The wait is almost over, Lions fans! The full 2026 Detroit Lions schedule drops on Thursday, May 14, but a few juicy rumors and leaks are already making the rounds. Here's what we know so far to get your game-day gear ready.
First up, the Lions are heading international! According to Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch, Detroit will play in Munich, Germany, at the iconic Allianz Arena on Sunday, Nov. 15. It's the team's first international game since 2015, and they'll face either the New England Patriots, New York Giants, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The opponent will be revealed Wednesday at 9 a.m. ET on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football."
Mark your calendars for a massive Week 2 showdown. The Lions will take on the Buffalo Bills on Thursday Night Football, Sept. 17, at Highmark Stadium—Buffalo's brand-new $2.2 billion home. This will be the first game ever played in that stadium, making it a historic matchup you won't want to miss.
Overall, the Lions' 17-game slate includes seven contests against teams that made the 2025 playoffs. That's a tough but exciting schedule that promises plenty of primetime drama. Last season, Detroit played five primetime games, plus seven more in the 4:25 p.m. national window (including Christmas Day), and their traditional Thanksgiving game. Clearly, the league sees this team as a must-watch.
As for the Munich game, it will air on Fox and kick off before their regular 1 p.m. and 4:25 p.m. windows, so plan your day accordingly. Whether you're rocking a new Lions jersey or just stocking up on gear for the season, this schedule is shaping up to be one for the books. Stay tuned for the full release Thursday night!
