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Tag: Detroit Lions

  • 5-Time Pro Bowler Does Not Want to Play Aidan Hutchinson Ever Again

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    Detroit Lions fans have watched Aidan Hutchinson evolve from a promising rookie to a full-blown defensive nightmare. Now, one of the best offensive tackles of the past two decades has confirmed what Detroit already knows: Hutchinson is a problem no lineman wants to deal with.

    During a recent appearance on the St. Brown Podcast, now-retired five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Terron Armstead offered one of the strongest compliments imaginable—by admitting he never wants to see Hutchinson across the line of scrimmage again.

    “He’s an alien, bro”

    Armstead was originally discussing how modern edge rushers—specifically Jared Verse—contributed to his decision to retire after the 2025 season. His point was simple: players are bigger, faster, smarter, and more technically refined than ever.

    Then, unprompted, he brought up Hutchinson.

    “I played Aidan his rookie year, and he’s an alien, bro,” Armstead said as quoted by Pride of Detroit. “I had no idea he was 6-(foot)-7. I’m thinking he’s 6-3, 6-4. I see the kid, he’s like 6-9.”

    For a veteran tackle who’s faced elite rushers for over a decade, that physical shock alone says plenty.

    What really stood out: Hutchinson’s mind

    Armstead made it clear that Hutchinson wasn’t just overwhelming because of size or effort—it was his ability to process at an elite level as a rookie that caught his attention.

    “And with most rookies, I can change up sets, they can’t read it. Jump sets, all of that,” Armstead said.
    “He’s seeing all of it. He was fire, bro. His rookie year? He was fire, crazy.”

    That detail matters. Veteran tackles survive by manipulating inexperienced rushers. Armstead saying Hutchinson saw everything as a rookie is about as strong an endorsement of football IQ as you’ll hear.

    “I don’t want to play him again. Ever.”

    Here’s the quote Lions fans will bookmark forever:

    “I locked his ass up, but—in Detroit, in Detroit—he was fire, bro. I don’t want to play him again. I never want to see that kid again, ever. I’m happy I never played him (again).”

    And to be fair, Armstead isn’t lying about the results. In that 2022 matchup—when the Dolphins beat the Lions, Hutchinson was held to one tackle, three pressures.

    But that’s exactly what makes the praise so telling.

    Respect from the best hits different

    Elite players know when they’ve encountered something special—even if the box score doesn’t show it. Armstead shutting Hutchinson down that day didn’t blind him to what was coming next.

    Since then, Hutchinson has:

    • Made two Pro Bowls
    • Recorded 43.0 sacks in 56 games
    • Finished second in the NFL in pressures in 2023
    • Led the entire NFL in pressures in 2025

    Armstead didn’t see a fluke. He saw a rookie who already had the tools—and the brain—to become dominant.

    From “fire” rookie to league-wide problem

    This story perfectly captures Hutchinson’s trajectory. Even when he didn’t win every rep, he was already forcing elite tackles to dig deep into their bags.

    Now? Those bags aren’t enough.

    When a five-time Pro Bowler openly says he’s relieved he never had to line up against you again, that’s not hype. That’s earned fear—and earned respect.

    Final thoughts

    Detroit has watched Hutchinson grow in real time. But moments like this—unsolicited praise from a retired star who’s seen it all—validate everything the Lions believe they have in their franchise edge rusher.

    Aidan Hutchinson isn’t just winning with effort anymore.
    He’s winning with size, skill, intelligence, and inevitability.

    And according to Terron Armstead?
    That’s exactly why he’s glad his playing days are over.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft Big Board: Offensive Tackles

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    No matter how the Detroit Lions approach free agency, offensive tackle is shaping up as a near-certainty within the first three rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. Most league observers believe longtime left tackle Taylor Decker could retire before the 2026 season, and even if he returns for one final year, Detroit still needs a long-term succession plan at one of the most important positions on the roster.

    Brad Holmes has shown a willingness to invest premium draft capital in the offensive line, and with the Lions firmly in a Super Bowl window, they can’t afford a gap year at tackle. This year’s class offers a mix of plug-and-play starters, high-ceiling developmental athletes, and technically sound options who fit Detroit’s physical identity.

    Below is a full Lions-centric big board of offensive tackles Detroit should have heavily scouted heading into the 2026 draft cycle.

    The Prospects

    Spencer Fano — OT, Utah (6-5, 300)

    Fano has rapidly emerged as one of the most complete offensive tackles in the 2026 class. Scouts consistently praise his athletic movement skills, balance, and competitive edge, particularly in pass protection where he shows smooth footwork and strong recovery ability. He’s versatile enough to play either tackle spot and fits both zone and gap concepts. Some evaluators wonder if he’ll need to add functional strength to consistently displace NFL power rushers, but his floor is high and his polish makes him an early-starter candidate.

    Francis Mauigoa — OT, Miami (6-6, 325)

    Mauigoa looks the part of a future NFL bookend tackle. His calling card is pass-protection efficiency—quick sets, controlled hand placement, and the ability to shut down speed off the edge. He’s already drawing top-of-the-board consideration from evaluators who view him as a low-risk starter with pro-ready traits. In Detroit, he’d project cleanly as a long-term right tackle with the athleticism to slide left if needed.

    Monroe Freeling — OT, Georgia (6-7, 315)

    Freeling offers elite length and athletic traits, with the kind of body type NFL teams love developing. His pass-protection flashes are impressive, especially against speed, but he can struggle with balance and pad level when defenders convert to power. Freeling isn’t a finished product, but he has starter upside in a system willing to invest time, which aligns well with Detroit’s track record of OL development.

    Kadyn Proctor — OT, Alabama (6-7, 360)

    Proctor is the most physically imposing tackle in the class and also one of the most polarizing. When he’s right, he overwhelms defenders with sheer size and power, particularly in the run game. However, his pass protection remains inconsistent due to leverage issues and footwork that can lag behind his frame. Teams will view Proctor as a high-ceiling bet—one who could become dominant with refinement but carries real risk if technique never fully stabilizes.

    Caleb Lomu — OT, Utah (6-6, 305)

    Lomu continues Utah’s run of NFL-ready linemen. Scouts highlight his natural pass-protection instincts, length, and poise, particularly how he handles pressure without panicking. He’s still developing as a run blocker and will need to add strength to anchor against NFL bull rushes, but his profile screams “future starter” with the right strength program and coaching.

