Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Season Preview: Schedule Release and International Matchup in Munich
The Detroit Lions are gearing up for the 2026 NFL season with high hopes of bouncing back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. The team's schedule will be unveiled on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, with a notable international matchup against the New England Patriots in Munich, Germany, on Nov. 15 at 9:30 a.m. This game marks the Lions' return to international play since their 2015 showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs in London.
In the upcoming season, the Lions will face off against teams from the NFC South and AFC East, along with the last-place finishers from the NFC West, NFC East, and AFC South in 2025. Additionally, they will have home and away games against their NFC North division rivals, adding to their challenging 17-game schedule. The lineup of opponents includes familiar faces like the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings, as well as matchups against teams like the Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots (in Munich), and New Orleans Saints.
After a 9-8 record in the previous season, the Lions are looking to make significant improvements to their roster and coaching staff. Coach Dan Campbell has made changes, including bringing in Drew Petzing as the new offensive coordinator and adding talent through free agency and the draft. With key additions like center Cade Mays and offensive tackle Blake Miller, the Lions are aiming to provide better protection for quarterback Jared Goff, who had a strong performance last season but faced challenges with sacks.
Stay tuned for the release of the Lions' week-to-week schedule on Thursday night, along with in-depth season analysis and predictions. Detroit fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead with the team's revamped lineup and renewed determination to succeed.