The Detroit Lions entered the 2025 season carrying Super Bowl expectations after establishing themselves among the NFL’s elite. This expectation had come after they had made the Conference Championships in 2023 and then clinched the first seed in 2024. However, their campaign ended as a disaster after Detroit finished 4th in the NFC North.

The lingering disappointment is exactly why quarterback Jared Goff believes the Lions are entering 2026 with a renewed sense of urgency. Goff, during this week’s organized team activities, addressed their frustration from last season. 

“We were a fourth-place team last year, and we need to come out and play a lot better this year,” said Goff. “You get what you deserve to some extent, whether that’s good or bad. Our record was middle of the pack, but in our division, it was fourth place. That’s what happens.” 

The comments reflected a level of accountability that has become common throughout Detroit’s locker room under head coach Dan Campbell.

Goff is now entering his 11th NFL season and has experienced both championship contention and rebuilding years. The Lions possess a roster that is one of the best in Goff’s career so far.  Key players such as Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch are also expected to make their returns sometime this season. 

With key players returning and some good offseason moves to bolster their offensive line, expectations are once again high for the Lions. The Lions also made one big change in bringing in Drew Petzig as the new offensive coordinator. How does Goff feel about his new offensive coordinator?

Goff Shares His Thoughts On Drew Petzig

Goff is now going to be working under his 4th offensive coordinator since joining the Lions in 2021. Petzig is joining the Lions after a stint with the Cardinals, which had its ups and downs. However, he seems to be a perfect fit for the Lions with his run-heavy scheme. 

Despite it being in the early stages, Goff has high praise for his new coach. 

“It’s been awesome. He’s been great to work with, and he’s got a lot of his own ideas. But he’s also very open to listening to everything we (players) want to do.”

Goff further described a healthy environment fostered by clear communication between the roster and the new coaching staff.

“It’s been a fun synergy between him and I and our whole offensive staff. He really puts the players first, and it’s awesome,” said Goff on Petzig. 

Petzig, during the offseason, mentioned how getting to work with a veteran like Goff was one of the main reasons for him joining the Lions.

With a very good roster this season, the Lions will be expected to bounce back and make the playoffs again. 

Do you think the Lions will reach the playoffs and maybe make a run for the Super Bowl? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi