The New England Patriots are reportedly set to kick off the 2026 NFL season with a blockbuster matchup that fans won't want to miss. According to Barstool podcast host Kirk Minihane, the league is planning a Super Bowl rematch between the Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at Lumen Field in Seattle.

While the official 2026 NFL schedule won't drop until Thursday, this rumored opener has all the makings of a prime-time spectacle. Pitting the reigning AFC champions against the NFC champions is a classic move by the league to generate immediate buzz. For Patriots fans, it's a chance at redemption after the team's tough 29-13 loss to the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX.

New England enters this game with plenty of storylines. The team is looking to bounce back from that humbling defeat and move past a chaotic offseason that saw head coach Mike Vrabel caught up in a personal scandal involving an extramarital affair with former NFL reporter Dianna Russini. Expect Vrabel and his players to face a hostile crowd in Seattle, but the Patriots have reason for confidence—they went a perfect 9-0 on the road last season and will aim to extend that streak.

Adding to the intrigue, this could be the debut of wide receiver A.J. Brown in a Patriots uniform, if trade rumors from the Philadelphia Eagles prove true. Brown's arrival would instantly bolster New England's offense, giving fans even more reason to tune in.

This game also marks a scheduling rarity: it's only the second time the NFL regular season will open on a Wednesday, as recent years have featured Thursday night kickoffs. The action starts at 8:20 p.m. ET, airing live on NBC and Peacock. Whether you're a Patriots fan hoping for revenge or a neutral viewer craving top-tier football, this matchup is shaping up to be one for the ages.