Anticipation builds ahead of the full schedule release for the upcoming NFL season
TL;DR
The full 2026 NFL schedule will be released on Thursday, featuring 272 games over 18 weeks. The season begins on September 9 with the Seahawks raising their Super Bowl banner and includes a record nine international games.
Key points
- 2026 NFL schedule to be released Thursday night
- Season kicks off on September 9 with Seahawks' Super Bowl banner
- Record nine international games across four continents
- 49ers vs. Rams in Melbourne on September 10
- Steelers vs. Saints in Paris on October 25

Q&A
When does the 2026 NFL season start?
The 2026 NFL season starts on September 9, when the Seattle Seahawks raise their Super Bowl banner.
How many international games will be played in the 2026 NFL season?
There will be a record nine international games played across four continents in the 2026 NFL season.
Which teams are playing in the NFL's first regular-season game in France?
The Pittsburgh Steelers will face the New Orleans Saints on October 25 in the NFL's first regular-season game in France.