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Lions to Win NFC North, Says Former Broncos Player

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, March 17th 2026 at 2:46 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, UNITED STATES

Former Bronco John Franklin Myers Fuels NFC North Debate with Lions Championship Prediction

Detroit, MI - March 17th, 2026 - Former Denver Broncos defensive end and current team analyst, John Franklin Myers, has ignited a firestorm of discussion amongst NFL fans with a bold prediction: the Detroit Lions will win the NFC North in 2026. Myers, known for his insightful football analysis, made the proclamation on social media platform X yesterday, sending ripples throughout the league's online community.

"I'm predicting the Detroit Lions will win the NFC North in 2026," Myers posted. "The Broncos are good, but the Lions have gotten better. Detroit is my pick." The statement, while relatively brief, carries weight coming from a player who recently suited up for the Broncos and provides an insider's perspective on the evolving landscape of the NFC.

The Lions experienced a breakthrough season in 2023, finishing with a 12-5 record and dominating the NFC North. Their playoff run ended in heartbreak, falling to the San Francisco 49ers in a hard-fought NFC Championship Game. The 2023 success, however, has fueled optimism in Detroit, with many analysts already tabbing them as strong contenders for the 2026 Super Bowl.

Myers' prediction acknowledges the progress being made in Denver under the leadership of head coach Sean Payton. The Broncos, finishing at 9-8 in 2023, are undergoing a rebuild, focusing on integrating young talent and establishing a consistent winning culture. However, Myers clearly believes the Lions' trajectory is currently outpacing that of the Broncos, and potentially the entire NFC North.

NFC North Power Rankings - A Deep Dive into the Contenders

Looking at the current makeup of the NFC North, Myers' prediction seems increasingly plausible. The Minnesota Vikings, while historically competitive, are facing questions about their long-term quarterback situation after the retirement of Kirk Cousins in early 2025. Their reliance on a developing rookie QB could hinder their championship aspirations in 2026. The Chicago Bears have made strides in acquiring talent, particularly on the defensive side, but still appear to be a step behind the Lions in terms of overall team depth and experience.

The Green Bay Packers, though consistently competitive, are in a transitional phase following the departure of Aaron Rodgers. While Jordan Love has shown promise, replicating Rodgers' sustained success won't be easy. This leaves the Detroit Lions as the clear frontrunners, having retained their core players and making targeted additions to address key weaknesses.

Detroit's Keys to Success in 2026

Several factors will contribute to the Lions' potential success. Firstly, the continued development of quarterback Jared Goff is crucial. Goff has proven to be a capable starter, but elevating his game to an elite level will be paramount. The Lions' offensive line, already one of the league's best, needs to remain healthy and dominant. Protecting Goff and establishing a strong running game will be vital for controlling the clock and wearing down opposing defenses.

Secondly, the Lions' defense, which showed significant improvement in 2024 and 2025, must maintain that momentum. Investing in pass rushers and bolstering the secondary will be key to disrupting opposing offenses. Thirdly, the coaching staff, led by Dan Campbell, needs to continue fostering a winning culture and maximizing the potential of their players.

Broncos' Response and Development

The Broncos, meanwhile, are focused on their own path to contention. The development of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, drafted first overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, is central to their plans. Coach Payton has repeatedly emphasized the importance of patience with Nix, acknowledging that he will need time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL. Zach Cherry, a rising star on the Denver roster, recently stated his intention to step into a leadership role, signaling a growing confidence within the team.

Russell Wilson, though no longer the Broncos' starter, continues to maintain a competitive spirit, recently asserting he remains "better" than many quarterbacks in the league, a sentiment echoed by some fans but largely dismissed by analysts. The Broncos' success will hinge on Nix's rapid development, combined with the continued growth of young players like Cherry and a solid defensive performance.

John Franklin Myers' prediction is more than just a social media post; it's a testament to the growing strength of the Detroit Lions and a recognition of the challenges facing the Denver Broncos in the competitive NFC North. The 2026 season promises to be a thrilling battle for divisional supremacy, and all eyes will be on Detroit to see if Myers' bold prediction comes to fruition.