Lions face Saints in Week 1 without defensive tackle Bryan Bresee

The Detroit Lions will begin the 2026 regular season against the New Orleans Saints on September 13 at Ford Field. Saints defensive tackle Bryan Bresee will not play due to a torn ACL that will require season-ending surgery. Bresee was a key player for the Saints, starting 15 games in 2025 and recording significant defensive stats. His absence will impact the Saints' interior defense as they prepare for the Lions' offense, which features quarterback Jared Goff and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. The Lions are under pressure to perform well after a disappointing 2025 season and cannot afford a slow start against an undermanned opponent.

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