It seems every year, some Detroit Lions player takes the next step to become a key player or even a star. Last year, it was both Jack Campbell and Al-Quadin Muhammad. You could even make arguments for Roy Lopez or Avonte Maddox.
The year before, it was Jahmyr Gibbs, Jameson Williams, and Amik Robertson taking their game to another level. And in 2023, it was Ifeatu Melifonwu and Sam LaPorta.
If the Lions are to make a deep playoff run in 2026, they will need at least a player or two to step up and become
one of the team’s foundational players in 2026. So today’s Question of the Day is:
Who will be the Lions’ breakout star in 2026?
My answer: Typically, the answer to this question comes from either a second or third-year player, and the Lions have a few worthy candidates who could make that jump in 2026. I’m going to break down three.
Terrion Arnold
Last year looked like a potential breakout season for Arnold after an impressive training camp. But a rocky start to the regular season put a damper on expectations. Just when it seemed like he may be turning the corner, a shoulder injury derailed—and eventually ended—his season. There’s still reason to believe he can turn it around and become a great starter, but it also needs to happen this year or it may not happen at all.
Tyleik Williams
Admittedly, it’s going to be tough for Williams to be a defensive star when his best ability is to eat double teams and hold his ground. That’s not a particularly flashy style of play, even if it is critical in Detroit’s defensive scheme. But if Williams can tap into some of the pass rushing potential the Lions raved about during the draft process, we could see an Alim McNeill type of jump.
Tate Ratledge
Ratledge was the Lions’ second-best offensive lineman by the end of 2025, and he was playing like a top-20 guard in the NFL. Whether it’s at guard or center in 2026, Ratledge comes into his second year with pretty high expectations. Assuming the Lions invest in the offensive line this offseason, he should also be surrounded by a better supporting cast. That’s why, of these three, Ratledge is my prediction for 2026 Detroit Lions Breakout Player of the Year.
Who do you think could break out in 2026? Share your answers in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
