2026 Schedule Overview
The NFL has announced a comprehensive 2026 regular‑season schedule that includes 272 games, stretching from early September through mid‑December. The slate is designed to give fans a packed lineup of competition across the country.
Monday Night Football makes its much‑anticipated return to ESPN and ABC, restoring the traditional prime‑time platform that has become a staple for viewers across the United States.
Key Early Matchups
One of the most eagerly awaited openers pits the Kansas City Chiefs against the Denver Broncos on September 14, a game that could feature the return of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and rookie Bo Nix after both missed the previous season with injuries.
Other high‑profile contests on the early schedule include the Los Angeles Rams taking on the Buffalo Bills, the Philadelphia Eagles facing the Dallas Cowboys, and the Seattle Seahawks meeting the Chicago Bears, each promising compelling storylines.
Super Bowl 61 on the Horizon
The regular season will culminate with Super Bowl 61 scheduled for February 14, 2027, broadcast on ESPN and ABC. The championship game will determine the league champion after a year of intense competition.
Later in the year, the Seattle Seahawks will travel to face the Dallas Cowboys on December 7, the Kansas City Chiefs will host the New England Patriots on December 21, and the Detroit Lions will close out the regular season against the New York Giants on December 28, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.