With the Super Bowl now wrapped up, the NFL’s attention quickly shifts toward an offseason stretch that could define the future of the Detroit Lions.

General manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell are entering a pivotal phase, one that will heavily influence Detroit’s roster construction and championship outlook as the team prepares for the 2026 campaign. Decisions surrounding contracts, free agency, and the NFL Draft are fast approaching, making the coming weeks some of the most consequential of the year.

Below is a breakdown of the major dates ahead for Detroit and the rest of the league.

 February 17 – March 3: Franchise Tag Period

The offseason’s first real pressure point comes with the opening of the franchise and transition tag window.

During this span, teams must determine whether to place a tag on a pending free agent, effectively retaining negotiating control. For the Lions, any move — or lack thereof — will offer insight into how the organization values certain players and how it plans to approach the broader offseason.

Applying a tag can serve as leverage in long-term contract talks or act as a temporary solution if negotiations stall. In many cases, it also sets the tone for how active a team intends to be once free agency begins.

February 23 – March 2: NFL Scouting Combine

Draft season officially gains momentum at the NFL Combine.

While the televised drills draw most of the public’s attention, Detroit’s front office will be focused elsewhere. Medical evaluations, team interviews, and background checks often carry more weight than athletic testing, especially for a Lions organization that places a premium on toughness, culture fit, and competitive makeup.

By the end of the week in Indianapolis, Detroit’s internal draft rankings should start to solidify.

March 9 – 11: Legal Negotiation Period Opens

Shortly after the Combine, free agency discussions become more concrete.

The legal tampering window allows teams to begin negotiating with agents before contracts can be officially executed. Although agreements are not yet signed, many deals are effectively put in place during this period.

If Detroit plans to move quickly — either by re-signing key contributors or targeting outside help — this is when those plans are likely to surface.

March 11 at 4:00 PM ET: Free Agency Begins

Free agency officially opens at 4:00 PM Eastern on March 11.

At that moment, contracts can be finalized, trades processed, and rosters reshaped across the league. For the Lions, this phase will test Brad Holmes’ ability to balance cap management with the urgency of competing for a title.

Detroit has traditionally avoided overspending, but with the team firmly in its competitive prime, this year’s free agency period carries added intrigue.

April 23 – 25: NFL Draft

The offseason reaches its peak with the NFL Draft.

After months of preparation, Detroit will have the chance to add young talent capable of contributing both immediately and in the future. Whether the focus is depth, developmental prospects, or instant-impact players, the draft remains central to Holmes’ long-term vision.

When draft weekend concludes, much of the framework for the 2026 Lions roster will be set.

While the Super Bowl has come and gone, Detroit’s most important work is only beginning.

From early contract decisions to free agency maneuvering and draft selections, the next two months will play a major role in determining whether the Lions can elevate themselves from contender to true Super Bowl favorite.

For a franchise no longer in rebuild mode, the margin for error is slimmer — and every move carries real weight.