the veteran could make sense as a target for Detroit. Donte Jackson also could be a consideration if the Los Angeles Chargers continue to slide and entertain a sell-off. With both players in the final year of their deals, the cost and risk involved with any acquisition should be relatively limited.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/15/nfl-trade-deadline-buyers-2026-chiefs-bills/92248584007/

‘Enjoy the Fireworks’ — Tom Brady Gives Hope to Lions Fans by Praising Jared Goff After Detroit’s Challenging Start To Season:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tom-brady-lions-praising-jared-goff/

Lions hope to keep momentum after bye week, hosting Packers and Vikings in next 2 games:  https://apnews.com/article/detroit-lions-bye-513747bee6edd5c6a7ddcedc0e8475cf

Video:



Will The Lions Look To Add On The Offensive Side Of The Ball? | Karsch and Anderson:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/will-the-lions-look-to-add-on-the-offensive-side-of-the-ball-karsch-and-anderson-xbnarl6


Could the Lions move Juice Scruggs ahead of the trade deadline?:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/could-lions-move-juice-scruggs-190735242.html

Lions' offense thriving with creativity this year:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-offense-thriving-creativity-173452866.html

Expectations For Lions Safety Brian Branch When He Returns:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/expectations-lions-safety-brian-branch-121625693.html
Posted by LionsFan at 6:49 PM 0 comments

Wednesday, October 14, 2026

Lions Links for Wednesday 10-14-26

Articles:





Detroit Lions RB Earns NFC Offensive Award After Cardinals Win:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-rb-earns-nfc-offensive-award-after-cardinals-win

Former Packers WR: Detroit Lions Jared Goff Is Best QB in NFL:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/former-packers-wr-detroit-lions-jared-goff-is-best-qb-in-nfl





We graded the entire Lions roster through 5 games, and 2 players have separated themselves from everyone else:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/we-graded-the-entire-lions-roster-through-5-games-and-2-players-have-separated-themselves-from-everyone-else/

Brad Holmes deserves criticism for the secondary, but what he did with the Lions’ offensive line is incredible:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/brad-holmes-deserves-criticism-for-the-secondary-but-what-he-did-with-the-lions-offensive-line-is-incredible/

6 Lions players who deserve more playing time after the bye, including one rookie who may have forced Detroit’s hand:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/6-lions-players-who-deserve-more-playing-time-after-the-bye-including-one-rookie-who-may-have-forced-detroits-hand/

Detroit Lions Mailbag: Will Brad Holmes make multiple trades, will Kerby Joseph play again, and is Cade Mays taking over at center?:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/detroit-lions-mailbag-will-brad-holmes-make-multiple-trades-will-kerby-joseph-play-again-and-is-cade-mays-taking-over-at-center/

Will the Lions Add a Receiver During the Bye? What Tom Kennedy's Season-Ending Injury Changes:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/will-the-lions-add-receiver-during-bye-tom-kennedys-season-ending-injury

Dan Campbell: These two Lions had their best games of season on defense:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/jack-campbell-detroit-lions

After Lions 'whip ass' in Arizona, they enter bye week on a high note:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50182094/lions-bye-week-learned-offense-goff-gibbs

Reevaluating 32 bold NFL predictions, five weeks in: Which are on target, and which need a do-over? (Detroit Lions - Original prediction: Edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson will win Defensive Player of the Year.  Why there's still a chance: Four sacks and a 66th percentile pass rush win rate at edge isn't a bad start, but he's going to have to pick it up to fulfill this prediction. He has the talent level to do it, but the fact that the rest of the Lions' defense is looking so weak is going to hurt Hutchinson's sack total, which in turn will hurt his DPOY chances.):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50163007/2026-season-evaluating-preseason-predictions-updates

Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs, Steelers RB Jaylen Warren highlight Players of the Week (NFC Offensive Player of the Week:  Jahmyr Gibbs - Gibbs was a production machine in Detroit's 45-21 thumping of the Cardinals on Sunday. He posted 207 scrimmage yards and a pair of rushing touchdowns. Gibbs garnered 30 touches, with five receptions for 56 yards and 15 carries for 151 rushing yards. With his two rushing scores, Gibbs, 24, reached 58 career scores and passed Hall of Famer and Lions legend Barry Sanders for the most touchdowns by any NFL player prior to turning 25.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/players-of-the-week-2026-week-5-jahmyr-gibbs-jaylen-warren

2026 NFL offensive line rankings: Lions move into top spot, Patriots slide amid injury (1. Detroit Lions (up 3) - The Lions move into the top spot having been named our Offensive Line of the Week from each of the past two weeks. 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 given up just nine pressures from 166 pass-blocking snaps.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-offensive-line-rankings-2026

