Detroit Lions receive mediocre rankings entering 2026 season opener against Saints
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 11:12 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
The Detroit Lions begin the 2026 NFL regular season under scrutiny from several major media outlets regarding their overall team standing. Power rankings from NFL.com, The Ringer, CBS, and Bleacher Report place Detroit between 12th and 19th in the league. Analysts cite persistent injuries to key personnel, including safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, alongside offensive concerns involving center Cade Mays and tight end Sam LaPorta. The team also faces roster adjustments following the departure of cornerback Terrion Arnold. Despite these evaluations, the Lions are preparing to host the New Orleans Saints at Ford Field in their Week 1 matchup. This contest marks the first time the Saints have played in Detroit since 2014.
- •The Detroit Lions host the New Orleans Saints for a Week 1 game at Ford Field.
- •Power rankings from major outlets place the Lions between No. 12 and No. 19.
- •Injuries to Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, Isiah Pacheco, Cade Mays, and Sam LaPorta impact early-season depth.
- •Cornerback Terrion Arnold was released by the team during the offseason following legal charges.
- 11:12 PMYahoo Sports — Lions Get Concerning Reality Check From Multiple NFL Power Rankings
"Following a 9-8 finish during the 2025 NFL season, the Detroit Lions enter the 2026 campaign with renewed optimism that they can produce a better result this year. With several new faces looking to make an immediate impact alongside a number of returning stars, the Lions are determined to get back to the postseason this […] The post Lions Get Concerning Reality Check From Multiple NFL Power Rankings appeared first on HEAVY.
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