With the Los Angeles Rams’ all-in move, trading for defensive end Myles Garrett, they seem to have assumed the biggest favorite for Super Bowl 61. It would be hard to argue against that. With them returning most of the offensive roster that produced the most points in the NFL last year and adding a bunch of huge defensive pieces—Garrett, Trent McDuffie, and Jaylen Watson—it certainly looks like the most talented roster in football.
But as we all know, the most talented roster is not always the one
who walks away with the Lombardi Trophy. If your team is good enough, they’re going to have a chance.
So today’s Question of the Day is:
Where do the Lions rank in the NFC for the 2026 season?
My answer: Well, before I get into my thoughts, let’s see how others view them.
Per FanDuel, the Lions have the fourth-best odds to win the NFC. Current rankings:
- Rams: +350 odds to win NFC Championship
- Seahawks: +550
- 49ers: +850
- Lions: +900
- Eagles: +950
If NFL power rankings are your thing, here’s where the Lions stand in the NFC in several different publications:
- ESPN: 7th (11th overall — Seahawks, Rams, Eagles, Packers, 49ers, Bears ahead)
- PFSN: 6th (10th overall — Rams, Seahawks, 49ers, Bears, Packers)
- Fox Sports: 7th (15th overall — Rams, Seahawks, Eagles, Bears, 49ers, Packers)
Looking at these lists, it would appear the Lions are just barely a playoff team. However, ESPN’s Mike Clay 2026 projections fall closer to the Vegas odds, with him ranking the Lions’ roster fourth best in the entire NFL, only behind the Rams, Ravens, and Eagles.
I’m willing to cede the Rams and Seahawks with relative ease. Their rosters are currently on another level, justifying the gap in NFC Championship odds between those two teams and everyone else. After that, I think the Lions at least have a case for being on the same tier as the Eagles, 49ers, Packers, and Bears.
If Detroit’s additions along the offensive and defensive lines prove to be difference-makers, then I would have no problem putting them third. However, if the Lions’ offensive line struggles and pass rushing efficiency remain issues, it’s hard to see the results being that much different than last year.
But I’m curious what y’all think. Where would you rank the Lions’ roster compared to the other NFC teams?
