NFL 2026: Season Discussion Thread NFL

[Birdman]

The league is gearing up to announce its 2026 schedule on May 14, and there's a buzz in the air about which teams will face off in the opening game.

This season, the defending Super Bowl champions will kick things off on Wednesday, September 9. In a global twist, the 49ers and Rams are set to clash in Australia just a day later, marking an exciting international matchup for fans down under.

As we await the official schedule reveal, many are wondering who the Seattle Seahawks will open their season against. The anticipation of seeing how the matchups shape up is palpable, and it's sure to spark plenty of discussions among fans.

 

[Tom]

The Buffalo Bills are gearing up to kick off their new stadium with a thrilling matchup against the Detroit Lions on September 17. This game marks the inaugural Thursday Night Football (TNF) event of the upcoming season at Highmark Stadium.

Fans can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere as the Bills welcome the Lions for what promises to be an electrifying start to the season. This matchup not only highlights the Bills' commitment to providing their fans with an exceptional game day experience but also sets the tone for the season ahead. As the first TNF game, it's sure to draw significant attention and excitement from fans across the league.

The full league schedule will be released on Thursday (May 14)

Here's what to know about the NFL schedule release in 2026 and a look at some of the games that were already announced.

NFL schedule 2026

Week 1

• Wednesday, Sept. 9: Seattle Seahawks vs. TBA
• Thursday, Sept. 10: Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers in Australia
• Sunday, Sept. 13: New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
• Monday, Sept. 14: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos*

*Location TBD

Week 2

• Thursday, Sept 17: Buffalo Bills vs. Detroit Lions

Week 3

• Sunday, Sept. 27: Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens in Brazil

NFL international games, schedule in 2026

There are nine games on the NFL's international schedule for 2026. According to the league's announcement, the 2026 international schedule will be revealed at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13 on the "Good Morning Football" show on NFL Network.

Here's a look at where they will be played and the participants that have been announced:
Australia game

• Week 1 (Sept. 10): Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers | Melbourne Cricket Ground | Melbourne

According to a report, Netflix will broadcast the Sept. 10 game in Australia. Football fans living outside of the Los Angeles and San Francisco local markets will need a subscription to the streaming service to watch the game.

The Rams vs. 49ers game in Melbourne will be the first of at least three games broadcast on Netflix during the 2026 season. Netflix will also broadcast two NFL games on Christmas in 2026 – the third straight year it's done so.
Brazil game

• Week 3 (Sept. 27): Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens | Maracaña Stadium | Rio de Janeiro

France game

• New Orleans Saints vs. TBA | Stade de France | Paris

Germany game

• Detroit Lions vs. TBA | Allianz Arena | Munich

London games

• Jacksonville Jaguars vs. TBA | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium | London
• Washington Commanders vs. TBA | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium | London
• Jacksonville Jaguars vs. TBA | Wembley Stadium | London

Mexico game

• San Francisco 49ers vs. TBA | Estadio Banorte | Mexico City

Spain game

• Atlanta Falcons vs. TBA | Bernabéu | Madrid

 

[Steve]

Well, it looks like Aaron Rodgers has surprised us all by returning to the Pittsburgh Steelers for his 22nd NFL season! The QB, who will be 43 in December, finally signed on with the Steelers after a lengthy negotiation process.

Rodgers is undoubtedly a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience. His skill set and leadership could prove invaluable for the Steelers, especially considering their current roster. However, the big question is whether he can truly bridge the gap to a brighter future for the team or if he might become more of a roadblock.

Some key points to consider:

• Experience: Rodgers has been around long enough to know what it takes to win, and his presence could elevate the performance of younger players.
• Pressure: He's coming in with high expectations. Will he thrive under that pressure, or will it weigh him down?
• Team Dynamics: How will his playing style mesh with the Steelers' existing game plan? Adapting to a new team can be challenging, even for a player of his calibre.

If things go well, we could see Rodgers leading the Steelers deep into the playoffs, bringing a winning mentality to the locker room and helping to develop the next generation of talent. Imagine a scenario where he not only performs well but also mentors younger quarterbacks, setting them up for success in the years to come.