    Max Iheanachor — OT, Arizona State (6-6, 330)

    One of the most intriguing developmental tackles in the class, Iheanachor is still relatively new to football but already shows rare movement skills for a 330-pound lineman. His growth curve is steep, and recent evaluations point to significant improvement in technique and consistency. He’ll need refinement in recognition and leverage, but in the right system, he has genuine long-term starter potential.

    Blake Miller — OT, Clemson (6-6, 315)

    Miller is a traits-driven prospect with good size, athletic feet, and a physical demeanor. At his best, he can handle both speed and power; at his worst, mental lapses against twists and blitzes lead to pressures and penalties. Teams see him as a Day 2 upside swing, where strong coaching could turn him into a reliable starter rather than a rotational lineman.

    Caleb Tiernan — OT, Northwestern (6-7, 320)

    Tiernan doesn’t dominate with athleticism or raw power, but he wins with technique, leverage, and intelligence. Scouts consistently describe him as a high-floor prospect capable of providing quality depth early with the potential to start in a pinch. He profiles as a dependable swing tackle who could quietly exceed expectations in a stable offensive system like Detroit’s.

    Austin Barber — OT, Florida (6-6, 314)

    Barber brings SEC experience, physical hands, and positional versatility. He plays with toughness and finishes in the run game, though pass protection remains the swing skill that will determine his long-term position. Some teams may see him as a guard/tackle hybrid, while others believe he can stick outside with continued refinement. He’s viewed as a reliable, experienced option who could contribute early in a rotation.

    Bottom Line

    If Taylor Decker’s career is nearing its final chapter—and all signs suggest it may be—the Detroit Lions cannot afford to delay their next tackle investment. This 2026 offensive tackle class gives Detroit flexibility: early-round starters like Spencer Fano or Francis Mauigoa, upside swings like Kadyn Proctor or Max Iheanachor, and steady depth options who fit the Lions’ culture.

    With Detroit’s proven offensive line development and a coaching staff that values toughness, intelligence, and versatility, expect the Lions to come out of the 2026 NFL Draft with a tackle who isn’t just depth—but a future cornerstone.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Detroit Lions Among NFL’s Elite as 2026 Win Totals Are Released

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    Despite falling short of the postseason in 2025, the Detroit Lions are still being treated like one of the NFL’s elite by oddsmakers.

    , and Detroit’s number is set at 10.5 wins, with the over priced at –130 and the under at +110.

    That’s a notable vote of confidence for a team coming off a 9–7 record in 2025, a season that ended without a playoff berth. Even after that step back in the standings, betting markets are clearly expecting a bounce-back year in Detroit.

    A Strong Bet on a Lions Rebound

    The Lions’ placement at 10.5 wins isn’t an isolated projection, it puts them in a crowded tier of contenders.

    Ten NFL teams share the same 10.5 over/under for the 2026 season, a group that includes traditional heavyweights and recent Super Bowl contenders. That tells you exactly how sportsbooks view Detroit: not as a fringe playoff team, but as one expected to re-enter the postseason conversation in a meaningful way.

    For perspective, teams at or above 10.5 wins are generally expected to:

    • Compete for division titles
    • Win at least one playoff game
    • Carry legitimate conference-title expectations

    Vegas doesn’t hand out numbers like this lightly, especially to teams that missed the playoffs the previous year.

    NFC North Expectations Remain High

    Within the NFC North, Detroit is still viewed as a top-tier team.

    • Lions: 10.5 wins
    • Packers: 10.5 wins
    • Bears: 9.5 wins
    • Vikings: 8.5 wins

    Even after a 9–7 finish in 2025, Detroit remains tied with Green Bay atop the division odds. Chicago and Minnesota are projected a full game or more behind, reinforcing the idea that the Lions’ playoff absence last season is being treated as an outlier rather than a trend.

    Full 2026 NFL Over/Under Win Totals

    Below is the complete list of 2026 regular-season win totals and odds for all 32 teams:

    Team Over Odds Under Odds
    Cardinals 4.5 -110 4.5 -110
    Falcons 6.5 -140 6.5 +115
    Ravens 10.5 -145 10.5 +120
    Bills 10.5 -125 10.5 +105
    Panthers 6.5 -120 6.5 +100
    Bears 9.5 +100 9.5 -120
    Bengals 9.5 -115 9.5 -105
    Browns 6.5 +100 6.5 -120
    Cowboys 8.5 -130 8.5 +110
    Broncos 9.5 -110 9.5 -110
    Lions 10.5 -130 10.5 +110
    Packers 10.5 +100 10.5 -120
    Texans 9.5 -110 9.5 -110
    Colts 8.5 +105 8.5 -125
    Jaguars 9.5 +100 9.5 -120
    Chiefs 10.5 -105 10.5 -115
    Chargers 10.5 +110 10.5 -130
    Rams 10.5 -140 10.5 +115
    Raiders 5.5 +115 5.5 -140
    Dolphins 4.5 -110 4.5 -110
    Vikings 8.5 +115 8.5 -140
    Patriots 9.5 -140 9.5 +115
    Saints 7.5 +100 7.5 -120
    Giants 7.5 +110 7.5 -130
    Jets 5.5 +115 5.5 -140
    Eagles 10.5 +105 10.5 -125
    Steelers 8.5 +115 8.5 -140
    Seahawks 10.5 -130 10.5 +110
    49ers 10.5 +125 10.5 -150
    Buccaneers 8.5 -140 8.5 +115
    Titans 6.5 -140 6.5 +115
    Commanders 7.5 -110 7.5 -110

    What This Means for Detroit in 2026

    For a team coming off a 9–7 season without a playoff spot, a 10.5 win projection is significant. It suggests sportsbooks believe Detroit’s core remains strong, the coaching staff is trusted, and the regression in 2025 isn’t viewed as permanent.

    The Lions are being priced like a team expected to get back to double-digit wins — and back into the postseason.

    That’s pressure, sure. But it’s also respect.

    And for Detroit, that’s still a relatively new feeling.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Proposed Blockbuster Trade Sends Maxx Crosby to Detroit Lions Rival

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    Every so often, a hypothetical trade pops up that makes Detroit Lions fans stop scrolling and say, “Wait… what?”

