Colin Cowherd ranks Detroit Lions fourth in 2026 NFL season preview
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 2:18 PM
Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Colin Cowherd placed the Detroit Lions at number four in his initial 2026 Herd Hierarchy NFL rankings. Despite missing the playoffs last season with a 9-8 record, the team enters the new schedule with expectations for a return to contention. The offense features returning playmakers including Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta, and Jameson Williams. Former Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing takes over a unit that finished fifth in the league in yards per game last year. Data from Warren Sharp indicates the team faces the easiest strength of schedule in the NFL for the upcoming campaign. Cowherd cited the favorable slate and the team’s offensive depth as primary factors for the high ranking.
- •Colin Cowherd ranked the Detroit Lions fourth in his Week 1 Herd Hierarchy.
- •The Lions finished last season 9-8 and fourth in the NFC North.
- •Drew Petzing joined the staff as the new offensive coordinator.
- •Warren Sharp projects the team faces the league's easiest schedule.
- 2:18 PMYahoo Sports — Colin Cowherd Ranks Detroit Lions Fourth Entering 2026 Season
"Colin Cowherd put the Detroit Lions near the top of his 2026 NFL rankings. #Lions
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