Detroit Lions on SI writers weigh in on what Holmes should do this offseason to make the Lions playoff contenders in 2026.
1.) How big of a letdown was the Lions’ loss to the Vikings?
Christian Booher: There are many ways to describe the Lions’ performance in Minnesota, and “disappointing” fits well.
Facing a Vikings team missing key players, Detroit seemed positioned to dominate—but the offense struggled mightily and turned the ball over six times. It wasn’t just disappointing; it was shocking. Even with Taylor Decker out, the offense should have performed better.
Vito Chirco: It was extremely disappointing. After starting the season with Super Bowl hopes, Detroit looked nothing like a contender in Week 17, producing just 10 points and 231 total yards with six turnovers. It was easily the worst performance of the season.
2.) When did the season start to unravel?
Booher: The turning point was the first loss to Minnesota after the bye week. A win would have put the Lions at 6-2 and in control of their division.
Following that loss, Dan Campbell began calling plays himself, and the team’s struggles worsened. Injuries played a role, but other problems—like a vulnerable secondary, poor run defense, and inconsistent scoring—also contributed.
Chirco: Week 9 marked the real slide, when Detroit lost at home to the Vikings.
That loss kicked off a stretch where the Lions lost six of nine games, including a second defeat to Minnesota. The team’s performance since then has rarely looked playoff-caliber.
3.) What major changes are needed?
Booher: Drastic changes may not be necessary, but the team faces potential losses. Offensive tackle Taylor Decker could retire, creating a gap on the offensive line.
Detroit also needs an impact defensive player, whether an edge rusher or a shutdown corner, to improve the pass rush and secondary.
Chirco: Both the offensive and defensive lines need an upgrade.
Detroit has been beaten in the trenches too often this year. Additionally, the team should consider replacing John Morton with a proven offensive play-caller, allowing Dan Campbell to focus solely on coaching from the sideline.
4.) Could the team’s struggles worsen in 2026?
Booher: It’s unlikely things get much worse. The Lions still have key players under contract, and a healthy roster should perform better, especially against a weaker schedule.
However, failure to improve could leave Detroit hovering around .500 again.
Chirco: I don’t expect a decline, but without meaningful roster upgrades, Detroit may only reach eight or nine wins—far from enough for a playoff spot.
5.) What should be Holmes’ first roster move?
Booher: The Lions will likely need to free up salary cap space before being aggressive in free agency. This might require releasing some veteran players.
Once in free agency, Detroit should target affordable players who can address needs like the interior offensive line or pass rush, while maintaining some roster continuity.
Chirco: The top priority should be signing a proven center or another veteran interior lineman. Since Frank Ragnow retired, Detroit has lacked stability at the position.
Upgrading the center spot is crucial for anchoring the offensive line.
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