2026 Chargers schedule: 8 takeaways from the release

TL;DR

The Chargers have released their 2026 schedule, featuring two consecutive home games to start the season against the Cardinals and Raiders. This marks the first time since 1996 that they will have back-to-back home games to begin the season.

Key points

Chargers released their 2026 schedule
First two games are at home against Cardinals and Raiders
First back-to-back home games since 1996

Los Angeles ChargersArizona CardinalsLas Vegas Raiders

The Chargers released their schedule on Thursday.

Here are eight takeaways from Los Angeles' 17-game slate:

Fast start opportunities

The Chargers open with two straight home games against the Cardinals and Raiders, providing an early opportunity to establish momentum at SoFi Stadium and go 2-0 before their first road game. It also marks the first time since 1996 that they've had back-to-back home games.

Early road test

After staying local for the first two weeks, the Chargers hit a brutal back-to-back road stretch. They travel to face the Bills in Week 3, followed by playing in one of the league's most hostile environments in Seattle against the Seahawks in Week 4.

Early bye week & post-bye gauntlet

The Chargers have a Week 7 bye, which is their earliest break since 2021. It arrives just before a difficult three-game stretch against the Rams, Texans, and Ravens, which will require them to be rested for a mid-season push.