The Cincinnati Bengals are already making headlines for the 2026 season, with a major international matchup now on the calendar. The team is set to face the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9 in Madrid, Spain—a game that promises to bring a global spotlight to both squads. But as the NFL prepares for its full schedule release on May 14, one big question lingers: Will the Bengals automatically get a Week 10 bye after their trip across the Atlantic?

Not so fast. While it's become a common assumption that teams playing overseas get a bye the following week, the NFL's scheduling rules have evolved. According to league operations, schedule-makers now consider a three-week window around international games to ease the travel burden—but a bye is no longer a guarantee. Teams can request it, but other factors often come into play, from divisional matchups to TV slots.

This shift reflects the growing complexity of the NFL's global schedule. In 2026 alone, the league has lined up games in Australia, Brazil, France, Mexico, Germany, and three in England. For the Bengals, a Madrid game in November adds an exciting layer to their season, but fans shouldn't bank on an automatic week off just yet.

Whether you're gearing up for game day in Spain or cheering from home, make sure your Bengals gear is ready for every snap of the journey.