UPDATED ON 12/26/25

With the Detroit Lions sitting in fourth place in the NFC North after Week 17, we can already map out what their 2026 opponents would look like if the season ended today. Thanks to the NFL’s scheduling formula, next year’s slate is shaping up to be a mix of familiar rivals, tough road trips, and one potential game overseas, with Munich, Germany, still widely rumored as Detroit’s international destination.

Let’s take a look at the full breakdown.

2026 Home Opponents

Here’s who the Lions would host next season based on the standings as of Week 15.

International Game Note:

One of these home games is expected to be moved overseas, with Munich, Germany heavily rumored as the host city. The opponent has not been confirmed, but likely candidates include the Jets, Patriots, Saints, Commanders, or Colts.

2026 Away Opponents

Detroit’s road slate could be just as intriguing, and possibly more difficult.

Why These Are the Opponents

Since the Lions currently sit in third place, the schedule formula dictates:

• 6 division games (home & away vs. Bears, Packers, Vikings)
• 4 games vs. NFC South (2 home, 2 away)
• 4 games vs. AFC East (2 home, 2 away)
• 1 game vs. NFC East team that finishes third
• 1 game vs. AFC South team that finishes third
• 1 game vs. NFC West team that finishes third

That gives Detroit 17 total games:
8 home, 8 away, 1 international (home designation).