Mark your calendars, football fans—the wait is almost over. The 2026 NFL schedule is set to drop, and it's time to start planning your game-day wardrobe and tailgate menus.

While teams have known their opponents since the end of the 2025 regular season, the full calendar puzzle comes together this week. Some key dates are already locked in, including a record nine international games. The action kicks off with a historic matchup: the 49ers vs. Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday, September 10—a slot normally reserved for the reigning Super Bowl champion. That means the regular season will actually start a day early, on Wednesday evening in Seattle, as the Seahawks begin their title defense.

For the full breakdown of every game, prime-time showdown, and bye week, the NFL will release the complete 2026 schedule for all 32 teams on Thursday, May 14, at 8 p.m. ET. Whether you're planning a road trip or just want to know when your favorite team plays, this is the moment you've been waiting for.

You can catch the schedule release live on NFL Network and ESPN2, with both channels offering analysis and highlighting the biggest matchups. For cord-cutters, the ESPN2 coverage streams on the ESPN app, and fubo carries both channels—plus a free trial for new subscribers so you can test the waters before committing.

As you gear up for the season, keep an eye on the strength of schedule rankings, which are based on 2025 win percentages. The toughest schedule is ranked No. 1, while the easiest sits at No. 32. Now's the time to stock up on your team's gear and get ready for what promises to be an unforgettable 2026 campaign.