5 biggest non-division opponents on the Ravens' 2026 schedule

Houston continues building one of football's toughest rosters under head coach DeMeco Ryans. The Texans rebounded from a slow start to finish 12-5 and ranked among the NFL's top teams in DVOA. Baltimore's offense, facing Houston's aggressive defense, could become one of the season's defining physical battles.

Jacksonville Jaguars (Home)

The Jaguars quietly became one of the AFC's breakout teams last season. Under first-year head coach Liam Coen, Jacksonville won 13 games and captured the AFC South behind a resurgent season from quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Baltimore hosting one of the AFC's ascending offenses immediately makes this matchup one of the schedule's most dangerous games.

Los Angeles Chargers (Home)

The Chargers remain difficult to evaluate, but the talent level is undeniable. After an 11-win season and another playoff appearance, Los Angeles still features one of the league's most dangerous quarterbacks and enough defensive talent to challenge anyone. Baltimore's physical style against the Chargers' explosiveness could create one of the year's more entertaining matchups.

Final analysis

Baltimore's schedule also includes dangerous opponents like the Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and division rival Pittsburgh Steelers twice. If the Ravens successfully navigate this schedule and remain among the AFC's elite, it will further validate why Baltimore enters every season as one of the league's premier championship contenders.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens facing brutal nondivision schedule during 2026