Lions president and CEO Rod Wood to retire before 2026 season

Detroit Lions president and chief executive officer Rod Wood will step down from his role ahead of the 2026 NFL season, the team announced. Wood’s planned retirement will mark the end of a tenure that saw significant change for the franchise both on and off the field. The Lions did not immediately disclose the exact timing of his departure within the league calendar or details about a successor, but indicated the transition will be completed before the 2026 campaign begins. Wood, a longtime business executive with close ties to the franchise’s ownership, was brought in to oversee the organization’s business operations and help stabilize the front office structure. Under his leadership, Detroit emphasized improvements in the club’s overall infrastructure, fan experience and organizational alignment between the business and football sides of the operation. The team’s front office, working with ownership, has in recent years focused on building a more cohesive culture, modernizing processes and strengthening long-term planning. Wood’s retirement will open a significant leadership vacancy at the top of the franchise’s executive hierarchy, with the next president expected to play a central role in shaping the Lions’ strategic direction in the years ahead. The club’s leadership transition will come at a time when stability and clear communication between ownership, the front office and the coaching staff remain critical across the league. Team presidents and CEOs typically oversee key areas such as stadium operations, corporate partnerships, community initiatives and overall business strategy, while also serving as a central liaison with league offices. Detroit will now prepare for a change in that role as it plans for future seasons. Additional information on the Lions’ search process, potential interim arrangements or final date for Wood’s retirement had not been publicly outlined at the time of the announcement. The organization is expected to provide further updates as it moves closer to the 2026 season and finalizes its leadership structure for the long term.