The NFL schedule release is always a thrilling moment for fans, and this year, the Seattle Seahawks have a special reason to celebrate. As the defending Super Bowl champions, they'll kick off the 2026 season at home on Wednesday, September 9th. The last time Seattle opened the season as champs was back in 2014, when they hosted the Green Bay Packers in a rematch of the NFC Championship game. The Seahawks dominated that night, winning 36-16, and the league is hoping for another exciting matchup this time around.

With nine home games on the docket, the NFL has plenty of intriguing options for the season opener. Let's break down the possibilities. Typically, the league might look to a divisional rival like the Rams or 49ers, but that's unlikely this year. Since 2004, only three defending champions have opened against a division foe, and all were NFC East matchups. The 2019 Packers-Bears opener was a special exception for the NFL's 100th season. This time, the Rams and 49ers will be busy—they're heading to Australia to start their seasons on September 10th.

The Seahawks' home schedule is loaded with exciting opponents, but there's one clear dud: the Arizona Cardinals. Coming off a 3-14 season and failing to address their quarterback situation in the offseason, they simply don't have the star power for a marquee opener. The NFL has far too many better options to choose from.

One potential blockbuster would be the Kansas City Chiefs—if Patrick Mahomes hadn't torn his ACL. A comeback game for the superstar quarterback would be incredible theater, but with his status uncertain, the league will likely look elsewhere. Still, the Seahawks have plenty of other fun matchups to consider, and whichever team gets the nod, fans can expect a memorable start to the 2026 season.