NFL wide receiver rankings: Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads after Week 5, Drake London Climbs to No. 2 (15. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions (down 2):  St. Brown still leads all wide receivers with 55 targets, but his production has dipped over the past three weeks after he racked up 209 receiving yards in the first two games of the season. He also fumbled this week, which hurt his PFF grade.  26. Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions (down 1): Williams is tied for 12th among wide receivers in yards per reception (15.3) but is tied for the second-highest drop rate (18.2%). Drops have been an issue throughout his career, and he is on pace for his highest drop rate in the past four seasons.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-wide-receiver-rankings

Mahomes Mountain Week 6: Jared Goff Rises, Patrick Mahomes Remains At The Summit (2nd Row:
Jared Goff Detroit Lions - Wright: "A change in row two: Jared Goff. They’re scoring more points than anyone in the league, they have one of the most efficient offenses ever. He's not turning the ball over. He’s been fantastic; they have to score these kinds of points.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/mahomes-mountain-week-6

2026 NFL MVP Power Rankings entering Week 6 (5. Jared Goff, QB, Detroit Lions:  Goff almost made this list last week, and while a strong performance against a struggling Cardinals defense might not move the needle, his numbers so far are hard to deny. He was second in the NFL with 1,485 passing yards, tied for second with 12 passing touchdowns, and has thrown no interceptions.):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/touchdown/2026/10/14/2026-nfl-mvp-power-rankings-entering-week-6/92250997007/


QB Rankings;

NFL quarterback power rankings entering Week 6 (1. Jared Goff - Second in passing yards. Second in touchdown passes. If the Lions’ defense hadn’t given up the fourth-most points in the NFL so far this season he’d be in MVP contention.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-quarterback-power-rankings-heading-into-week-6/

NFL QB rankings: Herbert plummets to No. 30 in Week 6 update (3..Jared Goff - Jared Goff has 12 passing touchdowns, one behind Purdy for the league lead, and zero interceptions in 2026. That is tied for the most passing touchdowns without an interception by any quarterback through the first five games of a season in NFL history along with Russell Wilson in 2019. His 1,485 yards passing, second in the NFL behind Matthew Stafford's 1,572, rank as the third-most without an interception through the first five games of a season in NFL history. After he toasted the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday to the tune of 271 yards and three passing touchdowns on 19 of 30 passing plus an additional rushing touchdown, Goff is playing like top-three quarterback in football entering his bye week. (+4)):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-quarterback-rankings-2026-week-6-jared-goff-justin-herbert/

NFL QB rankings, Week 6: Josh Allen reclaims No. 1 spot; Jordan Love makes biggest jump (4. 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 is quietly putting together a stellar season, torching Arizona with ease while pushing his TD-INT ratio to a perfect 12-0.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-qb-rankings-week-6-2026-nfl-season

2027 NFL QB Rankings: Brock Purdy and Bryce Young Keep Getting Better (5. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions - Preseason Ranking: 12.  Pick the stat, and Goff has been elite in it this season. He’s second in passing yards (1,485), behind only Matthew Stafford. He’s fifth in EPA per play (0.320). He’s thrown for 12 touchdowns (tied for second) without an interception. Goff has led the Lions to a 3–2 record despite a defense that has allowed the most passing yards in NFL history through four games. While Goff doesn’t often get the same attention as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and others, he puts up similar numbers. Goff has thrown for at least 4,400 yards and 29 touchdowns in each of the past four seasons. He’s currently on pace for 5,049 yards and 40 touchdowns in 2026. Given how the Lions play defense, he might need those numbers to reach the playoffs.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2027-nfl-qb-rankings-brock-purdy-bryce-young-keep-getting-better

NFL quarterback rankings: Patrick Mahomes remains on top, Jared Goff rises (7. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions (up 3):  Goff continues to climb these rankings with a strong start to the 2026 season. He leads all quarterbacks with an 86.1 PFF passing grade, and this has been helped by how well he has avoided negative plays. His 0.5% turnover-worthy play rate is tied for the best mark at the position.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-quarterback-rankings

Video:

'GMFB' reacts to Lions HC Dan Campbell on questioning his own coaching decisions:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/gmfb-reacts-to-lions-hc-dan-campbell-on-questioning-his-own-coaching-decisions



Jared Goff On Lions Win Over Cardinals Heading Into The Bye | Karsch and Anderson:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/jared-goff-on-lions-win-over-cardinals-heading-into-the-bye-karsch-and-anderson-xbmmfy6

Talking Lions and the NFL going into Week 6:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-qqek2wamaiptctj0

Exploring If Detroit Lions Should Hire New Sr. Defensive Assistant:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/exploring-detroit-lions-hire-sr-184232244.html

One Lions rookie showed real promise this past week against Arizona Cardinals: https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/one-lions-rookie-showed-real-174908130.html


The Lions NEED To Play These two Players More After The Bye:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-play-two-players-more-161119467.html

Examining If Lions Defense Can Sustain Improvements Made:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/examining-lions-defense-sustain-improvements-142726142.html

Posted by LionsFan at 7:31 PM 0 comments
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)
.main-inner .sidebar .Poll { background-color: #AD966C; padding: 15px; }