The Lions are expected to face one of the NFL’s toughest schedules in 2026, but not every matchup looks dangerous. As Detroit pushes for a Super Bowl, these three non-divisional opponents stand out as the most favorable games on the schedule.
The NFL schedule release is finally almost here. Come Thursday, May 14, the Detroit Lions will officially learn when they play, how many primetime games they earned and which stretches of the schedule could define their 2026 season. While Detroit is expected to once again be one of the NFL’s top teams, not every matchup on the schedule looks intimidating.
Recently, I broke down what I believe are the Lions’ three toughest non-divisional games heading into the season — the Patriots, Bills and Giants. But on the opposite side, there are also several teams Detroit should feel confident against. No game in the NFL is guaranteed, but based on current rosters and quarterback situations, these three matchups stand out as the most favorable for the Lions entering 2026.
Lions Host Jets
One of the more interesting storylines on Detroit’s schedule will be the return of former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who is now leading the New York Jets. Assuming Glenn is still the head coach by the time these teams meet, it will create a fascinating reunion at Ford Field.
Still, this matchup heavily favors Detroit on paper.
The Jets are coming off a disastrous 3-14 season and brought back Geno Smith at quarterback hoping to stabilize the offense. However, Smith is coming off one of his worst seasons in recent years, and there are major questions about whether New York can score consistently.
The Jets’ defense also struggled to create turnovers last season, finishing the year without recording a single interception. Against Detroit’s explosive offense led by Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, that could be a major problem.
Lions Host Titans
Detroit also benefits from finishing last in the division standings because it created a more manageable crossover matchup. Instead of facing the Colts, the Lions will host the Tennessee Titans.
Tennessee finished with just three wins last season while starting rookie quarterback Cam Ward for much of the year. Ward has talent and upside, but consistency is still a major question mark for the young quarterback.
The Titans also entered a new era by hiring former Jets head coach Robert Saleh. Saleh is respected as a defensive-minded coach, but rebuilding Tennessee into a contender will likely take time.
One bright spot for the Titans is the addition of wide receiver Carnell Tate, who was selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Tate gives Tennessee another weapon offensively, but the roster still appears far from complete.
Detroit’s experience, offensive firepower and overall roster depth should give the Lions a clear edge in this matchup.
Lions Travel to Arizona
Arizona may have the weakest quarterback situation of the three teams listed here. The Cardinals are expected to head into the season with Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew and rookie Carson Beck competing for the starting job.
This game also carries an interesting revenge angle for new Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who spent the last three seasons in Arizona before joining Detroit. His familiarity with the Cardinals could provide another advantage for the Lions offense.
Arizona did make a major addition by drafting running back Jeremiyah Love with the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Love is viewed by many as a generational talent and should immediately improve the Cardinals offense.
Still, unless Arizona gets unexpectedly strong quarterback play, Detroit should enter this matchup as the better team.
Overall
The NFL always delivers surprises, and “any given Sunday” exists for a reason. But when looking strictly at roster strength, quarterback play and organizational direction, the Jets, Titans and Cardinals currently appear to be among the least threatening non-divisional opponents on Detroit’s schedule.
Once the full schedule drops May 14, Lions fans will finally get a clearer picture of the road ahead. On paper, though, these are three games Detroit should absolutely expect to win.