While edge rusher and offensive line dominate offseason conversations in Detroit, backup quarterback is another area the Lions can’t afford to overlook as they prepare for the 2026 season.

In 2025, veteran Kyle Allen earned the QB2 role after outperforming Hendon Hooker during the preseason. Fortunately for Detroit, Allen was barely needed, throwing just two passes across three appearances. However, Allen is now heading toward unrestricted free agency, and the Lions would be wise to explore younger options who could develop behind Jared Goff rather than re-signing a short-term veteran.

That developmental quarterback could come through the draft or free agency, but Detroit had an opportunity to act even sooner. Former Eagles rookie Kyle McCord became available after Philadelphia chose not to sign him to a futures contract, officially making him a free agent earlier this week.

Instead of capitalizing, the Lions watched a division rival step in. According to The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman, the Green Bay Packers signed McCord to a reserve/futures deal, giving them a low-cost look at the young passer.

Packers Capitalize While Lions Sit Out

At first glance, McCord’s signing won’t generate much reaction in Detroit. Still, it’s a savvy move by Green Bay, especially with Malik Willis potentially departing in free agency. Futures contracts carry minimal risk, allowing teams to evaluate players during offseason programs without long-term commitment.

From a Lions perspective, this was exactly the kind of move general manager Brad Holmes could have made. As things stand, Detroit currently has only Goff under contract at quarterback, which is far from ideal. Most NFL teams enter the offseason with at least two quarterbacks already secured.

Bringing McCord into the building would have allowed Detroit’s coaching staff to evaluate his development potential firsthand. Even if he failed to crack the 53-man roster, he could have served as a capable practice squad quarterback. There’s also an argument that McCord offers more upside than CJ Beathard, who filled that role for Detroit last season.

McCord was selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft after a strong 2024 campaign at Syracuse. Philadelphia hoped he could challenge Dorian Thompson-Robinson for the third quarterback role, but neither impressed. In three preseason games, McCord completed just under 43 percent of his throws, totaling 191 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions—an uneven debut that reflected typical rookie struggles.

Now, McCord gets a fresh opportunity with the Packers to prove himself during the offseason. Meanwhile, the Lions must determine how they’ll address the backup quarterback spot. Will they pursue a veteran such as Zach Wilson? Or will they look to the draft for options like Drew Allar or Cade Klubnik?

Those answers should come into focus as the offseason unfolds.