Detroit has had quite a few legends over the years. Among them is former wide receiver Calvin Johnson, who delivered a powerful message centered around quarterback Jared Goff.

The Lions are entering the 2026 season with expectations of bouncing back from missing the playoffs last year. Johnson believes that to continue being an amazing offensive unit, Detroit’s offensive line must protect Goff.

“I think the biggest key is really just to keep Goff upright,” Johnson told NFL Network's Stacey Dales. "We've been able to address that in the draft, bringing in Miller from Clemson, big fella...We need him to be dialed in. So he can get out there and protect 16."

What Johnson said has proven to be right so far. Goff arrived in 2021 as part of a trade with the Rams that saw Matthew Stafford go the other way. Coach Dan Campbell and Goff have since reached the NFC Championship in 2023 and clinched the first seed in 2024.

Despite last season being a disappointment, Goff was still one of the best quarterbacks in the league.

With a completion rate of 68%, he threw for 4,564 yards with 34 touchdowns, trailing only Stafford. With Goff turning 32 this year, the QB needs to be protected at all costs.

That said, following the schedule for the 2026 season, the Lions get a favorable start.

Detroit Targets Strong Opening Stretch Ahead of Early Bye

Jared Goff and company open the regular season to play against the New Orleans Saints at home. The team plays five straight games before their early bye in week 6.

"Detroit will probably be favored in four of their first five games with Buffalo likely being the only outlier," Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com reported May 19.

"It's a new year with new rosters, and we've seen in 20 of the last 23 years a team go from last to first in their division, but this stretch could give Detroit an opportunity to get off to a good start."

Among their first five opponents, only the Buffalo Bills are a team of playoff caliber. So, taking advantage of their easy start could benefit Detroit this season.

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore