As the NFL schedule release approaches, a familiar tradition is brewing for the Minnesota Vikings. According to a report from Ben Goessling of the Minnesota Star-Tribune, the Vikings are set to close the 2026 regular season at home against the Chicago Bears, in a Week 18 matchup at U.S. Bank Stadium.

For longtime Vikings fans, this feels like déjà vu. From 2016 to 2021—the first six seasons at U.S. Bank Stadium—the Bears were the final home opponent each year. In five of those six seasons, the game also served as the regular-season finale. The only exception came in 2020, when the Vikings played two road games after hosting Chicago.

With Week 18 reserved exclusively for divisional games, this leak also confirms that the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions will face off in the season's final week. Which team hosts that contest remains unknown, as schedule details are still trickling in.

The big question for Vikings fans: will there be playoff stakes on the line when Chicago visits? After a season of ups and downs, ending at home against a division rival with postseason implications would be a thrilling way to wrap up the year. For now, we can only wait and hope.

Stay tuned as more schedule leaks emerge ahead of Thursday's official release. And if you're already thinking about what to wear for that potential playoff-clinching game, our latest Vikings gear has you covered—from game-day jerseys to cold-weather essentials for that December night at U.S. Bank Stadium.