By Moses Joshua 
Detroit Misses a Low-Risk, High-Reward Opportunity at QB2
The Detroit Lions enter the 2026 offseason with a clear starting quarterback in Jared Goff, but questions around the backup role are already stirring concern. While backup QB might not carry the glamour of pass rusher or offensive line upgrades, it’s a position that could define the team’s depth and flexibility next season.
Kyle Allen’s Status Leaves a Hole
This past season, Kyle Allen secured the QB2 spot, edging out former third-round pick Hendon Hooker in the preseason. In 2025, the Lions didn’t lean on him heavily—Allen attempted just two passes across three games. However, the 29-year-old signal-caller will become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, leaving Detroit with a gap behind Goff.
NFL teams generally prefer to develop a younger backup who can learn under a veteran starter while providing insurance in case of injury. Detroit, however, may have missed a chance to address this need immediately.
Rookie Kyle McCord Snatched by NFC North Rival
Rookie quarterback Kyle McCord spent 2025 on the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad and became a free agent this past Monday. The Lions had an opportunity to bring him in as a developmental QB, but the Green Bay Packers moved first, signing McCord to a reserve/futures deal.
For the Packers, it’s a low-risk, high-reward strategy. McCord can be evaluated in minicamp and training camp without a significant financial commitment, and if he doesn’t pan out, Green Bay can cut ties with minimal fallout. For Detroit, though, missing out on McCord leaves them entering free agency with essentially just one quarterback under contract—Jared Goff.
Developmental Alternatives Still on the Table
McCord’s departure doesn’t mean Detroit is without options. The Lions could explore free-agent quarterbacks, draft prospects, or even revisit the idea of Dorian Thompson-Robinson or CJ Beathard. Yet, McCord presented a chance to acquire a young, Syracuse-trained talent who, despite a rookie preseason showing of 42.9% completions for 191 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, carries potential upside.
Had the Lions signed him, McCord could have developed within Detroit’s system, serving as an insurance QB or practice squad player while learning behind Goff. Now, the organization will have to make quick decisions in free agency or the draft to ensure QB2 doesn’t become a weak link in 2026.
The Clock Is Ticking
Detroit’s backup quarterback situation is far from resolved, and the NFC North is watching closely. With McCord now in Green Bay, Lions fans are left wondering if GM Brad Holmes and the coaching staff will act decisively. Options like Zach Wilson or drafting a QB such as Drew Allar or Cade Klubnik are on the table, but every week without a solution increases the pressure to get this critical roster spot right.
Detroit’s handling of the backup QB role may seem like a small offseason detail, but missing low-cost, developmental players like McCord could reverberate when the games matter most.