Which games could the Bucs play in primetime in 2026?

With the NFL Schedule Release just over 24 hours away, we wanted to make some guesses as to which games could get the primetime treatment. In 2026, the Bucs played four games in primetime and had mixed results in those.

Now, while we do not know the full slate for the team, we can expect they will be returning to primetime a few times in 2026. We have some ideas of what other games could be worth putting in primetime and why, and we would like to share them now.

Cleveland Browns

Reason for Primetime: Baker Mayfield

The game may not seem that exciting on paper, but this just screams an early-season Thursday night game for these two teams. The match-up between Baker Mayfield and the Browns is one thing, but if reports are true and Deshaun Watson is the projected starter, then seeing those two match up would be a fun story to watch unfold. Watson's arrival in Cleveland is what started the worst run of Mayfield's professional career, and for someone as competitive as him, he will be plenty amped up privately and publicly leading up to it.

Minnesota Vikings

Reason for Primetime: Oklahoma Heisman Connection

If Kyler Murray is the starter for the Minnesota Vikings, that would allow for several talking points to emerge. The biggest being, of course, that these are former college teammates, former Heisman Trophy Winners, and former top overall picks. Between him and Baker Mayfield, there is a lot to talk about, while you have two explosive offenses going against tough defenses as the final selling point.

Atlanta Falcons

Reason for Primetime: Baker Mayfield and Kevin Stefanski

After all that talk, after Kevin Stefanski was announced as the coach for the Falcons, you think they won't have a game in primetime? The pregame show would, of course, be making this the focus, but this would be a game with several talking points. Beyond Stefanski and Mayfield, there is also the division rivalry aspect, new Bucs playcaller Zac Robinson coaching against his former team, and the quarterback situation with the Falcons would be a big talking point as well.