    This is one of those.

    While the Lions themselves weren’t included in ESPN’s latest batch of trade proposals, one idea involving the Chicago Bears and Las Vegas Raiders should absolutely set off alarm bells in Detroit, because it would drop one of the NFL’s most destructive defenders right into the NFC North.

    The Trade That Could Change the Division

    In a proposal outlined by ESPN’s Bill Barnwell, the Bears would acquire Maxx Crosby from the Raiders in exchange for wide receiver DJ Moore and a 2026 first-round pick, plus a late pick swap.

    If that sounds terrifying from a Lions perspective, it should.

    Crosby lining up twice a year against Jared Goff, alongside an already aggressive Chicago defense, would dramatically shift the balance of power in the division.

    Why the Bears Might Actually Consider It

    Barnwell explained why Chicago could be willing to move on from Moore, even though he’s been one of their most productive offensive players:

    “I’m not sure Johnson really loves Moore. The Bears will be locked into Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III — both on rookie deals — as two of their top wide receivers in 2026. Colston Loveland will command a ton of targets.”

    Barnwell went further, suggesting scheme and personnel preferences could make Moore expendable:

    “The Bears could move on from Cole Kmet, but what if Johnson wants to live in 12 personnel more often? What if he prefers Olamide Zaccheaus as a third receiver on a much cheaper contract, given the journeyman’s blocking ability? Moore’s a better player, but the Bears can find a replacement for his targets at a much cheaper cost.”

    From a Lions standpoint, this is where the concern starts to grow. If Ben Johnson — now Chicago’s head coach — is willing to sacrifice offensive firepower to supercharge the defense, that’s a problem.

    Why the Raiders Would Listen

    Barnwell also laid out why Las Vegas could be motivated to move their defensive star, especially with a rookie quarterback on the way:

    “The Raiders, meanwhile, need to add help at wide receiver for presumptive No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza. Speedy flanker Tre Tucker profiles as a secondary option, while 2025 draft picks Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton Jr. failed to impress in their rookie seasons, racking up a combined 42 catches for 445 yards.”

    He continued:

    “Klint Kubiak should lean into 12 personnel with Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, but Vegas still needs a starting-caliber wideout.”

    And while free agency could offer alternatives, Barnwell made it clear Moore would be a clean solution:

    “Raiders GM John Spytek could look toward his old stomping grounds in Tampa Bay and attempt to sign Mike Evans if the future Hall of Famer hits free agency. But Moore would be a much-needed addition for the Raiders, who need to surround Mendoza with talent to ensure that their new QB can live up to expectations.”

    Why Maxx Crosby in Chicago Is a Nightmare Scenario

    Barnwell didn’t mince words about what Crosby would do for the Bears’ defense:

    “Crosby pushes everyone into the right role, notably Sweat, who would see far fewer double-teams.”

    That’s the sentence Lions fans should read twice.

    A Bears front featuring Crosby and Montez Sweat would instantly become one of the most dangerous pass-rushing units Detroit has faced in years.

    Barnwell acknowledged the cost — but framed it as a calculated gamble:

    “Giving up a first-round pick would be painful, and the Bears need to address safety with Jaquan Brisker hitting free agency. But if they think they’re close to making a deeper playoff run, adding Crosby would be one way to leverage Caleb Williams’ rookie-scale salary.”

    The Lions Angle: This Is Exactly What Detroit Doesn’t Want

    From Detroit’s point of view, this proposal is alarming for one simple reason: it makes a division rival significantly tougher in the exact area that causes problems for the Lions.

    • Elite edge rushers disrupt Detroit’s timing offense
    • NFC North matchups swing on quarterback pressure
    • Crosby is the type of defender who wrecks game plans

    The Lions have spent years climbing to the top of the division. A move like this by Chicago would threaten that balance immediately.

    Final Thought

    This trade isn’t guaranteed to happen — but it’s realistic enough to matter.

    And if the Bears do manage to land Maxx Crosby?
    Detroit Lions fans will remember this proposal as the moment they realized the NFC North arms race had officially escalated.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Detroit Lions Linked to Top 5 NFL Cornerback

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    As the Detroit Lions continue to search for answers at cornerback, one national voice believes the solution could come from Tampa Bay.

    Fox Sports NFL reporter Greg Auman recently predicted that the Lions could land Buccaneers cornerback Jamel Dean in free agency, a move that would immediately upgrade Detroit’s secondary as the team pushes deeper into its Super Bowl window.

    Dean, 29, put together one of the more impressive seasons of any defensive back in the league in 2025. After agreeing to an $8 million pay cut to remain with the Buccaneers, he turned around and delivered a career-defining year, finishing with three interceptions and two forced fumbles.

    The analytics loved it.

    Pro Football Focus graded Dean as the No. 5 cornerback in the NFL and ranked him as the No. 5 overall free agent at any position, making him one of the most intriguing defenders set to hit the market.

    Why Auman Sees Dean as a Lions Fit

    Auman’s prediction isn’t just about talent, it’s about timing.

    Detroit is firmly in win-now mode, and Dean fits the exact profile of a free agent the Lions have targeted under Brad Holmes: proven, productive, and still in his prime.

    Dean previously earned $12 million per year in Tampa Bay, and while the Buccaneers would welcome him back, his situation is unique. He’s spent his entire NFL career playing for Todd Bowles, and free agency would represent his first real opportunity to test the open market.

    That’s where Detroit enters the picture.

    The Lions have the cap space, roster stability, and urgency to justify a significant investment at cornerback. Pairing Dean with D.J. Reed while allowing Terrion Arnold to continue developing would give Detroit a more balanced, reliable secondary, something that proved critical late in the 2025 season.

    A Move That Fits Detroit’s Culture

    What stands out most about Dean’s profile is how he responded to adversity. Instead of coasting after restructuring his contract, he elevated his game.

    That matters in Detroit.

    The Lions have consistently prioritized players who bet on themselves, embrace accountability, and respond when challenged. Dean’s 2025 season checked every one of those boxes.

    If Tampa Bay can’t match the market, or if Dean decides he’s ready for a new chapter, Greg Auman’s prediction points to Detroit as a very real landing spot.

