When we last checked in on NFL power rankings, the Detroit Lions were firmly a top-10 team, but most analysts had them outside of that top tier of teams. That conversation has drastically changed, however, since the Lions’ deep playoff run. After their NFC Championship appearance—and near win—suddenly the Lions are in the conversation for one of the best teams in football as we head into the 2024 offseason.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the early offseason power rankings provided by several different outlets.
The Athletic: 3 (End of regular season: 4)
Everyone’s favorite underdog had the 49ers on the ropes in the NFC Championship Game, has money to spend ($47 million in cap space) and, shockingly, still has offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who rebuffed the Washington Commanders to stay in Detroit.