Detroit Lions listed as likely risers in 2026 NFL season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 5:41 PM
Last updated Aug 24, 2026

ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell identified the Detroit Lions as one of five NFL teams poised for improvement in the 2026 season. After finishing the 2025 season with a 9-8 record and missing the playoffs, the Lions have several factors that could indicate a rebound. Barnwell noted their significantly low fumble recovery rate and injuries that might regress positively in the upcoming season. Additionally, Detroit faces a relatively easier schedule, which could aid their performance.
- •Detroit Lions finished the 2025 season at 9-8, missing the playoffs.
- •Lions had the lowest fumble recovery rate in the league at 29%.
- •Key players faced significant injuries during the 2025 season.
- •Lions will play four games against teams from the NFC South in 2026.
- •Bill Barnwell included the Lions in his annual list of teams likely to improve.
- 5:41 PMYahoo Sports — Detroit Lions among teams most likely to improve in 2026, per ESPN
"All signs are pointing to a rebound season for the 2026 Detroit Lions.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Oct 24, 2026, 10:30 PMBroncos make decision on RB Jonah Coleman ahead of Cardinals game
NFL•Oct 24, 2026, 10:28 PMFred Warner was fined for hit on a defenseless player, Malik Mustapha was not
NFL•Oct 24, 2026, 10:12 PMNFL levies two fines to 49ers LB Fred Warner for hit on Commanders TE Chig Okonkwo
NFL•Oct 24, 2026, 9:25 PMRavens Receive Promising Lamar Jackson News Ahead of Bengals Clash
NFL•Oct 24, 2026, 8:26 PMDetroit Lions activate Brian Branch, Cade Mays for Packers game
NFL•Oct 24, 2026, 8:04 PMFormer NFL player compares Commanders LB Sonny Styles to 49ers superstar