    For a team chasing a championship, adding one of the league’s top-graded cornerbacks would send a clear message: the Lions are all-in.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Detroit Lions Super Bowl LXI Opening Odds Revealed

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    Super Bowl LX is officially in the books, with the Seattle Seahawks defeating the New England Patriots 29–13. While the confetti has barely settled, oddsmakers have already turned the page.

    , we now have an early look at the Super Bowl LXI futures market for the 2026–27 NFL season, and more importantly, where the Detroit Lions stand heading into the next championship race.

    Super Bowl LXI Details

    • Date: February 14, 2027
    • Location: SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, California)
    • Broadcast: ESPN / ABC
    • Notes: Ninth Super Bowl in the Los Angeles area, second at SoFi Stadium

    Detroit Lions Outlook

    The Lions open at +1400, placing them firmly in the second tier of contenders. That puts Detroit alongside the Packers and just behind elite early favorites like the Seahawks, Rams, Bills, Eagles, Patriots, and Ravens.

    In other words, Vegas still views Detroit as a legitimate Super Bowl threat, even as the roster transitions into the post–Frank Ragnow era. The Lions remain squarely inside their championship window.

    A $100 wager on Detroit at +1400 would return $1,400 in profit if the Lions lift the Lombardi Trophy in February 2027.

    Super Bowl LXI (2027) Odds – DraftKings

    Team Odds Team Odds
    Seattle Seahawks +950 Los Angeles Rams +950
    Buffalo Bills +1100 Philadelphia Eagles +1300
    New England Patriots +1300 Baltimore Ravens +1300
    Green Bay Packers +1400 Detroit Lions +1400
    Los Angeles Chargers +1500 Kansas City Chiefs +1500
    San Francisco 49ers +1700 Houston Texans +1900
    Denver Broncos +1900 Jacksonville Jaguars +2000
    Chicago Bears +2500 Cincinnati Bengals +2800
    Dallas Cowboys +3500 Tampa Bay Buccaneers +4000
    Washington Commanders +6000 Pittsburgh Steelers +6000
    Minnesota Vikings +6000 Indianapolis Colts +6000
    New York Giants +7000 Atlanta Falcons +8000
    Tennessee Titans +10000 New Orleans Saints +10000
    Carolina Panthers +10000 Cleveland Browns +15000
    New York Jets +20000 Las Vegas Raiders +20000
    Miami Dolphins +25000 Arizona Cardinals +25000

    Bottom Line

    For a franchise that once lived at the very bottom of futures boards, seeing the Detroit Lions priced among the league’s true contenders is no longer surprising — it’s expected.

    Vegas believes in Detroit.
    The window is open.
    And heading into 2027, the Lions are still very much in the Super Bowl conversation

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Welcome ‘Josh and Jase’ to Ford Field

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    The Detroit Lions gave a special shoutout this week to two unexpected, but wildly popular, visitors to the state of Michigan.

    In a post shared on social media, Detroit Lions and Ford Field welcomed Josh and Jase, a British travel duo who have gone viral during their recent journey across the Mitten State.

    “All of Michigan has loved having you here, and so did we,” Ford Field wrote, alongside a photo of the pair standing on the Lions’ home turf.

    So… Who Are Josh and Jase?

    Josh and Jase are UK-based content creators who document their travels across the United States, focusing on small towns, local food, and everyday American culture. Their appeal isn’t flashy production or influencer hype, it’s authenticity.

    They walk into diners, talk to locals, explore places most tourists skip, and let each location tell its own story. That approach has earned them a massive following and, lately, a near-legendary status in Michigan.

    Why Michigan Fell in Love With Them

    Over the past several weeks, Josh and Jase have been spotted all over the state — from lakeshore towns and downtown districts to neighborhood restaurants and hidden gems. Social media quickly turned their trip into a statewide scavenger hunt, with fans tracking sightings, sharing videos, and welcoming them like hometown heroes.

    At some point, their Michigan tour crossed from “cool travel content” into full-blown cultural moment.

    Detroit Lions welcome Josh and Jase

    Ford Field Makes It Official

    Their visit to Ford Field felt like a milestone.

    Standing on the turf inside one of the NFL’s most iconic indoor stadiums, Josh and Jase officially reached “you’ve made it” status in Michigan. When an NFL franchise publicly welcomes you, it’s safe to say the state has embraced you.

    The Bottom Line

    Josh and Jase didn’t come to Michigan chasing headlines — but they left with them anyway.

    By leaning into the people, places, and personality of the state, they turned a travel stop into something much bigger. And with the Detroit Lions now welcoming them to Ford Field, their Michigan chapter has officially become part of the story.

    Honorary Lions?
    Michigan seems to think so.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Minnesota Gophers bring back career rushing leader Mohamed Ibrahim to coach running backs

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    Minnesota has brought back all-time leading rusher Mohamed Ibrahim as running backs coach, one of eight new hires to the staff announced Friday by coach P.J. Fleck.

    Ibrahim, who spent six years at Minnesota and the 2023 season in the NFL with the Detroit Lions, worked with the Gophers in 2024. He was running backs coach at Kent State last year. Ibrahim finished his college career with 4,668 rushing yards and 53 touchdowns, which was also a Gophers record.

    Another former Gophers player, Isaac Fruechte, was hired as wide receivers coach after serving as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at North Dakota for the last two seasons. Fruechte played for Minnesota from 2012-14 and spent three years in the NFL with the Vikings and Lions before beginning his coaching career.

    Fruechte replaces Matt Simon, who was not retained after finishing his ninth season under Fleck with the Gophers. Simon also served as co-offensive coordinator, so that role will now be handled solely by Greg Harbaugh Jr. Simon was one of four primary position coaches and eight assistants overall who won’t return in 2026.

    Another notable addition was Matt Limegrover as assistant offensive line coach. Limegrover was the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach for the Gophers from 2011-15 under coach Jerry Kill, before departing for Penn State. He was most recently the offensive line coach at Kent State from 2023-24.

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    CBS Minnesota

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  • Little Caesars launches $4.99 Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix – Detroit Metro Times

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    Detroit-style pizza continues to take the world by storm.

    Little Caesars is expanding its deep dish Detroit-style pizza offerings with a new menu item.

    It cooked up “Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix,” a single-serve meal for $4.99 that includes two slices of Detroit-Style Deep Dish pepperoni pizza, four pieces of Italian cheese bread, and Crazy Sauce.

