The NFL calendar is heating up, and for football fans, there's no bigger spring event than the release of the regular season schedule. With the 2026 NFL Draft now in the rearview mirror, all eyes turn to mid-May when the league will announce the exact dates and times for every game. It's the moment when offseason speculation turns into real anticipation, and fans can finally start mapping out their season.

For the Denver Broncos, that schedule release is especially intriguing. We already know who they'll play in 2026, but the "when" is what gets the heart racing. Here's a quick look at their slate:

Home: Chiefs, Chargers, Raiders, Bills, Dolphins, Jaguars, Seahawks, Rams
Away: Chiefs, Chargers, Raiders, Patriots, Jets, Steelers, 49ers, Cardinals, Panthers

If the Broncos open the season at home, there's a can't-miss opportunity for the NFL to kick things off with a bang. Remember last year's divisional round showdown between Denver and the Buffalo Bills? It was one of the most electrifying games of the entire season, ending in a 33-30 overtime thriller that had fans on both sides holding their breath.

The defining moment came on a controversial interception by Broncos cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian. Bills fans will tell you it was a catch by Brandin Cooks, but the officials ruled otherwise. That turnover set up Denver's game-winning field goal, ending Buffalo's Super Bowl hopes in dramatic fashion.

But the excitement turned to heartbreak for Broncos Country just moments later. Quarterback Bo Nix broke his ankle on one of the final plays of the game, sidelining him for the rest of the postseason and ultimately derailing Denver's championship run. It was a brutal reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL.

Now, with the 2026 season on the horizon, the Broncos have a chance to rewrite that story. A primetime opener against the Bills would be the perfect way to reignite that rivalry and give fans a game they won't want to miss. Whether you're stocking up on new gear for game day or just planning your watch party, this is one matchup that promises to deliver from the very first snap.