2026 NFL Regular Season Kickoff

The 2026 NFL regular season is finally upon us.

Let’s dive into the details.

While the next few hours will surely be filled with breakdowns of various teams’ schedule release videos, it’s really the first week that captures our attention. Which games are must-watches? And, well, which ones might not make the top of your list?

We’re gearing up for some NFL action.

Of course, there’s a bit of a revenge angle for Robert Saleh, but is that enough to really sway the excitement?

This matchup could feature Kirk Cousins against Malik Willis, or even Fernando Mendoza versus Malik Willis. Either way, it’s one to keep your phone handy for.

How about Tua Tagovailoa going up against Aaron Rodgers?

And what about Michael Penix Jr. versus Drew Aller?

Honestly, it’s hard to say if any of these should be at the top of your watchlist for week one.

Who’s actually looking forward to this, aside from maybe Seattle fans?

We just saw that game not too long ago. It didn’t go well. The Patriots crossed the 50-yard line on their first possession only to be stuck in their own territory until the fourth quarter. Unless you’re a Seahawks fan, the highlight was probably Bad Bunny’s halftime show.

Everyone gets the non-conference games for playoff tiebreakers, but do we really want to rewatch that showdown anytime soon? Especially not for opening night.

Cardinals vs. Chargers

Jeremiah Love’s debut could be fun, but let’s be real—this might turn into a blowout.

NFC East matchups will keep appearing until something changes.

Yes, it’ll be John Harbaugh’s first game against the Giants on the Island, and you’ll likely tune in. But I don’t see this game needing to be any higher on the priority list.

Buccaneers at Bengals

The Bengals have high hopes to return to the playoffs, as long as they stay healthy this year. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers are trying to recover from a rough second half last season.

Still, we’re in a “wait and see” phase with both teams. Looking at the early Sunday schedule, there are definitely more intriguing matchups out there.

This game lands in the middle because—well, we’re not sure who’s going to be under center for either team.

Patrick Mahomes and Bo Nix are coming back from injuries. If both quarterbacks are in by Week 1, this game will easily climb the ranks. But should it end up being Justin Fields against Jarrett Stidham, it might dip off the list altogether.

For now, let’s stay neutral. Check back in August.

The Browns had a solid draft, I think.

On the flip side, I’m not convinced about the Jaguars’ decisions.

But hey, that’s why they play the game, right?

I mean, why is this game so hyped? It’s all about Sonny Styles.

This offense with a dynamic linebacker taking on Jalen Hurts? It should be entertaining.

Then there’s the return of Jaden Daniels, and this game is scheduled for a late Sunday afternoon slot—definitely one to watch.

The Saints could surprise us this year, and I see Detroit bouncing back after a miss in 2025.

This is certainly a matchup to keep an eye on.

It’s an early test for both teams. With Daniel Jones coming back, can the Colts recapture their early 2026 form? What will the Ravens look like under new head coach Jesse Minter? This game could set the tone for two playoff-bound teams.

Who will be leading the charge for Minnesota when that clock starts?

I have a thought about that.

More than just the JJ McCarthy versus Kyler Murray discussion, it’s really about Jordan Love facing off against Brian Flores. How will Love and Green Bay’s offense manage Flores’ defense?

Are we too excited about this matchup?

Sure, we have last year’s playoff teams clashing. But if the Bears want to level up from simply being contenders to actual champions, they need to win games like this, especially on the road. The Panthers also have to secure home wins to grow as real contenders. Plus, it’s the first meeting between Bryce Young and Caleb Williams, so we’re curious about Carolina’s defense upgrades.

And don’t forget about the young offensive minds leading both teams, Ben Johnson and Dave Canales.

We have two AFC playoff teams from last season, both looking to make it back. Yet both have substantial questions. Was Joe Brady the right choice for Buffalo? Did the Bills surround Josh Allen with enough talent? How improved is the Texans’ offensive line? Can CJ Stroud recover from a rough end to last year?

This promises to be an exciting preview of a potential AFC Championship matchup.

Two playoff teams from last season are set to face each other, highlighting some top offensive minds right at the start of the year.

And, oh—the first NFL regular season game in Australia?

Yeah, this one’s definitely the game of the week.