The countdown to NFL kickoff is officially on! With the 2026 NFL Draft wrapped up and the schedule now released, football fans have plenty to look forward to when the season finally gets underway. But mark your calendars—this year's opening week comes with a twist that hasn't been seen in over a decade.

For the first time in 14 years, the NFL season will kick off on a Wednesday instead of the traditional Thursday night. The Seattle Seahawks, fresh off their Super Bowl 60 victory, will host the New England Patriots at Lumen Field on Wednesday, September 9, at 8:20 p.m. ET. It's a fitting rematch that gives the defending champs a chance to celebrate their title in front of a home crowd. The game will air live on NBC and Peacock.

But that's just the beginning. Week 1 is packed with 16 matchups, including four standalone games that are sure to keep fans glued to their screens through Monday, September 14, when the Kansas City Chiefs take the field. Whether you're planning your game-day outfit or just counting down the days, this season promises plenty of excitement right from the start.