The Green Bay Packers have their first four opponents for the 2026 season, and it looks like a manageable stretch—even without star edge rusher Micah Parsons likely available to start the year.
After losing five straight games to close out the 2025 season following an All-Pro campaign-ending knee injury to Parsons, the Packers are hoping for a much different start this time around. With Parsons expected to begin the season on the PUP list, the early schedule release became critical for Green Bay's planning.
Under updated PUP rules, Parsons could begin practicing as early as Week 3 and be eligible to play by Week 5 if he lands on the list to start the regular season. But he's not the only key player returning from injury. Tight end Tucker Kraft tore his ACL in November, defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt suffered a significant leg injury late that month, and offensive tackle Zach Tom needed knee surgery in early December.
So who will the Packers face during those first four weeks without their defensive anchor?
Week 1: at Minnesota Vikings (9-8 in 2025, projected 8.5 wins in 2026)
Week 2: at New York Jets (3-14 in 2025, projected 5.5 wins)
Week 3: vs. Atlanta Falcons (8-9 in 2025, projected 6.5 wins)
Week 4: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9 in 2025, projected 8.5 wins)
None of these four teams made the postseason in 2025, and none are projected to finish with a winning record according to sportsbooks. The Vikings, Jets, and Falcons could all be starting new quarterbacks, adding further uncertainty for Green Bay's opponents.
According to analyst Warren Sharp, the Packers face the third easiest strength of schedule over the first four weeks based on forecasted win totals. While three of the four games are on the road—including a tough opener in the loud environment of Minnesota and a potentially sweltering early October game in Tampa Bay—these are four of the most winnable matchups on Green Bay's entire schedule.
The NFL did the Packers a favor. A fast start is within reach, even without Parsons likely available to suit up.