When does the 2026 NFL season start? Who is Patrick Mahomes' Chiefs playing in week 1
The 2026 NFL season opens with an unusual Wednesday kickoff as the Seattle Seahawks host the New England Patriots, followed by a historic international clash between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne.
Week 1 stretches across multiple days, highlighting the league’s expanding global footprint.
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs face a demanding schedule after a difficult 6-11 season, with Patrick Mahomes’ recovery from an ACL injury shaping early expectations.
With tough road games and key home fixtures, the Chiefs’ season hinges on fitness, timing, and consistency in a highly competitive AFC landscape.
- 2026 NFL schedule: Dates, times, TV, streaming, matchups for all 272 games CBS Sports —
- NFL kicks off 2026 season with Super Bowl rematch Boston Globe —
- NFL loads 2026 Christmas slate with Packers-Bears, Bills-Broncos and Rams-Seahawks CBS Sports —
- How to watch the NFL in 2026: Full guide to streaming, cable and TV schedule The New York Times —
- NFL schedule release: Patriots-Seahawks Super Bowl rematch will kick off 2026 season The Guardian —