    The budget-friendly Motor City-based chain has partnered with Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown to promote the product.

    “Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix delivers big flavor and value in a convenient, single-serve meal,” said Greg Hamilton, Chief Marketing Officer at Little Caesars. “It’s perfect for people who want something quick, hearty, and satisfying, without sacrificing taste. We’re excited to introduce this new way to enjoy Detroit-Style Pizza.”

    The Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix will be available from Little Caesars stores nationwide starting Monday, Jan. 19.

    Related story

    Ranking the best Detroit-style pizzas

    Thick, crispy, cheesy, and unmistakably Detroit.  The city’s signature square pizza is a true local classic that has earned its place alongside New York’s foldable pies and Chicago’s deep-dish slabs.…



    Leyland “Lee” DeVito is the editor in chief of Detroit Metro Times since 2016. His writing has also been published in CREEM, VICE, In These Times, and New City.

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    Lee DeVito

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  • A Wonderful Wildcard Weekend in Philadelphia. – Philadelphia Sports Nation

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    •••

    Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X.

    Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X.

    It’s difficult to believe that with all of the success that the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers with 167 years of existence in the NFL between the two franchises — that the Eagles and 49ers have only met twice in the NFC Playoffs. The first contest — occurring thirty years ago this year in December of 1996 — was a 14–0 Eagles loss to the 49ers in San Francisco.

    But it’s the NFC Wildcard matchup that occurred just over thirty-years ago in December of 1995 at Veteran’s Stadium would become one of the most memorable in Eagles history.

    The very start of this memorable moment in Philadelphia sports history actually started the week before the game. Ray Rhodes’ Philadelphia team was seeded fourth— but the high-powered (Lions) who had an offense ranked #1 in the NFL and #5 in the NFC Playoffs were actually the favorites going into game. During the week — Lions Offensive Tackle (Lomas Brown) added fuel to the fire when he guaranteed a win in Philadelphia.

    On a frigid afternoon in Philadelphia — the Eagles opened the game with 3-point advantage. Then the flood gates then opened for Philadelphia. Eagles Defensive Back Barry Wilburn took a Scott Mitchell interception twenty-four yards for a score. Eagles quarterback Rodney Peete then connected with Fred Barnett for a twenty-two yard touchdown. Ricky Watters then plunged in for a one-yard score for Philadelphia. Right before halftime — Eagles wide receiver Rob Carpenter caught a 43-yard Hail Mary to cap a 31-point second quarter and a 38–7 lead at intermission to the thrill of over sixty-six thousand Philadelphia fans.

    In the third quarter — Jon Gruden’s offense was still on fire for the Eagles in the cold of January. Eagles running back Ricky Watters would then haul in a forty-five yard scoring pass from Peete and eventually a 51–7 advantage.

    Fans who attended the 58–37 game saw one of the most points ever scored in an NFL Postseason Contest. After another interception by Greg Jackson in the 3rd quarter — Scott Mitchell let loose into a verbal tirade on the sideline subsequent to being benched. Veteran Don Majkowski did attempt to lead the Lions back but the rally was cut short by a thirty-yard William Thomas interception return for a touchdown. One year later after a 5–11 start— Wayne Fontes was fired as the Lions Head Coach, and All-Pro running back Barry Sanders retired three years later in 1999.

    And the second time that the Eagles played the 49ers in the playoffs? It was right here at Lincoln Financial Field in the 2023 NFC Championship Game — a 31–7 win for Philadelphia.

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    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • Big-Time Offensive Mind Enters the Detroit Lions’ Offensive Coordinator Search

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    The Detroit Lions are continuing their search for a new offensive coordinator and have added another intriguing name to their interview list.

    According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks coach Tee Martin is scheduled to interview with the Lions on Monday for the open OC position. Martin has been part of the Ravens’ offensive staff for five seasons, including the last three working directly with the quarterback room, helping guide Lamar Jackson and one of the NFL’s most dynamic offenses.

    Martin brings a long and diverse coaching résumé. He has NFL experience with the Ravens, high-level college stops at USC and Tennessee, and a background as an offensive coordinator and passing-game designer. At USC, he served as offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, helping develop explosive passing attacks, while at Tennessee he worked as assistant head coach and receivers coach before making the jump back to the NFL.

    Detroit’s interest in Martin signals a continued focus on pairing Jared Goff with a quarterback-centric play caller who can build on the Lions’ recent offensive success while adding new wrinkles to the system.

    With multiple candidates in the mix, Martin now becomes one of the more experienced and well-rounded options to potentially take over play-calling duties in Detroit.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Sam LaPorta Opens Up: The Real Reason His 2025 Season Suddenly Ended

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    Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta met with reporters as the team wrapped up postseason media availability, and for the first time, he opened up about the back injury that cut his 2025 season short, and why surgery ultimately became unavoidable.

    LaPorta revealed that the injury actually dates back to Detroit’s matchup against the Washington Commanders, when a series of hits finally caught up to him.

    “There were some accumulated falls and hits that I took in the weeks leading up to that game… and then of course, it happened in the Commanders game. I fully herniated the disc,” he said as quoted by Lions OnSI.

    At first, LaPorta believed he might only miss a couple of weeks. But as the pain lingered — and worsened — his mindset shifted from hopeful to realistic. Instead of returning, the former second-round pick and the Lions medical staff agreed surgery was the safest path, especially given how early he is in his career.

    “I was gimpy, walking around like an 80-year-old man… Backs aren’t anything to mess with, and I want to have a long, healthy career,” LaPorta said.

    Before the injury, LaPorta was once again one of Detroit’s most reliable offensive weapons. Through nine games in 2025, the Pro Bowl tight end recorded 49 receptions for 480 yards and 3 touchdowns, pushing his three-year totals to 252 catches, 2,104 yards, and 20 touchdowns, incredible production for such a young player.

    Now six weeks removed from surgery, LaPorta says he’s entering the next stage of rehab and feeling optimistic about his timeline.

    Dan Campbell has already hinted that the goal is to have LaPorta back for OTAs, and the tight end echoed that — with one important caveat.

    “Yeah, that is the plan… Hopefully by OTAs I am up running around. But I really got to get this back right before I’m out there taking those hits.”

