As the Detroit Lions gear up for their preseason finale against the Indianapolis Colts on August 29, 2026, the battle for the backup quarterback role has become one of the most compelling storylines of the offseason. According to the latest SB Nation Reacts survey, sponsored by FanDuel Sportsbook and analyzed by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, a clear majority of Lions fans believe undrafted rookie Luke Altmyer has overtaken veteran Josh Dobbs as the favorite for the QB2 job.
A Shift in Philosophy?
The Lions have historically leaned on experienced veterans to back up starter Jared Goff, but head coach Dan Campbell has indicated that the team is open to a change. "You would like that because those guys have played; there are real reps," Campbell said, referencing the value of a seasoned backup. "But that's not the end-all, be-all, either. If you think there's somebody to work with here and that he's shown enough progress and he's only going to get better, then we don't close our eyes to that either."
Altmyer, who stepped into the QB2 role following Teddy Bridgewater's retirement, has impressed during training camp and preseason action. His mobility, arm talent, and poise have drawn comparisons to a modern NFL quarterback, and fans have taken notice. One fan, Cmonman14, voiced a common sentiment on The Feed: "I hope it's Altmyer, he will have to clear waivers to end up on practice squad, and another team might pluck him. I'm impressed with him so far, and imo he has a much higher ceiling than Dobbs."
What the Fans Are Saying
The poll results reflect a growing belief that Altmyer's upside outweighs Dobbs' experience. TomRem. added, "I would much rather see Altmeyer backup Goff, even though Dobbs might be better in Goff's ear to tell him what he sees from the sideline." Another fan, LifetimecubsandLionsfan, highlighted Altmyer's intangibles: "He has a ton of heart and toughness. And grit. He worked his ass off in Champaign and got progressively better while not giving up who he is as a QB."
"We don't need some wild throws, whatever. Be able to run the offense, be efficient, make smart decisions, even if that means that you're punting the ball. That'll be the most important thing." — Dan Campbell on what Altmyer must show against the Colts
While the fan base largely supports Altmyer, there are still voices advocating for Dobbs, who was signed on August 9 after going unsigned all summer. One commenter, FeelTheBern2020, questioned Dobbs' value: "No team signed him all summer, and it's not like he's proving everyone wrong with his preseason play. Barring an exceptional performance this weekend, I'd be shocked if another team even goes after him for their practice squad, let alone 53."
Campbell has made it clear that consistency and smart decision-making will be the deciding factors. "Just play good, smart football," he said. "We don't need some wild throws, whatever. Be able to run the offense, be efficient, make smart decisions, even if that means that you're punting the ball."
As the Lions prepare for the regular season, with odds currently at +1700 to win the Super Bowl and +155 to win the NFC North, the QB2 decision could have ripple effects. If Altmyer secures the job, it signals a forward-thinking approach by Detroit's coaching staff, one that prioritizes development over comfort. The preseason finale against the Colts will be Altmyer's final audition, and according to Vulius Sports, all eyes will be on the young signal-caller to see if he can deliver the poise Campbell demands.
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