The NFL schedule release is a masterclass in suspense, and for Seattle Seahawks fans, the wait to find out who they'll face in Week 1 continues. While the reigning Super Bowl champions are set for an exciting 2026 season, one thing is clear: Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs won't be kicking things off in Seattle on opening night.

The league has confirmed that ESPN's first Monday Night Football game will feature the Chiefs taking on the Denver Broncos—though whether that clash will be in Kansas City or Denver remains unannounced. Both teams are nursing quarterback injuries: Mahomes is recovering from an ACL tear suffered last December, while Broncos rookie Bo Nix is rehabbing a broken ankle from the AFC Divisional Round. If either QB isn't ready, we could see Jarrett Stidham or Justin Fields under center to wrap up Week 1.

For Seattle, this means Kenneth Walker III's return to face his former team will have to wait. The Seahawks won't be hosting the Chiefs, Rams, 49ers, Cowboys, or Giants on September 9. That leaves just four home game options: the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots.

Realistically, it's not going to be the Cardinals—a divisional matchup feels too low-key for opening night. And while the Chargers bring some star power from L.A., they're not the box-office draw the league typically books for a prime-time kickoff. That narrows the field to two compelling candidates: the Chicago Bears, with their rising young talent, or the New England Patriots, a team steeped in history and always a ratings magnet.

Whichever team it is, Seahawks fans can expect a high-energy start to the season. With the schedule dropping soon, the countdown to September football is officially on.