    The time away from the field has been unfamiliar territory. LaPorta admitted he’s barely missed time at any level of his sports career, making this stretch especially tough to process.

    “To have only played nine games this season, I was clearly disappointed. It was hard to sit on the couch and watch my teammates play without me.”

    Still, don’t expect LaPorta to change who he is as a player. The Lions star said he isn’t planning to alter his physical, aggressive style of football, because that edge is part of what makes him who he is.

    “You just have to assume you’ll make it through the game healthy… Freak accidents happen. You train and prepare, and sometimes things just happen.”

    If rehab stays on track, LaPorta should be back in the mix for Detroit’s 2026 season, and given what he’s already proven in just three years, the Lions will be thrilled to have No. 87 back in the huddle.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Minnesota Vikings home and away opponents for 2026 regular season released

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    The Minnesota Vikings now know the teams they’ll be playing during the 2026 regular season.

    The National Football League announced each team’s complete list of opponents on Monday, one day after the Vikings defeated the Green Bay Packers 16-3. Minnesota finished the 2025 season third in the NFC North with a 9-8 record.

    The Vikings will battle all teams from the AFC East and NFC South, the Indianapolis Colts, Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers, along with their six divisional games against the NFC North. 

    Here’s a look at the team’s home and road opponents.

    Home opponents:

    • Chicago Bears
    • Detroit Lions
    • Green Bay Packers
    • Atlanta Falcons
    • Carolina Panthers
    • Buffalo Bills
    • Miami Dolphins
    • Washington Commanders
    • Indianapolis Colts

    Road opponents:

    • Chicago Bears
    • Detroit Lions
    • Green Bay Packers
    • New Orleans Saints
    • Tampa Bay Buccaneers
    • New England Patriots
    • New York Jets
    • San Francisco 49ers

    The team’s full schedule, including playing dates and times, will be released in the spring, the NFL said. 

    Next season will mark Kevin O’Connell’s fifth as head coach for the Vikings. He’s compiled a 43-25 record in 68 games with the team.

    Minnesota will have the 18th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which is scheduled to take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. The Vikings said they’ve selected from that spot three times in franchise history, selecting defensive back Dewayne Washington in 1994, defensive end Erasmus James in 2005 and center Garrett Bradbury in 2019.

    NOTE: The attached video first aired on Dec. 18, 2025.

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    Nick Lentz

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  • Chicago Bears lose to Lions but secure NFC No. 2 seed with Eagles’ loss, hosting Packers in playoffs

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    CHICAGO — Jared Goff led five scoring drives, Jake Bates kicked a 42-yard field goal as time expired and the Detroit Lions regrouped to beat the NFC North champion Chicago Bears 19-16 on Sunday after blowing a 16-point lead in the fourth quarter.

    The Bears (11-6) stumbled into the playoffs with back-to-back losses, though they secured the No. 2 seed in the NFC with Washington beating Philadelphia. Chicago will host Green Bay in a wild-card game next week, on Saturday night on Prime Video, and would have home-field advantage in the divisional round if it beats the Packers.

    ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

    Caleb Williams set the franchise’s single-season passing record and threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes as the Bears wiped out a 16-0 deficit.

    The Lions (9-8) ended a disappointing season on a winning note when Bates nailed a 42-yarder. A 26-yard pass from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown helped set up the field goal, and Detroit came out on top after losing three in a row.

    Goff shook off his worst game of the season by throwing for 331 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The four-time Pro Bowler completed 27 of 42 passes after setting season highs with two interceptions and three fumbles and matched one by getting sacked five times last week at Minnesota.

    St. Brown had 139 yards on 11 receptions. Gibbs ran for 80 yards and had a touchdown catch. Avonte Maddox intercepted Williams in the end zone in the third quarter, and the Lions closed a season that began with Super Bowl hopes on a winning note.

    Williams threw for 212 yards, giving him 3,942 this season to surpass Erik Kramer’s franchise mark of 3,838 in 1995. Chicago remains the only team without a 4,000-yard passer.

    Colston Loveland caught 10 passes for 91 yards and a touchdown. Kevin Byard had his league-leading seventh interception.

    The Bears trailed 16-0 in the opening minute of the fourth quarter when Williams connected with Jahdae Walker for a 25-yard touchdown and broke Kramer’s record. A 2-point conversion run by Kyle Monangai cut it to 16-8.

    After the Lions punted, Chicago went 88 yards for a touchdown, with Williams finding Colston Loveland in the end zone from the 1. A lunging Cole Kmet then hauled in the 2-point conversion pass in a crowd, tying it at 16 and whipping the crowd into a frenzy.

    The Lions then had the ball at the Chicago 35 when Goff attempted to zip a pass to St. Brown. The Bears’ Jaquan Brisker tipped the ball and Byard picked it off at the 5.

    Injuries

    Lions: WR Tom Kennedy (rib) was hurt returning a punt in the third quarter.

    Bears: The Bears held out LT Ozzy Trapilo (knee/quad) after he was limited in practice during the week. … LB Ty Summers (foot) left after he was injured on the opening kickoff.

    Up next

    Lions: Start the offseason.

    Bears: Host Green Bay in a wild-card game Saturday night.

    Copyright © 2026 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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    AP

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  • Insane Scenario that Results in Detroit Lions Landing No. 12 Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

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    The Detroit Lions don’t control their draft fate heading into Week 18, but there is a wild, microscopic-odds scenario in which they actually climb all the way up to the No. 12 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. And when we say microscopic, we mean it: the New York Times model gives it less than a 1% chance of happening.

    Still… it can happen. So let’s walk through the madness.

    Step 1 — The Lions Have to Lose

    Detroit must drop its regular-season finale:

    • Lions at Bears — Sunday, 1 p.m. ET — FOX

    That’s the starting point. But things get a whole lot crazier from here.

    Step 2 — These Teams Need to Win

    Three other games must break Detroit’s way:

    • Buccaneers (7-9) BEAT Panthers (8-8) — Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET — ABC/ESPN
    • Cowboys (7-8-1) BEAT Giants (3-13) — Sunday, 1 p.m. ET — FOX
    • Falcons (7-9) BEAT (6-10) — Sunday, 1 p.m. ET — FOX

    Detroit also needs to finish with a weaker strength of schedule than Atlanta, which requires even more help.