It'll be interesting to see how this all plays out. What are your thoughts? Is he the answer for the Steelers, or could this be a misstep in their long-term plans?

 

[BlackEyed Pete]

Wow!!!! What just happened?

The Cleveland Browns are finalising a trade that will send two-time DPOTY Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams!

In exchange for Garrett, the Rams are expected to send Pro-Bowl edge Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick.

 

[Steve]

Garrett is a fantastic player, but I think people are going overboard with his impact. Jared Verse is also a fantastic player who is 3rd in the NFL in pressures behind Garrett and Parsons. Yes, Garrett is better, but not substantially better. It is not like Garrett is replacing a replacement-level player on the line.

Saying that, the Rams are a scary prospect for the season ahead.

 

[Steve]

A.J. Brown has officially joined the New England Patriots, fulfilling a childhood dream for the talented wide receiver. As a young fan of the team, Brown's journey has come full circle as he steps onto the practice field under the guidance of his former Titans coach Mike Vrabel.

This reunion not only highlights Brown's growth as a player but also signifies a fresh start with the Patriots.

Brown's passion for the game and his dedication to the Patriots will undoubtedly bring a new dynamic to the team.

 

[Steve]

The Minnesota Vikings are stepping into an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Nolan Teasley as their new General Manager. Teasley, who will have the final say on all roster decisions, is set to lead the team alongside head coach Kevin O'Connell and salary cap guru Rob Brzezinski. This trio is expected to foster a collaborative environment that can enhance the team's performance and strategic direction.

Teasley's leadership style is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the Vikings' operations, emphasising teamwork and communication among the front office and coaching staff. This new approach aims to create a cohesive vision for the team, ensuring that everyone is aligned in their goals and strategies.

 

[Steve]

Atlanta Falcons have officially signed wide receiver Drake London to a lucrative four-year contract extension worth $141 million. At just 24 years old, London has already made a significant impact on the field, showcasing his talent and potential as a key player for the Falcons.

This extension not only secures London's future with the team but also highlights the Falcons' commitment to building a strong roster around him. As he continues to develop his skills, fans can look forward to seeing more of his electrifying plays in the upcoming seasons.

The decision to extend London's contract reflects the organisation's confidence in his abilities and their vision for the team's future. It's an exciting time for both the player and the franchise as they aim for success in the competitive landscape of the NFL.

Since his rookie season, London is 15th in the NFL in receiving yards (3,961), according to TruMedia. In the last two seasons, he is among the top 10 in the league in receiving touchdowns (16), receiving yards per game (75.5), targets (270) and team target percentage (25.5).

His production has been amazing considering who has been throwing the football to him. Well earned payday in my opinion.

 

[BlackEyed Pete]

Russell Wilson has officially announced his retirement from professional football after an impressive 14-season career in the NFL. Wilson, who recently played for the New York Giants, is now set to embark on a new journey as an analyst for CBS Sports.

This transition marks the end of an era for Wilson, who has been a prominent figure in the league, known for his exceptional skills and leadership on the field. His decision to join CBS Sports signals a new chapter where he will share his insights and experiences with fans and viewers alike.

Wilson will join host James Brown and analysts Nate Burleson and Bill Cowher on "The NFL Today." The network had been looking for a replacement for the spot vacated by Matt Ryan, who left to become the Atlanta Falcons' president of football. Former NFL offensive lineman Kyle Long will also be joining the show. Long is the son of Howie Long, a fixture of Fox's NFL Sunday pre-game show.

The move marks the end of what is likely a Hall of Fame career for Wilson. A third-round draft pick in 2012, the undersized Wilson led the Seattle Seahawks to two Super Bowls, winning one in a blowout of the Denver Broncos following the 2013 season. The next season, the Seahawks lost to the New England Patriots after Wilson threw an interception late at the goal line.

After 10 successful seasons in Seattle, the Seahawks traded Wilson to the Broncos in 2022 in a deal that sent back two first-round, two second-round draft choices, one fifth-round pick and three players. But Wilson struggled to recreate the magic he found in Seattle. He played two seasons in Denver, followed by one-season stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Giants.

Wilson ranks fifth in career passer rating among players who have at least 1,500 attempts.