Detroit Lions Release 2026 Preseason Schedule
TL;DR
The Detroit Lions have released their 2026 preseason schedule, featuring games against the Cincinnati Bengals, Washington Commanders, and Indianapolis Colts. The preseason will start with an away game against Cincinnati.
Key points
- Detroit Lions released 2026 preseason schedule
- Preseason includes games against Bengals, Commanders, Colts
- First game is away against Cincinnati
- Home game against Washington in Week 2
- Final preseason game is away against Indianapolis
The Detroit Lions officially released their 2026 preseason schedule on Thursday night alongside the full regular season slate.
Detroit’s exhibition lineup features matchups against the Cincinnati Bengals, Washington Commanders, and Indianapolis Colts as the team prepares for another season with major expectations.
The Lions will open preseason play on the road against Cincinnati before returning home to face Washington in Week 2. Detroit will then wrap up preseason action with another road matchup against Indianapolis.
Game dates and kickoff times have not yet been announced.
Detroit Lions preseason schedule
Lions likely to prioritize health during preseason
With Detroit once again expected to contend in the NFC, it will be interesting to see how much playing time head coach Dan Campbell gives his starters during exhibition play.
In recent years, the Lions have leaned toward caution with key veterans during the preseason while still using the games to evaluate younger players battling for roster spots.
That could especially be true this year given Detroit’s demanding regular season schedule, which includes multiple primetime games, a Thanksgiving showdown against the Chicago Bears, and an international matchup in Germany.
Several roster battles expected this summer
Preseason games are rarely about the final score.
Instead, the spotlight will likely fall on Detroit’s young depth pieces, rookies, and players fighting for backup roles across the roster.
The Lions could have major training camp battles at positions like defensive line, wide receiver, offensive line depth, and the secondary heading into 2026.
And as always, preseason performances could go a long way toward shaping the final 53 man roster.
Q&A
What teams will the Detroit Lions play in the 2026 preseason?
The Detroit Lions will face the Cincinnati Bengals, Washington Commanders, and Indianapolis Colts in the 2026 preseason.
When does the Detroit Lions' 2026 preseason start?
The Detroit Lions will open their 2026 preseason with an away game against the Cincinnati Bengals, but the exact date has not yet been announced.
Where will the Detroit Lions play their 2026 preseason games?
The Lions will play their 2026 preseason games at home against the Washington Commanders and on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals and Indianapolis Colts.
