The Detroit Lions are hoping 2026 marks a return to championship contention after a disappointing finish last season. According to ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano, one offseason move could ultimately determine whether quarterback Jared Goff dominates in 2026.
Graziano believes the biggest factor isn’t a flashy free-agent signing or blockbuster trade. Instead, it comes down to whether new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing can successfully revitalize Detroit’s offense.
Jared Goff Drew Petzing Jared Goff Drew Petzing
A Difficult 2025 Season for Goff
Last season served as a reminder of just how much continuity matters.
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Following a 15-2 campaign in 2024, the Lions entered 2025 facing major changes on offense. Ben Johnson departed to become the Chicago Bears’ head coach, while Detroit also experienced significant turnover along the offensive line.
The result was an offense that never quite found its rhythm.
While Goff remained productive, he posted his lowest Total QBR since his first season in Detroit before Johnson became offensive coordinator. The Lions finished 9-8 and narrowly missed the playoffs after entering the year with Super Bowl expectations.
Drew Petzing Could Be the Difference
According to Graziano, Detroit’s decision to hire Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator could prove to be the move that gets Goff back on track.
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Petzing arrives after spending time with the Arizona Cardinals and inherits one of the NFL’s most talented offensive rosters. If he can quickly establish an offense that plays to Goff’s strengths, the Lions could once again feature one of football’s most dangerous attacks.
Just as importantly, a smooth transition would allow head coach Dan Campbell to stay out of play-calling duties and focus on leading the team.
Another Big Change Up Front
The offense could also look different along the offensive line.
Graziano noted that Detroit is expected to move All-Pro Penei Sewell from right tackle to left tackle, another significant adjustment that could reshape the protection in front of Goff.
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If Sewell makes the transition successfully, it could help stabilize an offensive line that underwent considerable changes a season ago.
Jared Goff Drew Petzing
The Schedule Could Work in Detroit’s Favor
There is another reason for optimism.
Based on opponents’ combined 2025 records, the Lions are projected to have the sixth-easiest schedule in the NFL entering the 2026 season. That favorable slate could give Detroit an opportunity to regain momentum early while Petzing’s offense continues to develop.
A Critical Season Ahead
Goff remains under contract through the 2028 season, giving the Lions plenty of time to compete for another Super Bowl.
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But after last season’s regression, all eyes will be on how quickly Detroit’s offense adapts under new leadership.
If Petzing can unlock the version of Goff that helped lead the Lions to one of the NFL’s best records just two seasons ago, Detroit could find itself right back among the NFC’s elite.
