The team's changed approach to camp prep gives a colleague or fan following the Lions a clearer picture of what to expect this summer.
Lions Set 2026 Preseason Dates Story flow and key facts
The Detroit Lions have finalized their 2026 preseason schedule, with two exhibition games set: a road game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, August 13 at 7 p.m. ET, and another away match against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday, August 29 at 1 p.m. ET. Both games will air on the Lions TV Network. This comes after the team announced they will no longer hold joint practices with other teams during training camp, a decision made by head coach Dan Campbell.
Campbell explained that while joint practices were beneficial in earlier years, by 2024 they began to feel counterproductive. He believes the team could gain more from internal preparation and additional self-run practices. As a result, the 2026 preseason may see more playing time for starting players, giving fans a better look at the core team before the regular season.
The Lions' offseason program continues with organized team activities (OTAs) scheduled for May 27–29, June 2–4, and June 9–11, followed by mandatory minicamp on June 16–17. These sessions will set the foundation for how the team integrates its new strategy ahead of training camp.
Facts
- The Detroit Lions will play two preseason games in 2026: at Cincinnati Bengals on August 13 and at Indianapolis Colts on August 29.
- Both games will be broadcast on the Lions TV Network at 7 p.m. and 1 p.m. ET respectively.
- Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the team is ending joint practices with other teams, citing diminishing returns after 2024.
- Campbell indicated starters may see increased playing time in preseason games to compensate for fewer external practices.
- OTAs are scheduled for May 27–29, June 2–4, and June 9–11, with mandatory minicamp on June 16–17.
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