DETROIT LIONS

Detroit followed a 12-5 NFC Championship run in 2023 with a franchise-best 15-2 record in 2024, sweeping the division and earning the NFC's top seed before an early playoff exit to Washington. The 2025 season brought a sharp reversal: a 9-8 finish and last place in the NFC North after a late-season collapse that included six turnovers in a Christmas Day loss to Minnesota. Core players like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, and Jahmyr Gibbs maintained All-Pro and Pro Bowl status across both seasons, while Jack Campbell emerged as a first-team All-Pro linebacker in 2025 despite the team's struggles.

Where they stand: The Lions are in the 2026 preseason following a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2022. Detroit lost key defensive pieces including nose tackle DJ Reader to free agency and is working through offensive line transitions, with guard Christian Mahogany expected to step into a starting role. Training camp is underway at their Allen Park facility as the team looks to return to playoff contention under head coach Dan Campbell.