The NFL has officially released its complete 2026 regular season schedule, featuring an expanded 18-game format for the first time in league history. The schedule is loaded with marquee matchups, international games, and prime-time showdowns that promise to deliver must-watch television every week.
Key Schedule Highlights
- Week 1 Opener: Kansas City Chiefs host the Buffalo Bills in a rematch of the 2025 AFC Championship
- Thanksgiving Triple-Header: Cowboys vs Eagles, Lions vs Packers, and 49ers vs Seahawks
- Christmas Day Games: Two games on December 25 exclusively on Netflix for the second straight year
- London Games: Four games at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium including Jaguars vs Bears and Vikings vs Saints
The 18-Game Season
After years of negotiations with the NFLPA, the league has expanded to an 18-game regular season with two bye weeks per team. The preseason has been reduced to two games. Players will receive a significant compensation increase, with the minimum salary rising 15% under the new agreement.
Monday Night Football Highlights
ESPN and ABC will broadcast all Monday Night Football games simultaneously. Marquee matchups include Cowboys vs Chiefs in Week 4, Ravens vs 49ers in Week 8, and Eagles vs Dolphins in Week 12.
The season kicks off Thursday September 10, 2026, with the defending champion hosting the opener as tradition dictates. The Super Bowl is scheduled for February 14, 2027, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called the 18-game season a 'transformative moment' for the league and its fans.
