The Detroit Lions are gearing up for a thrilling 2026 NFL season opener, and it's one that carries a little extra sentiment. On September 13, the Lions will host the New Orleans Saints at Ford Field, marking a homecoming for head coach Dan Campbell against one of his former teams.

Campbell, now entering his sixth season at the helm in Detroit, has deep ties to the Saints organization. He spent his final playing season with New Orleans in 2009, where he was part of their Super Bowl-winning squad, and later served as their assistant head coach and tight ends coach for five years before taking the Lions' job. The matchup adds an intriguing layer of nostalgia, especially with former Lions quarterback Kellen Moore now in his second year as the Saints' head coach.

While the full 2026 schedule drops tonight, several key matchups have already leaked. After hosting the Saints, Detroit will hit the road for a Week 2 showdown against the Buffalo Bills, which will be the first game at Buffalo's brand-new stadium. The Lions will also make a transatlantic trip in Week 11, facing the New England Patriots in Germany on November 15. The annual Thanksgiving game is set for November 27, when the Lions will host the Chicago Bears, and they'll close out the regular season against the Green Bay Packers in Week 18.

Both teams are looking to bounce back from tough 2025 campaigns. The Lions finished 9-8 and last in the NFC North, while the Saints went 6-11 and landed at the bottom of the NFC South. This season opener could set the tone for redemption on both sides.

Whether you're repping the Honolulu Blue or the black and gold, get ready for a season that starts with a storybook twist. Gear up now to show your team pride from the very first snap.