What happened: SB Nation issued 61 predictions for the 2026 NFL season, four of them tied to the Lions, according to Jarrett Bailey's roundup cited by Pride of Detroit. The headline scenario has Arizona trading safety Budda Baker to Detroit, with additional predictions covering a two-game stretch of 40-plus points, a Week 2 loss at Buffalo's new stadium and an NFC North title. In the point-total scenario, Jahmyr Gibbs scores three touchdowns and Jared Goff throws for 303 yards and four scores in a 41-17 win over Carolina, followed by a 40-9 win over Arizona built on seven catches for 88 yards and two touchdowns from Isaac Teslaa.

Why it matters: The Baker prediction hinges on Detroit's safety depth: Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph are both working back from injury, and Bailey's own writeup calls the trade unlikely since Joseph's return is projected around the deadline. Baker carries $14.4 million in 2026 and more than $16 million in 2027, a price tag that assumes Arizona is selling into a rebuild. The division-title prediction leans on new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, with Detroit already installed as NFC North favorites.

What to watch: Watch Branch and Joseph's practice status as camp opens, and whether Arizona signals a sell-off before the trade deadline.