The Detroit Lions are about to add another chapter to their evolving look. Beginning in 2026, the team will roll out a brand-new uniform as part of the NFL’s Rivalries program in partnership with Nike. For a franchise steeped in tradition but energized by recent success, this next step in their identity feels perfectly timed.
What Is the Rivalries Program?
The Rivalries program is the NFL’s latest uniform initiative, launched this season with the AFC East and NFC West. The plan is simple: every team in the league will eventually debut a new design over the next four years, with the NFC North and AFC South scheduled for 2026.
Each team’s Rivalries uniform will be worn first in a divisional matchup, then incorporated into the club’s regular rotation for three more years. The goal, according to the league, is to combine modern aesthetics with nods to each city’s football heritage, a blend of history and innovation.
Detroit Lions New Uniform Already in the Works
Lions team president Rod Wood confirmed on 97.1 The Ticket that Detroit’s Rivalries uniform has already gone through several design phases.
“The first eight teams are going to be rolled out next week, so you’ll get a look at what the league is thinking about,” Wood said as quoted by Lions OnSI. “And we have an idea of what ours is going to look like. We’ve seen a couple iterations of it and I would say that it’s consistent with us but a little bit of a modern twist to it. I think the fans will like it.”
That little tease, consistent with us but with a modern twist, suggests Detroit won’t stray far from its iconic Honolulu blue identity but will still push boundaries with something fresh.
Building on the 2024 Refresh
The announcement comes just two years after the Lions introduced their revamped jerseys in 2024, which included the debut of a sleek black alternate that quickly became a fan favorite. That look will remain in rotation, alongside the incoming Rivalries uniform, giving Detroit fans multiple bold choices to rep on Sundays.
The Bottom Line
The Lions have always leaned on tradition, silver helmets, Honolulu blue, and a timeless feel. But now, under the NFL’s Rivalries program, Detroit gets to blend that history with a modern design built for a new era.
The Rivalries uniform won’t hit the field until 2026, but if Rod Wood’s comments are any indication, Lions fans can expect a look that feels true to Detroit’s roots, with just enough edge to stand out.