The NFL regular season is just around the corner, and the league is set to unveil the full 2026 schedule later this month. While the release has been slightly delayed, fans won't have to wait much longer to see their team's path to the playoffs.
In anticipation of the schedule drop, a computer model from Sharp Football Analysis has crunched the numbers to identify which teams will have the most favorable schedules in 2026. Using projected win totals from Vegas oddsmakers, the model calculates strength of schedule for all 32 teams.
“With odds released for all 32 NFL teams, we are now able to calculate NFL Strength of Schedule using projected win totals from Vegas oddsmakers,” Sharp Football Analysis wrote.
According to the model, the Detroit Lions have the easiest strength of schedule for the 2026 season. After a disappointing 2025 campaign, the Lions could be poised for a bounce-back year thanks to a relatively soft slate of opponents.
Here are the five NFL teams with the easiest schedules in 2026, according to the computer model:
- Detroit Lions
- [Team 2]
- [Team 3]
- [Team 4]
- [Team 5]
The Lions' favorable schedule could be a game-changer for a team that struggled in 2025. With key players returning and a lighter schedule, Detroit fans have reason to be optimistic about a potential playoff run.
Other teams on the list also stand to benefit from weaker opponents, giving them a leg up in the competitive NFC. The model's projections suggest that these teams could see improved records in 2026, barring major injuries or roster shake-ups.
As the NFL schedule release approaches, fans will be eagerly analyzing their team's matchups. For the Lions and the other teams on this list, the path to success looks a little smoother.
For more insights on how schedules impact performance, check out our analysis of which NFL teams are projected to dominate in 2026. And for a look at college football's toughest schedules, see this breakdown of SEC and Big Ten challenges.
