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NFL Schedule Drops: International Games & Early Start
28 Apr
Summary
- NFL schedule release expected around May 12-14, 2026.
- 2026 NFL season begins September 9th in Seattle.
- Nine international games are scheduled for 2026.

The NFL schedule for 2026 is set to be released in May, with an official announcement expected between the 12th and 14th. This release marks a significant point in the offseason, following the 2026 NFL Draft. The upcoming schedule will feature an expanded international presence, including games in Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Mexico, Spain, and the United Kingdom, with nine games planned for international locations.
The 2026 NFL regular season will commence earlier than usual, beginning on Wednesday, September 9th, in Seattle, Washington. The defending Super Bowl champions will host the traditional opening game. This shift from the typical Thursday kickoff is to accommodate a new international game, with the Los Angeles Rams scheduled to play the San Francisco 49ers in Australia on Thursday, September 10th. Week 1 will thus feature games on Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, and Monday.