As we inch closer to the full NFL schedule release, Arizona Cardinals fans can start crossing off some potential matchups for the 2026 season. While the official slate drops Thursday night, we already know a few key dates where Kyler Murray and company won't be playing.

Thanksgiving football is a cherished tradition, and the Dallas Cowboys always host a game on Turkey Day. This year, the FOX broadcast will feature a classic NFC East showdown between the Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles at 4:30 p.m. ET in Week 12. That means the Cardinals won't be facing either of those teams on that particular Thursday, even though they are scheduled to play both Philly and Dallas in 2026 as part of their rotation against the entire NFC East.

But that's not the only early elimination. We also know the Cardinals won't open the season against either the Cowboys or the New York Giants. Why? Because Dallas and New York are set to kick off the year in a Sunday night primetime clash at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. So, no season opener at Jerry World or the Meadowlands for Arizona.

It's a game of elimination as we piece together the puzzle, and every bit of intel helps. The Cardinals' full 2026 regular-season schedule—including all their NFC East battles—will be unveiled on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. Arizona time). Stay tuned, because we'll keep you updated with every schedule insight as it drops.