    Step 3 — The Strength-of-Schedule Tiebreaker Chaos

    To win the SOS tiebreaker over the Falcons, the Lions need at least four of the following outcomes (per Tankathon’s rooting guide):

    • Colts (8-8) BEAT Texans (11-5) — Sunday, 1 p.m. ET — CBS
    • Vikings (8-8) BEAT Packers (9-6-1) — Sunday, 1 p.m. ET — CBS
    • Commanders (4-12) BEAT Eagles (11-5) — Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET — CBS
    • Raiders (2-14) BEAT Chiefs (6-10) — Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET — CBS
    • Cardinals (3-13) BEAT Rams (11-5) — Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET — FOX

    Hit those combinations — and somehow, someway — the Lions slide into the No. 12 slot.

    Miss even one? The dream evaporates.

    What’s the Worst-Case and Best-Case Outcome?

    According to current projections:

    • Highest realistic pick: No. 13 (most likely scenario)
    • Lowest possible pick: No. 18 (least likely scenario)

    Detroit is most commonly projected somewhere in the 13–16 range, but No. 12 remains the absolute chaos outcome.

    Bottom Line

    Will this actually happen? Almost certainly not.
    But it’s the NFL… and weird things happen in Week 18 every single year.

    So if you’re scoreboard-watching on Sunday — now you know exactly what to root for!

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Latest Forecast Shows Detroit Lions’ Most Likely Draft Slot

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    The Detroit Lions may be out of the playoff hunt, but Week 18 still matters, especially when it comes to where they’ll land in the 2026 NFL Draft order. Instead of scoreboard watching for postseason positioning, Lions fans are now tracking draft projections, and the latest outlook paints a pretty clear picture.

    According to current probability models from the New York Times, Detroit is most likely to land somewhere between picks No. 13 and No. 17, with only slim odds of finishing much higher or lower.

    Most Likely Landing Spots

    The numbers suggest the Lions are sitting right in the middle of the first round. Here’s how the probabilities shake out entering Week 18:

    • No. 13 pick — 23% chance
    • No. 14 pick — 25% chance
    • No. 15 pick — 10% chance
    • No. 16 pick — 19% chance
    • No. 17 pick — 18% chance
    • No. 18 pick — 4% chance

    Anything outside that range is extremely unlikely. Detroit has less than a 1% chance of landing picks No. 11 or No. 12, and zero meaningful path to a top-10 selection.

    In short, the Lions are almost locked into that middle-round sweet spot.

    Highest and Lowest Possible Outcomes

    The projections narrow the window even further:

    • Highest possible pick: No. 13 — 23% probability
    • Lowest possible pick: No. 18 — 4% probability

    So there’s upside to moving slightly higher with the right combination of results…but there’s also a small risk of sliding a couple of spots depending on how Week 18 breaks.

    What This Means for Detroit’s Offseason Strategy

    Picking in the middle of Round 1 can actually be a win for a team like Detroit:

    • It keeps them in range of impact defensive starters or trench upgrades
    • It opens flexibility to trade up or trade back
    • It allows Brad Holmes and the front office to target value rather than desperation

    This is the type of draft slot where playoff-caliber rosters add the missing piece, not start over.

    And if the Lions’ recent draft track record tells us anything, it’s that they know how to find talent no matter where they pick on the board.

    Bottom Line

    Week 18 may not decide playoff fate this year…

    …but it will help determine where Detroit begins shaping its 2026 roster.

    Right now, all signs point to the Lions landing around pick 13–16, and that’s a range where difference-makers are absolutely still available.

    The games may be ending, but the real building season is just getting started.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • A Week 18 With No Stakes – Philadelphia Sports Nation

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    Scheduling 16 Division matchups for the final week of the regular season continues to fight the league. With only TWO of the fourteen playoff positions up for grabs which will be decided between the Ravens/Steelers Sunday night game as well as Panthers/Buccaneers (with some help from Atlanta) Sunday afternoon.

    The Eagles will come into Sunday almost locked into the 3 Seed, but with a little bit of scoreboard help happening at the same time they play Washington could see them leap into the 2 Seed. A Lions win over the Bears would give the Eagles a need to compete against the Commanders, a team out for revenge from just two weeks ago.

    A Vengeful Rematch 

    The decision to go for 2 points, putting the Eagles up 19 points late into the 4th quarter was the right decision. The Eagles had already missed two field goals, taking 6 points off the board of what ended as a 29-18 game. 

    The ever so clueless Dan Quinn, who hasn’t learned from his time in Atlanta. Part of the comical 28-3 Falcons Super Bowl loss. Or multiple years as the Cowboys defensive coordinator, giving up 48 points to a 7th seed Packers team in his last game on the sideline for “Americas team.” 

    Upset over the Eagles decision to go for 2, Quinn stated “If that’s how they want to get down, we’ll see them again in two weeks.” Feels very threatening for a Week 18 division opponent matchup. Which leads to the question.

    Did Dan Quinn forget that the Eagles clinched the NFC East title with their Week 16 victory at Northwest Stadium?

    The Commanders season was realistically over by their Bye Week(if not earlier) Sitting at 3-8, losing their franchise QB for weeks at a time, rushing him back from numerous injuries just to be sidelined again feels like something a desperate team would do. 

    Add in injuries to Tyler Biadasz, Marcus Mariota, Laremy Tunsil, Sam Cosmi, Trey Amos, amongst plenty of players like Zach Ertz, Marshon Lattimore and Austin Ekeler. The #1 thing the Commanders should be playing for on Sunday is draft position. 

    7th overall is a great place to be for a team that was only 22 points from punching their ticket to a Super Bowl less than 12 months ago. 

    If 17th year Josh Johnson is able to lead the Commanders to a nothingburger victory against Tanner McKee and what we should expect to be most of the Eagles backup & reserve players. Then I guess we can give Dan Quinn & Co. Their flowers of “only beating an Eagles backup QB” 2 years running.  

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    Tyler L’Heureux

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  • Week 18: Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears Point Spread Revealed

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    The regular season wraps up this Sunday, and we finally have the opening betting line for the Detroit Lions’ Week 18 showdown against the Chicago Bears. According to the early odds from DraftKings, the Bears will enter the matchup as 3-point favorites at home, with the over/under set at 50.5 total points.

