Who The Detroit Lions Will Play in The 2026 Season

After facing one of the NFL’s toughest schedules in 2025, Detroit is expected to have a more manageable path in 2026 following its fourth-place finish in the NFC North.

Detroit Lions Faced Tough Schedules in 2024 and 2025

The Detroit Lions’ 2024 season was the best in franchise history, finishing 15–2 and entering the playoffs with high expectations, only to be stunned by a 45–31 first-round loss to the Washington Commanders. The defeat came as a major surprise, as many fans had viewed the season as Detroit’s best chance to make a Super Bowl run.

The 2024 schedule for the Lions was not an easy road even though they only lost in the regular season to Tampa Bay 20-16, and to the Buffalo Bills 48-42. When you finish first in your division, the schedule is even harder the following year.

There is no doubt that Detroit's schedule for 2025 was one of the most difficult in the entire NFL. After many coaching changes and injured players, the Lions finished the regular season with a 9-8 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2022.

Read More: Detroit Lions Lose Alex Anzalone in Free Agency

2025 was ugly for the Lions, but finishing fourth in the division has made for an easier path for the team in 2026.

Who’s on the Lions’ 2026 Schedule?

Nothing comes easy in the NFL, “on any given Sunday” proved true again for a team that’s had its ups and downs. The Lions’ 2025 season was a step back at 9–8, including losses in both games to division rivals Green Bay and Minnesota. While they swept Chicago, the Bears are expected to be tougher in 2026, making the NFC North one of the most challenging divisions they’ll face.

The actual dates and times for the 2026 season have not been announced yet, but below is who the Lions will face at home and on the road:

• Home Games: Chicago Bears (11-6), Green Bay Packers (9-7-1), Minnesota Vikings (9-8), New England Patriots (14-3), New Orleans Saints (6-11), New York Giants (4-13), New York Jets (3-14), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9), and the Tennessee Titans (3-14). The division rivals and the Patriots look to be the toughest teams Detroit will play at home.
• Away Games: Arizona Cardinals (3-14), Atlanta Falcons (8-9), Buffalo Bills (12-5), Carolina Panthers (8-9), Chicago Bears (11-6), Green Bay Packers (9-7-1), Miami Dolphins (7-10), and the Minnesota Vikings (9-8). The division rivals and the Bills will be the toughest games for the Lions when on the road.

Now we know who the Lions will play, lets hope the team stays healthy and head coach Dan Campbell has a better plan for success in 2026.

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