The Dallas Cowboys' 2026 schedule is starting to take shape, and the leaks are coming in hot. According to reports, the Cowboys will kick off their season on Sunday Night Football against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on September 13. It's the second straight year Dallas opens with a primetime NFC East showdown, following their 2025 Week 1 trip to Philadelphia. This marks the eighth time in 15 seasons these two rivals meet in the opening week—a testament to the NFL's love for this heated division matchup.
The schedule reveal doesn't stop there. The Cowboys are also set to travel to Rio de Janeiro for a Week 3 clash with the Baltimore Ravens, adding an international flavor to their season. And, as tradition dictates, they'll host their beloved Thanksgiving game at AT&T Stadium. With the NFL planning to announce all international games on Wednesday, expect more leaks to trickle in before Thursday's full schedule release.
For Cowboys fans, there's an extra reason to feel optimistic about Week 1. The Giants may be without star wide receiver Malik Nabers, who is recovering from a torn ACL that ended his 2025 season. Giants insider Jordan Raanan recently cast doubt on Nabers' availability for the opener, suggesting on the Giants Nation Show that "Week 1 is in serious question" and that his best play might not come until four to six weeks into the season. That's a significant blow to New York's offense, especially against a Cowboys secondary that's been retooled in the offseason.
Adding to the Giants' challenges, they'll be breaking in two top-10 draft picks from the 2026 NFL Draft: ED/LB Arvell Reese and OT Francis Mauigoa. While both are promising talents, facing them in their NFL debuts gives Dallas a clear edge—better to catch rookies early than after they've settled into the league. Plus, the Giants are adjusting to a new coaching staff, which could take time to gel.
As the schedule leaks pile up, one thing is clear: the Cowboys have a prime opportunity to start strong. Whether it's the primetime spotlight, the international stage, or the Thanksgiving tradition, Dallas is set for a thrilling 2026 campaign. Stay tuned for more updates as the NFL officially drops the full schedule.