The complete NFL schedule for 2026 was unveiled on Thursday. Here’s what the Jets’ schedule looks like:
3 Toughest Games
Week 4: At the Bears
This might be the Jets’ final trip to Soldier Field, as the Bears are contemplating a move to a new stadium. Currently, the Jets hold a record of 2 wins and 4 losses against them. But the real challenge for the Jets will come from facing fierce competitors like Caleb Williams. It’s also interesting to note that both teams’ coaches, Ben Johnson for the Bears and Aaron Glenn for the Jets, have a history as coordinators together at the Lions, adding extra tension to this matchup.
Week 6: At Patriots
The Patriots reclaimed the top spot in their division last season, while the Jets found themselves just above them in the standings. Geno Smith, who famously upset the Patriots during his rookie season, will be looking to replicate that success as he returns to the Jets.
Week 18: At Bills
For the second consecutive year, the Jets will wrap up their season in frigid Buffalo. Since 2019, they have been unable to secure a win there. With the Bills inaugurating a new stadium, the Jets will face Josh Allen in what promises to be a challenging game, especially given their recent losses where they were outscored by significant margins.
3 Easy Games
Week 5: vs. Browns
The Jets defeated the Browns one of the three times last season, and they appear to be the stronger team on paper this year. The big question for Cleveland is about their quarterback—could it be Deshaun Watson, Shedule Sanders, or someone else entirely? This game also represents an opportunity for the Jets to find their footing under a new coordinator.
Week 7: vs. Dolphins
With Miami in the early stages of a rebuild, there are noticeable gaps in their roster. This might provide a solid advantage for the Jets when they play at MetLife Stadium. Additionally, it’s a revenge match for new Jets safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who made the switch from the Dolphins just a few months ago.
Week 8: vs. Raiders
This game brings up a “what if” scenario. Just imagine if the Jets had lost to the Falcons last season—instead of getting that No. 1 pick, they could be facing quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who ended up with the Raiders. He might not play, but if he does, Glenn’s defense will need to keep him on his toes.
3 Notable Matches
Week 1: At Titans
This matchup serves as a revenge game for Robert Saleh, the Jets’ former coach, now leading Tennessee. The potential for nostalgia is strong, but this could also work in the Jets’ favor, particularly with a new coaching staff in Tennessee that might require time to gel.
Week 3: At Lions
Returning to Detroit where he spent four years as defensive coordinator, Glenn will face a robust Lions offense featuring Jared Goff and Jahmil Gibbs. This game will be a true test for the Jets’ revamped defense.
Week 12: At the Dolphins
It’s been a long time since the Jets claimed victory in South Florida—back in 2014, with Geno Smith at quarterback. That game marked the end of the Rex Ryan era, so it’s been quite a while. The Jets’ performance in their division hasn’t been great, with a dismal 6-30 record in the AFC East over the last six seasons. If they have serious plans to improve, winning in the division has to start now.
When is the Bye?
The Jets won’t get a break until Week 13, which feels rather late in the season. They’ll need to stay healthy up until then, or else face a challenging second half. However, it might work out as a useful pause before the critical stretch of games.
Overall Thoughts
Interestingly, ESPN pointed out that it’s quite surprising the Jets won’t have a primetime game for the first time since 2007. It’s clear the NFL has modest expectations for the team, but the early season matchups against NFC North teams in Weeks 2-4 will be challenging. If they manage to be 2-2 after those games, that should definitely be seen as a positive. Ending the season in Buffalo again adds to their difficulties, so getting wins during October and early November, especially against the Browns, Dolphins, and Raiders, is crucial.
