4 Lions Players Facing Make-or-Break Offseasons as Detroit Eyes Super Bowl Return
The Detroit Lions are aiming to re-establish themselves as NFL contenders in 2026, but that goal will depend heavily on which players step up this offseason.
After a disappointing 2025 season, the Lions finished last in the NFC North and missed the playoffs despite posting a winning record. Inconsistency late in the year ultimately cost Detroit a chance at a third consecutive postseason appearance.
Now, general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell must evaluate which returning players fit into the team’s long-term plans. Several Lions currently under contract enter the offseason with uncertain futures.
Here are four Detroit Lions players facing critical offseasons ahead of the 2026 campaign.
CB Terrion Arnold
The Lions traded up in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft to select Terrion Arnold, believing he could become a shutdown cornerback. However, injuries and penalties have limited his impact through two seasons.
Arnold has struggled with excessive contact in coverage and has been among the league’s most penalized defenders since entering the NFL. While his performance improved during his sophomore season, injuries once again prevented him from sustaining momentum.
Detroit’s secondary is strongest when Arnold plays to his potential. To solidify his role in 2026 and beyond, Arnold must stay healthy and show consistency throughout training camp.
CB Ennis Rakestraw
Selected in the second round of the 2024 draft, Ennis Rakestraw was expected to contribute early despite dealing with injuries at Missouri. Instead, his NFL career has been derailed by health issues.
Rakestraw appeared in only eight games as a rookie and missed his entire second season due to a shoulder injury suffered during training camp. He has logged just 46 defensive snaps in two seasons.
With veterans such as Rock Ya-Sin filling roles in the secondary, Rakestraw faces stiff competition entering his third year. Another injury-plagued offseason could place his roster spot in jeopardy.
RB David Montgomery
David Montgomery enters the offseason with major questions surrounding his future in Detroit. His reduced workload late in the 2025 season suggested a shift toward Jahmyr Gibbs as the lead back.
Brad Holmes acknowledged Montgomery’s uncertain role, and the veteran could seek a team willing to use him more extensively. Although Gibbs has expressed support for Montgomery’s return, there is no guarantee of an even split in carries next season.
If Montgomery remains with the Lions, he must recapture the production that led to his 1,000-yard season in his first year with the team.
OT Giovanni Manu
Detroit’s offensive line faces uncertainty, particularly with Taylor Decker’s future and Frank Ragnow’s retirement. That puts pressure on young tackle Giovanni Manu to take a step forward.
Manu’s development was slowed by an extended injured reserve stint after his first career start. There has been speculation he could move inside to guard, but if he stays at tackle, he must improve his technique, hand placement, and range.
The Lions must determine whether Manu can become a reliable starter as they reshape their offensive line for 2026.
5 Keys for the Detroit Lions to Contend for a Super Bowl in 2026
With Super Bowl week underway, the Lions are focused on building a path back to championship contention after missing the playoffs in 2025.
Here are five keys to getting the Lions back into Super Bowl contention next season:
- Stabilize the Offensive Line
Detroit’s identity has long been built around elite offensive line play. While Penei Sewell earned All-Pro honors in 2026, the unit struggled following Frank Ragnow’s retirement.
Graham Glasgow filled in at center for most of the season, while Kingsley Eguakun briefly started before signing with Cleveland. Meanwhile, Taylor Decker’s future remains uncertain.
The Lions must solve their center position and continue developing Christian Mahogany and Tate Ratledge to regain consistency up front.
- Stay Healthy
Injuries have plagued Detroit for two consecutive seasons. While the team overcame adversity in 2024, it could not do so in 2025.
Some believe Detroit may need to adjust practice intensity, but regardless of cause, improved health will be essential. A fully healthy roster would significantly increase the Lions’ ceiling in 2026.
- Jared Goff Leads the Way
Jared Goff posted strong numbers in 2025 with 4,564 passing yards, 34 touchdowns, and eight interceptions despite team struggles.
However, questions remain about whether he can lead a Super Bowl-winning team. If protected by a resurgent offensive line and supported by a strong run game, Goff has MVP-level upside.
His consistency will determine how far Detroit can go in 2026.
- Defense Ranks Top-10 in Takeaways
Detroit’s defense showed improvement early in the season before injuries derailed its momentum. Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph both suffered season-ending injuries, limiting the team’s turnover production.
After finishing 20th in takeaways in 2025, the Lions must return to forcing turnovers at a top-10 rate to support their offense and control games.
- Reignite the Jahmyr Gibbs–David Montgomery Duo
The Lions’ offense is most effective when Gibbs and Montgomery operate as a two-headed backfield. Their contrasting styles allow Detroit to dominate time of possession and set up play-action.
Montgomery’s reduced role late in 2025 raised concerns about his future, but the best version of the Lions still features a “thunder and lightning” rushing attack.
A productive run game will protect Gibbs, enhance Goff’s efficiency, and restore Detroit’s physical identity.
