The NFL schedule release is finally here, and for Arizona Cardinals fans, the wait is almost over. The league will unveil the full 2026 slate on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. Arizona time) across NFL Network, ESPN2, and streaming platforms. While the Cardinals will share their schedule through social media and local outlets, a flurry of rumors and leaks have already started to paint a picture of what's to come.
Here's what we know so far about the Redbirds' upcoming season, based on confirmed game placements and early whispers.
Week 1 Exclusions: The Cardinals won't face the 49ers, Rams, Chiefs, Broncos, Cowboys, or Giants in the opening week. Why? The 49ers and Rams are heading to Melbourne for a season-opening showdown, while the Cowboys and Giants kick off Sunday night, and the Broncos and Chiefs take the Monday night spotlight.
International Games: Arizona will stay stateside in 2026—no international trips to London, Munich, or elsewhere are on the docket for the Cards.
Key Weeks to Watch:
- Week 2: No Lions matchup, as Detroit plays a Thursday night road game against the Bills in their new stadium.
- Week 3: No Cowboys, since Dallas faces the Ravens in Rio de Janeiro.
- Week 7: No Saints, as New Orleans takes on the Steelers in Paris.
- Week 11: No 49ers, with San Francisco meeting the Vikings in Mexico City.
- Week 12: No Rams (they play the Packers in a Wednesday Thanksgiving Eve game) and no Cowboys or Eagles (they clash on Thanksgiving).
First Leak: The biggest rumor so far comes from insider OzzyNFL, who accurately predicted international matchups earlier this year. According to the leak, the Cardinals are set to face the New York Giants on the road in Week 4. If true, it would be a key early-season test for Arizona.
Stay tuned for the official release—expect more surprises and a full breakdown of the Cardinals' path to the playoffs. Whether you're planning game-day gear or just counting down to kickoff, this schedule is shaping up to be a wild ride.