2026 NFL Draft Order: Detroit Lions' Potential Pick Position and Draft Strategy
The Detroit Lions are currently positioned at No. 15 in the 2026 NFL Draft order, as they have been eliminated from playoff contention with an 8-8 record. Their draft position is influenced by their strength of schedule compared to other 8-8 teams not in the playoffs. A loss in Week 18 against the Chicago Bears could potentially move them up to the 12th pick, depending on the outcomes of other games involving teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, and Dallas Cowboys.
The Miami Dolphins, who are also at 8-8, have a slightly lower strength of schedule than the Lions, but this could change after the final week of games. If everything goes right for the Lions, they might have a chance to pick 11th. However, a win in Week 18 would secure a 9-8 record for the Lions and could push their draft position down to 18th, based on the results of other games.
The draft order for Picks 11-18 is determined by strength of schedule, with the Lions potentially facing a fourth-place schedule in 2026 if they secure a loss in Week 18. This would mean matchups against different teams compared to a win scenario, such as facing the New York Giants instead of the Washington Commanders and the Arizona Cardinals instead of the Los Angeles Rams.
The Lions are set to have at least seven draft picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the possibility of receiving a compensatory fifth-round pick due to 2025 free agency losses. Despite not having a third-round pick, the Lions are preparing for the draft in Pittsburgh from April 23-25, aiming to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.