UPDATE: The Detroit Lions are on the verge of significant draft implications as they prepare for their pivotal Week 18 matchup against the Chicago Bears this Sunday. With a current record of 8-8 and eliminated from playoff contention, the Lions hold the 15th pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, according to Tankathon.com.
As the clock ticks down to game day, every moment counts. If the Lions lose, they could potentially rise to the 12th pick, but this scenario hinges on the outcomes of several other games this weekend. Specifically, they need the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to defeat the Carolina Panthers on Saturday, the Atlanta Falcons to triumph over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, and the Dallas Cowboys to secure a victory against the New York Giants on the same day.
In a twist of fate, the Lions could even aim for the 11th pick if fortune favors them. However, this requires a win against the Bears, which would boost their record to 9-8—a significant achievement, as it would prevent a losing season for the first time since the dismal 3-13-1 finish in 2021.
Here’s the draft order for picks 11-18 as they stand before Week 18:
No. 11: Miami Dolphins, 7-9, .485, at New England.
No. 12: Atlanta Falcons (to LA Rams), 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 (to New York Jets), 8-8, .537, at Houston.
The Lions’ situation is further complicated by the fact that they are not the only team at 8-8. The Carolina Panthers, leading the NFC South, are currently positioned at 19th with a .522 strength of schedule.
Another critical factor for the Lions is the potential benefit of a loss. Should they finish fourth in the NFC North, they could secure an advantageous schedule for the 2026 season, facing weaker opponents, including the New York Giants, the Arizona Cardinals, and the Tennessee Titans.
The Lions are poised to make at least seven picks in the 2026 Draft set to take place in Pittsburgh from April 23-25. However, they currently lack a third-round pick due to previous trades. They are projected to receive at least one compensatory pick, estimated as a fifth-round choice due to player losses in free agency.
As the game approaches, the stakes are high for the Lions. Fans are eagerly watching the outcomes of this crucial Week 18 and how it could shape the future of the team. With every play potentially affecting their draft position, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops.
