The Baltimore Ravens are set to kick off their 2026 NFL season with a schedule that offers both promise and challenges—and for fans of purple and black, the early outlook is worth celebrating. While Lamar Jackson continues to draw intense scrutiny, one thing remains undeniable: the Ravens are must-see TV. They’ve landed four primetime games this season, a testament to their enduring marketability and star power.

However, not every detail is perfect. The Ravens’ bye week doesn’t arrive until Week 13, meaning depth, health, and stamina will be tested late into the season. That’s a tough ask for any team, especially one undergoing significant changes. But the NFL schedule makers may have quietly done Baltimore a solid.

The first seven games of the season come against teams that missed the playoffs last year. That’s a golden opportunity to build early momentum. While there’s no such thing as an “easy win” in the NFL—every roster is filled with professionals capable of pulling off an upset—this stretch could serve as the perfect launchpad for a fast start. If the Ravens can avoid repeating last year’s 0-1 opening, they could find themselves favored in all seven of those early contests.

Starting strong is critical. Falling into an early hole creates pressure, fuels overreactions, and can derail promising seasons before the leaves change. For Baltimore, that urgency is amplified by a major organizational transition. Jesse Minter begins his first season as head coach, Declan Doyle takes over play-calling duties, and Anthony Weaver steps in as defensive coordinator. A hot start wouldn’t just be nice—it could set the tone for a new era.

So while the late bye week is less than ideal, the Ravens have every reason to feel optimistic about the opening stretch. Gear up, Ravens fans—this season is shaping up to be one you won’t want to miss.