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2026 NFL schedule favors Lions and Eagles in fantasy drafts

ESPN NFL •
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The 2026 NFL schedule gives Detroit the smoothest ride for fantasy players. The Lions face zero top-10 defenses all season, with attractive matchups against the Dolphins, Cardinals, Falcons, Bills, Titans, Giants and Saints. Jahmyr Gibbs especially benefits — he no longer competes with David Montgomery for touches and has a strong case to be the No. 1 overall pick.

Philadelphia's offense also enjoys a comfortable slate. The Eagles own the easiest projected schedule at three of four key fantasy positions — quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end. Five games against the NFC East help, along with favorable matchups versus the Titans and Cardinals. But their playoff stretch against the Seahawks, Texans and 49ers could test Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith.

Arizona drew the hardest deal, with nearly a quarter of its games against elite Rams and Seahawks defenses plus Chiefs, Chargers and Eagles. Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson become riskier draft targets. Meanwhile, Jonathan Taylor is primed for another strong year after a brutal Colts slate last season torpedoed his production without a healthy Daniel Jones.