The NFL schedule is finally here, and the Denver Broncos have a blockbuster way to kick off the 2026 season. After Tuesday morning's announcement that the Broncos would face the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football, the only missing piece was the venue. Now we know: Denver will open the season on the road at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 14.

This marks a historic first. In more than 60 years and 132 matchups between these AFC West rivals, the Broncos have never started the season on the road against the Chiefs. That changes under the bright lights of prime time.

Last fall, Denver swept both games against Kansas City, proving they can hang with the division's powerhouse. But this year's opener carries extra weight. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is expected to make his return from a serious knee injury that cut his 2025 campaign short. If both teams are at full strength, this game will be the ultimate early-season measuring stick for who controls the AFC West race.

Social media wasted no time reacting to the news. Some fans love the early-season trip to Arrowhead, pointing out that a September game in Kansas City beats a December one. Others see it as a strategic advantage for Denver, especially with Mahomes' status still uncertain. A few voices grumbled that the defending division champions deserved a home opener, but most agree: if Bo Nix can lead the Broncos to another win at Arrowhead, it sets the tone for the entire season.

Whether you're gearing up for game day or just love the drama of prime-time football, this is a season opener you won't want to miss. Get your orange and blue ready—the road to the playoffs begins on Monday night.