The NFL plans to release its 2026 schedule between May 12 and May 14, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Two Week 1 games are already set, including an international matchup in Australia. The season will feature a record nine international games.
ESPN's Adam Schefter said on his podcast to circle the week of May 11 for the announcement. He expects it sometime between Tuesday, May 12, and Thursday, May 14. The league has released schedules on Wednesdays the past two years, pointing to May 13 as a likely date, though Thursdays have been used recently too. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt noted that Kansas City probably won't open against Seattle on September 9 due to uncertainty over Patrick Mahomes' availability. Week 1 includes a Wednesday game on September 9 with an opponent to be announced playing at the Seahawks at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC. The following day, the Rams host the 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, kicking off at 8:35 p.m. ET—Friday morning local time due to the time difference. The 2026 slate marks a record with nine international games. Home teams include the Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro, Saints in Paris, 49ers in Mexico City, Jaguars twice in London, Commanders in London, Lions in Munich, and Falcons in Madrid. Rumors suggest dates like Week 3 for Brazil and Week 11 for Mexico City. Other highlights include a returning Christmas tripleheader on Netflix and Fox, with the Chiefs expressing interest in playing at home, per president Mark Donovan. The league is considering a Thanksgiving Eve game and possibly a second Black Friday matchup, as noted by executives Hans Schroeder and commissioner Roger Goodell. Monday doubleheaders are ending after fan feedback.