    That means oddsmakers see this one as a competitive matchup, but with Chicago getting the slight edge thanks to home-field advantage.

    Lions Enter Finale With Pride — and Jobs — on the Line

    Even though Detroit has already been eliminated from playoff contention, Dan Campbell made it clear this week that the Lions aren’t treating Sunday like a throwaway game.

    This matchup still matters, for culture, for evaluation, and for several players fighting for future roster spots. Jared Goff echoed that mindset, saying he wants to play because “that’s what leaders do, we play on Sundays.”

    Expect Detroit to compete, even with the line favoring Chicago.

    Chicago Playing Spoiler — and Looking Ahead

    The Bears have shown signs of life late in the season, which helps explain why they’re favored here. The oddsmakers clearly believe Chicago’s defense and rushing attack can control tempo, especially at home, but the Lions’ offense still has the firepower to turn this into a shootout.

    With the total sitting at 50.5, sportsbooks seem to expect points.

    Early Betting Takeaways

    • Spread: Bears -3 vs. Lions
    • Total: 50.5
    • Moneyline: Lions +130 | Bears -155

    In simple terms: bookmakers think this one could go either way, but Chicago gets the nod in what feels like a coin-flip divisional matchup.

    Bottom Line

    Week 18 may not decide playoff destiny for Detroit, but it still carries meaning. The Lions want to finish the season with fight, and Vegas expects a competitive, high-scoring battle to close things out.

    We’ll keep you posted with injury updates, lineup notes, and betting movement as kickoff approaches.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears Week 18 Game Time Announced

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    The NFL has finally locked in kickoff times for the regular-season finale, and now we know when the Detroit Lions will take the field one last time in 2025.

    Following the Chicago Bears’ Week 17 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the league officially announced that Lions vs. Bears in Week 18 will kick off at 4:25 p.m. ET next Sunday on FOX.

    The matchup was one of several games the NFL held in a flexible scheduling window while playoff scenarios and seeding shook themselves out. With Chicago falling to San Francisco, the league slotted the NFC North showdown into the late-afternoon broadcast window.

    For Detroit, Week 18 is about pride, evaluation, and finishing the season the right way. For Chicago, the game could still play into postseason storylines depending on how the rest of the NFC picture settles.

    Either way, Lions-Bears at 4:25 on FOX feels fitting. Two physical teams, one rivalry, and one final chance to close the regular season with a statement.

    Now the countdown to kickoff begins.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Should Break Bank for Perennial Pro Bowl Center

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    When Frank Ragnow announced his retirement before the 2025 season, I’ll be honest, my stomach dropped. Ragnow wasn’t just another offensive lineman. He was the heartbeat of the trenches, the guy who made everything up front feel stable, calm, and elite. You don’t just replace a player like that. You survive losing him, and then you hope you eventually rebuild.

    Fast-forward to the present, and the Lions never really recovered.

    With Graham Glasgow sliding over to center, Detroit’s offensive line looked like a shell of its former self in 2025. Now, that’s not a “blame Glasgow for everything” comment, far from it. The Lions got thin at guard after losing Kevin Zeitler in free agency and Christian Mahogany to injury, and that hurt just as much. But if we’re being honest here, elite offensive lines are built from the inside out, and the Lions went from having one of the best centers in football…to one of the worst.

    According to Pro Football Focus, Glasgow ranked 34th out of 40 qualifying centers with a 57.4 grade. That’s not just a drop-off. That’s a cliff.

    And if the Lions truly want Jared Goff to succeed, if they truly want to be a physically dominant football team again, they cannot afford to ignore the problem any longer.

    They need to fix center.

    And IF the opportunity presents itself?

    They should break the bank for Tyler Linderbaum.

    Why Linderbaum Should Be Priority No. 1

    Tyler Linderbaum is everything Detroit needs right now:

    • Smart
    • Physical
    • Athletic
    • Nasty in the run game
    • Rock-solid in protection

    He’s a three-time Pro Bowler at just 25 years old, and he’s already established himself as one of the best young interior linemen in football. Players like this simply do not hit the open market very often.

    And yet…he might.

    The Ravens declined his fifth-year option due to a quirky salary-classification issue — the number was treated as a general offensive lineman figure rather than a center-specific one, which ballooned the projected cost to $23.4 million in 2026. Baltimore also now faces a similar dilemma with the franchise tag, which is grouped as one position category instead of broken out by role.

    Translation: keeping Linderbaum won’t be cheap for them.

    And that’s exactly why the Lions should be lurking.

    Yes, Baltimore is one of the smartest front offices in football. Yes, there’s a good chance they find a way to keep him long-term, because teams don’t just let cornerstone centers walk.

    But if, for any reason, negotiations stall?

    If the tag situation gets messy?

    If Linderbaum even briefly touches the open market?

    Brad Holmes needs to move fast.

    No hesitation. No “value shopping.” No waiting for the second wave of free agency.

    You pay the man.

    Because centers like Ragnow — like Linderbaum — are team-defining.

    Why Spending Big Makes Sense — Even With a Tight Cap

    The Lions are not exactly swimming in cap space. We know that.

    Big-money extensions for Kerby Joseph, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jared Goff, Aidan Hutchinson and Jameson Williams have added up. Detroit will have to maneuver, restructure, and sacrifice somewhere.

    But if you’re going to invest heavily anywhere?

    You invest in the offensive line.

    Especially when your quarterback is a timing-and-rhythm passer who thrives behind a clean pocket.

    Especially when your offensive identity is supposed to be physical, disciplined, and balanced.

    Especially when your offense collapsed the instant its foundation cracked.

    Linderbaum immediately:

    • Upgrades protection
    • Re-establishes the run game
    • Restores stability at the line of scrimmage
    • Extends Goff’s effectiveness window

    That’s not a luxury signing.

    That’s a franchise-course-correcting signing.

    The Bottom Line

    Maybe the Ravens lock him up and this never becomes an option.

    But if Tyler Linderbaum becomes available, even for a second, the Detroit Lions should treat him like what he is:

    A foundational piece capable of jump-starting the offensive line and setting the tone for 2026 and beyond.

    If the Lions truly want to get back to being the team they were up front?

    They shouldn’t just pursue Linderbaum.

    They should be willing to pay whatever it takes.

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    Don Drysdale

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