The Detroit Lions have reached a point where ranking the best players on the roster is no easy task.
Brad Holmes has assembled one of the NFL’s deepest and most talented teams, with stars spread across every position group. Several players who didn’t even crack this list would likely be among the top players on many other rosters around the league.
Here’s my ranking of the Top 10 players on the 2026 Detroit Lions, counting down from No. 10 to No. 1.
No. 10: Sam LaPorta, Tight End
A healthy Sam LaPorta immediately changes the complexion of Detroit’s offense.
Last season was cut short after LaPorta underwent a microdiscectomy to repair a fully herniated disc in his back, limiting him to just nine games. Even so, he still hauled in 40 receptions for 489 yards and three touchdowns.
The good news for the Lions is that LaPorta has reportedly been fully cleared to participate in training camp, eliminating any concerns about his availability heading into the season.
When healthy, he’s one of the NFL’s premier tight ends and one of Jared Goff’s most trusted weapons.
No. 9: Jameson Williams, Wide Receiver
Jameson Williams has evolved into one of the most dangerous big-play receivers in football.
His elite speed changes the way defenses line up every single week, but what has impressed the most is how complete his game has become. He’s no longer just a deep threat. Williams has developed into a polished receiver capable of winning at every level of the field.
Don’t be surprised if 2026 ends up being the best season of his career.
No. 8: Brian Branch, Defensive Back
If this list were based strictly on talent, Brian Branch would probably rank even higher.
The only reason he checks in at No. 8 is because of health.
Branch is returning from a torn Achilles suffered late last season, and all indications are that the injury will likely keep him sidelined until late October at the earliest. That’s a significant loss for one of the NFL’s most versatile defenders.
When he eventually returns, expect him to immediately elevate Detroit’s defense once again.
No. 7: Kerby Joseph, Safety
Kerby Joseph has developed into one of the league’s premier free safeties.
However, like Branch, health creates some uncertainty entering the season.
Joseph spent much of the 2025 campaign sidelined with a knee injury, and while the Lions are optimistic about his recovery, they will undoubtedly be monitoring him closely throughout training camp.
If Joseph returns to full strength, his ball-hawking ability and elite instincts make him one of the biggest difference-makers in Detroit’s secondary.
No. 6: Jack Campbell, Linebacker
Jack Campbell has become the unquestioned leader of Detroit’s defense.
His combination of size, athleticism, football intelligence, and physicality allows him to impact every phase of the game. Whether he’s stopping the run, dropping into coverage, or getting teammates lined up before the snap, Campbell has become everything the Lions envisioned when they selected him in the first round.
His leadership continues to grow with every season.
No. 5: Jared Goff, Quarterback
There may not be a more underrated quarterback in the NFL.
Jared Goff has helped transform the Lions from a rebuilding franchise into a legitimate Super Bowl contender. His command of the offense, accuracy, and decision-making allow Detroit’s playmakers to thrive.
While Goff may never receive the same national attention as some of the league’s flashier quarterbacks, the Lions know exactly how valuable he is.
No. 4: Aidan Hutchinson, Edge Rusher
Everything starts with Aidan Hutchinson.
When healthy, he’s one of the NFL’s most disruptive pass rushers and the centerpiece of Detroit’s defense. His relentless effort, leadership, and ability to wreck offensive game plans make him one of the most valuable defensive players in football.
The Lions expect Hutchinson to once again be firmly in the Defensive Player of the Year conversation.
No. 3: Jahmyr Gibbs, Running Back
Few players in the NFL are as explosive as Jahmyr Gibbs.
Every time he touches the football, there’s a legitimate chance he scores. His elite acceleration, receiving ability, and vision make him nearly impossible to defend in space.
Whether he’s taking a handoff, catching a screen pass, or splitting out wide, Gibbs forces defenses into impossible decisions.
No. 2: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Wide Receiver
Consistency separates good players from great ones.
Amon-Ra St. Brown has become the definition of greatness.
He’s among the league’s best route runners, possesses arguably the strongest hands in football, blocks with the intensity of a tight end, and sets the standard for work ethic inside the Lions’ locker room.
It’s no surprise Jared Goff recently called him the best wide receiver in the NFL.
No. 1: Penei Sewell, Offensive Tackle
There was never another choice.
Penei Sewell isn’t just the best player on the Detroit Lions.
He’s arguably the best offensive tackle in football.
Whether protecting Jared Goff or paving the way for Jahmyr Gibbs, Sewell dominates every opponent he faces. His athleticism is remarkable, his toughness is unmatched, and his leadership has become a cornerstone of Detroit’s culture.
The Lions have built their roster around elite players in the trenches, and nobody represents that philosophy better than Sewell.
He’s the best player on one of the NFL’s best teams.
Bottom Line
The fact that players like Alim McNeill and D.J. Reed, and several others, failed to crack this list says everything about the talent Brad Holmes has assembled.
If the Lions can overcome the early-season injuries to players like Brian Branch and ensure Kerby Joseph returns to full strength, this roster has every piece necessary to compete for the first Super Bowl championship in franchise history.
