UPDATE: The Detroit Lions enter Week 18 with their 2026 NFL Draft fate hanging in the balance. Currently at 8-8 and eliminated from playoff contention, the Lions sit at the 15th overall pick but could dramatically shift their draft position based on Sunday’s outcomes.
As the Lions prepare to face off against the Chicago Bears at 1:00 PM EST today, the stakes are high. A loss could see them climb as high as the 12th pick in the draft, contingent on several key games. For this to happen, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers must defeat the Carolina Panthers, the Atlanta Falcons need to take down the New Orleans Saints, and the Dallas Cowboys must secure a win against the New York Giants.
The Lions’ current strength of schedule stands at .491, the weakest among the three other teams at 8-8 and out of playoff contention. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins, who could also finish 8-9, have a strength of schedule of .485, making this final week of games crucial for draft positioning.
If the Lions manage a victory today, they would finish at 9-8, which would push their pick as low as 18th. This would mark a significant improvement, avoiding a losing season for the first time since their 3-13-1 record in 2021.
“The Lions are at a pivotal moment,” said NFL analyst Marlowe Alter. “Their performance today could reshape their future.”
The first-round draft order as it currently stands, according to Tankathon.com, is as follows:
- No. 11: Miami Dolphins, 7-9, .485, at New England
- No. 12: Atlanta Falcons, 7-9, .496, vs. New Orleans
- No. 13: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 7-9, .533, vs. Carolina
- No. 14: Dallas Cowboys, 7-8-1, .436, at New York Giants
- No. 15: Detroit Lions, 8-8, .491, at Chicago
- No. 16: Baltimore Ravens, 8-8, .502, at Pittsburgh
- No. 17: Minnesota Vikings, 8-8, .517, vs. Green Bay
- No. 18: Indianapolis Colts, 8-8, .537, at Houston
In addition to draft positioning, a loss could offer the Lions a fourth-place schedule in 2026, including matchups against potentially weaker teams like the New York Giants and the Arizona Cardinals. This strategic advantage could bolster their chances in future seasons.
The Lions hold at least seven draft picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. While they currently do not have a third-round pick due to previous trades, they are projected to receive at least one compensatory choice.
As fans eagerly anticipate the outcome of today’s game, the Lions’ draft prospects remain a hot topic. Will they secure a better position, or will today’s result hinder their future plans? Keep an eye on the scoreboard, as the implications extend far beyond Week 18.
