What happened: The 2026 NFL season presents an opportunity for the Detroit Lions to win the Super Bowl and the Dallas Cowboys to reach the conference title game. Both franchises are navigating historically significant streaks without a championship appearance.

Why it matters: Detroit has never captured a Lombardi Trophy in the Super Bowl era. The two organizations enter the upcoming campaign with their Super Bowl windows in focus and pressure to advance.

What to watch: Training camps open later this month as the teams begin preparations for the upcoming campaign.