The Detroit Lions have been in full offseason mode since their 19–16 win over the Chicago Bears on January 4, a victory that ultimately closed the book on their 2025 campaign. Since then, much of the organization’s focus has shifted toward finding the team’s next offensive coordinator and evaluating how to rebound in 2026.
While Detroit has been idle, the NFL playoffs have rolled on — including a surprising run by the Chicago Bears, led by former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
Bears’ Playoff Exit Brings Relief to Lions Fans
Johnson helped engineer one of the league’s biggest turnarounds this season, guiding the Bears from last place in the NFC North to a division title. Watching Chicago thrive while Detroit missed out on a deeper postseason run was understandably frustrating for many Lions fans, especially after Detroit’s season ended abruptly in its first playoff game despite lofty expectations.
However, the Lions woke up to news that may ease some of that frustration.
The Bears were eliminated from the playoffs on Sunday, January 18, falling to the Los Angeles Rams in a heartbreaking 20–17 overtime loss. With Chicago now joining Detroit in the offseason, no NFC North teams remain in playoff contention, resetting the division heading into 2026.
For Lions fans, it means no more watching Johnson and the Bears advance — and a reminder that next season presents a fresh opportunity for everyone.
Matthew Stafford’s Success Adds Another Silver Lining
The playoff result also delivered another bit of positive news for Detroit supporters. The Rams’ win keeps Matthew Stafford, the Lions’ longtime former quarterback, alive in the postseason.
Although Stafford hasn’t played in Detroit for years, many fans still root for the veteran quarterback after more than a decade with the franchise. With retirement rumors swirling, this could be Stafford’s final NFL season, making his continued success all the more meaningful for Lions fans watching from afar.
Detroit Lions Searching for Offensive Coordinator Replacement
While the playoffs continue elsewhere, Detroit faces important decisions internally. The Lions are actively searching for a new offensive coordinator after firing John Morton on January 6, following just one season with the team.
Head coach Dan Campbell handled offensive play-calling duties for much of the season, a move that produced mixed — and often disappointing — results. When asked whether he would continue calling plays in 2026, Campbell left the door open.
“I’m open to anything. I don’t know exactly where I’m at with that yet,” Campbell said. “One of the perks would be not worrying about your play-caller leaving.”
Still, Detroit’s offense showed greater consistency when someone else handled play-calling duties in the past, including during the team’s previous playoff runs. As the Lions prepare for a pivotal offseason, finding the right offensive coordinator could be the key to getting back into contention.
