The Kansas City Chiefs will open the 2026 NFL season against the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football, scheduled for September 14 at 7:15 p.m. CT. The game location is yet to be finalized.
The first Kansas City Chiefs game for the 2026 season has been revealed, and it will begin under the lights in prime time.
According to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Chiefs will open the 2026 NFL season against the Denver Broncos. The matchup hasn't been finalized regarding location, but the long-time AFC West rivals will be the first Monday Night Football game of the season at 7:15 p.m. CT on September 14.
The Broncos last season swept the Chiefs in their two meetings, snapping the Chiefs' nine-season run as AFC West champions. Kansas City is seeking a rebound season after its disappointing 6-11 finish in 2025, while the Broncos want to maintain their hold on the division and return to the AFC Championship game with a healthy Bo Nix at quarterback.
The Chiefs will enter the game potentially without quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is continuing his rehab after last year's ACL and LCL surgery. Justin Fields was acquired during the offseason as a veteran backup just in case Mahomes wasn't ready to begin the season. Kenneth Walker, the prized offseason free agent signing for Kansas City, will make his Chiefs debut in the first official game since his Super Bowl LX MVP performance.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs vs. Broncos will open the 2026 season on Monday Night Football
The game is scheduled for September 14, 2026, at 7:15 p.m. CT.
This matchup marks the opening game of the 2026 NFL season and features long-time AFC West rivals, with the Broncos having swept the Chiefs in their previous meetings.
Patrick Mahomes may not be ready due to rehab from surgery, so Justin Fields has been acquired as a backup for the season opener.
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