The Detroit Lions’ 2026 offseason is just beginning, but early signs suggest they remain well positioned to compete for the NFC North title next season. While Detroit focuses on building its coaching staff, division rivals are already facing setbacks — especially the Green Bay Packers, whose offseason continues to trend in the wrong direction.
Green Bay is coming off a stunning playoff collapse and still chose to retain head coach Matt LaFleur for the 2026 season. Not only did the Packers bring back the coach tied to that collapse, but they also lost key members of their coaching staff. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley departed after being hired as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach, while quarterbacks coach Sean Mannion was hired by the Philadelphia Eagles as offensive coordinator.
Both moves represent major losses for Green Bay and give the Lions even more reason for optimism entering the 2026 campaign.
Sean Mannion’s Departure Hurts Packers’ Quarterback Development
Mannion played an important role in developing both Jordan Love and Malik Willis during the 2025 season. He helped Willis rebuild his value while also guiding Love as he continued his growth as a starting quarterback. Losing that leadership creates uncertainty for Green Bay’s offense and strengthens Detroit’s position within the division.
Meanwhile, Hafley’s exit removes one of the Packers’ most effective defensive minds. With both coordinators gone, Green Bay now faces the challenge of replacing two critical pieces of its coaching staff in one offseason.
For the Lions, these changes represent opportunity. Detroit can afford to stay patient while its main rival loses proven contributors on both sides of the ball.
Lions Benefit from Packers’ Coaching Decisions
LaFleur’s decision to return remains controversial after Green Bay surrendered a 21–3 playoff lead against the Chicago Bears in the first round. Such a collapse typically places a head coach on the hot seat. Instead, the Packers doubled down by extending LaFleur.
Detroit already holds the edge over Green Bay on the field, posting a 6–2 record against the Packers since Dan Campbell became head coach. Now, that advantage appears to be growing off the field as well.
With Mannion and Hafley gone, the Packers lose two coaches who were instrumental during a strong 2025 season. Hafley’s move also takes him out of the NFC entirely, further weakening Green Bay’s defensive continuity.
NFC North Shakeup Favors Detroit
The coaching turnover isn’t limited to Green Bay. The Chicago Bears also suffered a loss, with running backs coach Eric Bieniemy returning to the Kansas City Chiefs as their offensive coordinator. Across the division, instability is creating an opening for Detroit.
The Lions still must complete their own coaching staff, but the early offseason trend clearly favors them. While rivals struggle to maintain continuity, Detroit can focus on refining its roster and preparing for another push toward the top of the NFC North.
If this pattern continues, the Lions could enter the 2026 season with both talent and stability — two advantages their rivals are currently failing to secure.
