The Detroit Lions may not be competing in the World Cup, but they’re making plenty of noise in the soccer world.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped up in North America, Fanatics unveiled its latest collection of NFL soccer-inspired crossover jerseys, blending professional football with the style and tradition of the world’s most popular sport. Among all 32 designs, the Lions landed near the top of the list.
According to The Athletic, Detroit’s crossover jersey ranked No. 7 overall, earning praise for its clean design and subtle nod to one of soccer’s most iconic national teams.
Inspired by Italy’s Classic Look
The Lions’ jersey features an all-blue design highlighted by a stylish collar and sleeve accents inspired by Italy’s legendary 1994 national team kit.
The Athletic praised the design, writing:
“The details in the collars and sleeve are great, clearly inspired by Italy’s 1994 shirt, and the one-tone shade of blue works well.”
While it just missed the publication’s top five, the reviewer still viewed it as one of the strongest jerseys in the entire collection.
“It may be slightly too one dimensional to crack the top five, but it’s definitely worthy of a place in the top 10.”
A Jersey Designed for Two Worlds
The collection was created by Fanatics to blend NFL team identities with global football culture, resulting in jerseys that feel equally at home inside Ford Field or at a World Cup match.
The crossover jerseys debuted at Fanatics Fest in New York City on July 16 before becoming available online the following day. Last year’s inaugural collection quickly sold out, making this year’s release one of the most anticipated merchandise drops of the offseason.
Lions Fans Have Another Winner
Detroit has become known for winning on the field, but now the Lions are getting recognition for their style as well.
With a sleek blue color scheme, subtle soccer influences, and a design that pays tribute to one of international football’s most memorable kits, the Lions’ crossover jersey has already become one of the collection’s biggest standouts.
If the early reviews are any indication, Lions fans may want to act quickly before these jerseys disappear just like last year’s release.
Drafted with AI assistance, edited and fact-checked by DSN staff.
