The NFL officially unveils its 2026 schedule on Thursday, May 14th, and for the Denver Broncos, this year's slate is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory. After clinching the AFC West for the first time since 2015, the Broncos are entering a new era—one that comes with a first-place schedule and sky-high expectations.
While some critics predict a step back due to the tougher opponents, head coach Sean Payton and the front office have made it clear: they believe this team is a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Running through this gauntlet of opponents, they argue, will only sharpen the team for the ultimate prize.
Here's a look at the teams the Broncos will face this season:
Home:
Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Rams, Jacksonville Jaguars
Away:
Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers
On paper, this is an incredibly difficult road. But after reaching the AFC Championship Game last season and boasting one of the league's most talented rosters, the NFL is likely to place the Broncos in several marquee matchups under the national spotlight.
With that in mind, here are some early predictions for the schedule release:
Week 1: Broncos vs. Bills – A Major Holiday Rematch
This idea has been gaining traction, and for good reason. The Broncos and Bills played one of the most dramatic games of last season—a divisional-round overtime thriller that ended with a controversial finish and the heartbreaking loss of quarterback Bo Nix to a broken ankle. A season-opening rematch would be explosive, emotional, and an instant classic waiting to happen.
Week 6: Broncos at Chargers – Thursday Night Football
A prime-time divisional showdown under the lights in Los Angeles. The Chargers are always dangerous, and a Thursday night game in Week 6 would give both teams a chance to measure their playoff mettle early in the season.
Whether you're gearing up for game day or just looking to rep your favorite team, the 2026 season promises to be one for the ages. Stay tuned for the official release—and get ready to suit up.