The NFL Draft is officially in the books, and all eyes are now turning to the 2026 regular season schedule. The league confirmed last week that the full slate will drop this Thursday, May 14th, and for Washington Commanders fans, the anticipation is already building.
Just one year ago, the Commanders were riding high off a 12-5 season and a thrilling run to the NFC Championship Game—their first in over three decades. With young superstar quarterback Jayden Daniels under center, Washington became a prime-time darling, earning five night games and eight standalone appearances, including a Christmas Day showdown. But the 2025 season took a painful turn. Injuries piled up, and the team stumbled to a 5-12 finish.
So, what does 2026 hold for the Commanders? Will the national spotlight dim after a tough year, or will the promise of Daniels keep Washington in prime-time conversations? We're tracking every leak, rumor, and confirmed matchup as they surface.
One thing we already know: The Commanders are heading across the pond. Washington will serve as the home team for a London game in 2026. The opponent and exact date are still under wraps, but we'll have the details as soon as they emerge.
Let's break down what's been leaked so far. Last season, Washington opened at home against the New York Giants. That won't happen in 2026—the Giants are instead scheduled to face the Dallas Cowboys in the season opener on Sunday Night Football. That means the Commanders will be looking at a different Week 1 opponent.
As for Thanksgiving? Don't expect a trip to Dallas. The Cowboys will host the Philadelphia Eagles for their annual holiday game. And since Washington doesn't face the Detroit Lions this season, a trip to Motown on Turkey Day is off the table. There is still one prime-time Thanksgiving game left to be announced, and while the Giants and Commanders have played in that slot before, it feels like a long shot this time around. Still, we'll keep you posted.
With the full schedule just days away, the rumor mill is heating up. Stay tuned as we track every development—from leaked matchups to confirmed kickoff times—so you can plan your game day gear and get ready to cheer on the Burgundy and Gold.