The 2026 NFL schedule is dropping Thursday night, and while leaks are already making the rounds, one thing is clear: the Houston Texans are looking at one of the lightest slates in the league next season. Coming off a year where their fierce defense finally grabbed national headlines, fans are buzzing to see this squad under the bright lights.
Last season, the Texans earned four primetime games—two Monday Night Football matchups, one Sunday Night Football showdown, and a Thursday Night Football clash, plus a Saturday day game against the LA Chargers. But with a revamped roster and a defense that's been getting major offseason love, the question is: how many more primetime slots will Houston land in 2026?
To get a handle on that, let's look at the league's primetime pecking order from last year. The Kansas City Chiefs led the pack with a whopping eight primetime appearances, including an international game. The league average was 3.5 per team, but it was a mixed bag—teams like the Saints, Browns, and Titans got zero, while 10 teams scored at least five. The Cowboys were second with six, proving that star power still drives the schedule.
We already know the Texans are heading overseas to face the Jacksonville Jaguars. That won't count as a primetime game, but it's still a marquee AFC South battle between two playoff teams from 2025. So, how many primetime slots should Houston expect? I'm predicting five, with a mix of NFC East and AFC North heavyweights.
Here's my projected primetime lineup for the Texans in 2026:
Houston Texans vs. Dallas Cowboys – Monday Night Football
This in-state rivalry is a primetime natural. The Cowboys and Texans haven't met often, but when they do, it's must-see TV. Expect a shootout under the Monday night lights.
Houston Texans at Philadelphia Eagles – Sunday Night Football
The Eagles are perennial contenders, and a trip to the Linc on Sunday night would test Houston's grit. This is a potential playoff preview.
Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers – Thursday Night Football
Steelers-Texans on a short week? Yes, please. Pittsburgh's physical style against Houston's swarming defense is a recipe for chaos.
Houston Texans vs. Baltimore Ravens – Sunday Night Football
Lamar Jackson vs. C.J. Stroud? Sign us up. This AFC clash could decide playoff seeding, making it a perfect Sunday night headliner.
Houston Texans at Green Bay Packers – Monday Night Football
A trip to Lambeau Field on Monday night is as iconic as it gets. The frozen tundra and a young Texans team? That's primetime gold.
As for the full schedule, Week 18 is typically reserved for AFC South rivalries. The Texans have ended their season against either the Colts or Titans every year since 2019, so expect another divisional showdown to close out 2026.
Gear up for what promises to be an electrifying season—whether you're watching from the stands or your living room, make sure you're repping the Texans in style.