One of the top questions facing the Detroit Lions during the 2026 NFL offseason is how the team will address quarterback depth behind Jared Goff.

The Lions entered the 2025 season with Kyle Allen as their backup after parting ways with Hendon Hooker, but Allen is now set to hit free agency, leaving Detroit with no quarterbacks under contract behind Goff. While Goff has been extremely durable since arriving in Detroit, the Lions still need a reliable backup and emergency option moving forward.

A new opportunity may have just opened up.

Eagles Move On From Kyle McCord

According to Inside the Birds reporter Andrew DiCecco, the Philadelphia Eagles have allowed Kyle McCord’s contract to expire, making the former sixth-round pick an unrestricted free agent. McCord has already been linked to the Lions as a potential fit, and his availability makes even more sense given Detroit’s current roster situation.

McCord was selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft and spent his rookie season gaining experience within a playoff-caliber organization. Although he has not started a regular-season NFL game, he represents a low-cost, developmental option at quarterback—exactly the type of move Detroit has made in the past.

Lions Could Develop McCord as Long-Term Backup

The Lions previously attempted to develop Hendon Hooker into a long-term backup and emergency starter. McCord could fill a similar role, with the added benefit of offering more upside as a passer.

Even if McCord doesn’t immediately push for a roster spot, he provides insurance and competition during the offseason and training camp. At minimum, he could grow into a dependable emergency quarterback, something every contending team needs.

Kyle McCord’s College Production Adds Appeal

McCord brings an impressive college résumé that could attract teams seeking inexpensive quarterback depth. He holds Syracuse’s single-season passing record, throwing for 4,779 yards during the 2024 season. That production helped him earn an NFL draft selection despite limited athleticism.

For Detroit, McCord checks several important boxes:

Affordable contract

No threat to Jared Goff’s starting role

Experience in a winning NFL environment

Developmental upside as Goff ages

Why McCord Makes Sense for Detroit

The Lions don’t need to spend big money on a veteran backup or bring in a quarterback who could become a distraction. With Goff firmly entrenched as the starter, Detroit is better served adding a young, cost-controlled project quarterback.

Signing McCord would allow the Lions to stabilize the quarterback room early in the offseason, freeing the front office to focus on rebuilding the offensive line and addressing a defense that struggled late in the 2025 season.

All signs point to Kyle McCord being a smart, low-risk addition for the Detroit Lions—and a logical landing spot for the former Eagles quarterback as he looks to carve out a role in the NFL.