NFL Schedule Release 2026: Date, Details, and What to Know

The NFL’s never-ending calendar continues to roll on as we enter the month of May. With both the draft and free agency completed, all 32 teams are now holding rookie minicamps before OTAs begin later this month.

While we already know who each team will play—both at home and on the road—in 2026, we’re still waiting to find out when they'll play. The NFL has turned its full schedule release into a tentpole event in recent years, complete with extravagant social media posts by each team and a prime-time unveiling.

MORE: Way-Too-Early 2026 Record Predictions For All 32 Teams

So when will the 2026 schedule be released? We finally have your answer.

When will the 2026 NFL schedule be released?

On Thursday, the NFL teased that it would have a date for the schedule release soon, and by Friday, we had the date. The schedule release is officially set for next week on Thursday, May 14 at 8 p.m. ET.

A few games have already been announced, such as the 49ers and Rams playing in Australia in Week 1, but next Thursday, the entire slate of games for every team and prime time window will finally be revealed. The international slate of games is set to become public a day early on Wednesday, May 13.

What can we expect out of the 2026 NFL schedule?

The 2026 NFL schedule will bring with it endless drama and plenty of unique aspects, including:

The season starting on Wednesday, Sept. 9, hosted by the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks. Who will the Seahawks face to kick off the season?
An NFL record nine international games, including the league’s first regular season games in Australia and France
Three Thanksgiving games
A Black Friday game
Three Christmas games

Let the games begin!

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