The Detroit Lions aren’t considered favorites for the NFC this year, but it may surprise you to hear that they still remain NFC North favorites, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. As we’ve pointed out several times this offseason, Detroit’s roster remains pretty darn strong, and we’re not the only one who think that way.
But like any team, there are concerns and ways the upcoming season could go wrong. Whether it’s being thin at a certain position and vulnerable to injuries, or a player who is not yet reliable, every team has its warts, and the Lions are no exception.
Advertisement
So today’s Question of the Day is:
What is your biggest concern for the 2026 Lions?
My answer: Rather than give you a position or a player, I’m going to answer this question based on what I think the Lions may struggled to do. The answer to that? Defend the slot position.
Not only did the Lions lose their best nickel corner this offseason when Amik Robertson signed with the Washington Commanders, but another answer to stopping receivers or tight ends in the slot—linebacker Alex Anzalone—also departed in free agency.
Detroit has said openly that they play on playing more nickel looks this year—likely a response to losing Anzalone—but there are nearly as many questions in Detroit’s secondary as there are at linebacker. Roger McCreary was a savvy offseason signing and the leading candidate to win the nickel job, but he had an up-and-down spring with Detroit. Outside of McCreary, there isn’t a lot of depth at nickel, with rookie Keith Abney possibly the next guy up. The Lions do have a few safeties who could come down and help the Lions at nickel, including Avonte Maddox and Christian Izien, but not have the trustworthiness of Anzalone and Robertson.
Advertisement
In short, I do fear this team will struggle to defend slot receivers and tight ends this year.
What is your biggest concern for the 2026 Lions right now? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
And happy Father’s Day to everyone out there. Whether you are a dad, were highly influenced by your father, or had an important father figure in your life, take some time to celebrate that today.
Every year, I share the story about how my dad shaped by Lions fandom. It’ll be 10 years in December.
