Get ready, football fans—the NFL Week 1 schedule for the 2026 season has been leaked just ahead of the official release on Thursday, May 14. While the league will make it official at 5 p.m. MST, insiders have already revealed the opening slate of games, and it's packed with marquee matchups.
The season kicks off with a Wednesday night showdown on September 9, as the New England Patriots travel to face the Seattle Seahawks. The excitement continues on Thursday, September 10, with a historic international game: the San Francisco 49ers take on the Los Angeles Rams in Australia. This marks another step in the NFL's global expansion, bringing the gridiron Down Under.
Sunday features a full slate of early games, including the Bears at Panthers, Bucs at Bengals, Ravens at Colts, and a must-watch clash between the Bills and Texans. Later, the Saints visit the Lions, the Jets face the Titans, and the Browns square off against the Cowboys. The prime-time slot delivers a classic NFC East rivalry as the Dallas Cowboys host the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football.
The week wraps up with a Monday night battle between the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs—a divisional showdown that could set the tone for the AFC West race.
Whether you're already planning your game-day outfit or just eager to see how the season unfolds, this leaked schedule gives you a head start. Stay tuned for the official release, but in the meantime, mark your calendars and get ready for an action-packed opening week.
