2026 NFL Schedule Leaks: Biggest Games & International Matchups

The NFL has began revealing select games and international matchups ahead of the official release of the full 2026 regular-season schedule, creating some early buzz around several marquee showdowns.

The league is once again staggering announcements prior to the full release of the schedule, with broadcast partners and teams confirming high-profile games.

The complete NFL schedule is scheduled to be officially released on May 14, continuing the league’s annual prime-time rollout event that has become one of the most anticipated parts of the offseason. No doubt, those who enjoy NFL betting will also be taking note.

This season’s schedule release comes following a busy offseason that included the NFL Draft, major free-agent movement, and continued expansion of the league’s international footprint.

Bigger Games Announced So Far

One of the first major games revealed was the Week 1 Sunday Night Football matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants. The NFC East rivals are reportedly set to open the Sunday night slate in a nationally televised game on NBC and Peacock.

Another notable early leak involves the Buffalo Bills hosting the Detroit Lions on Thursday Night Football in Week 2. Both teams entered the offseason among the early Super Bowl contenders, making the matchup one of the most anticipated games announced so far.

Rumors have also surfaced involving Thanksgiving and holiday games, including that the San Francisco 49ers could appear in a marquee Thanksgiving matchup. The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks are also expected to host the annual NFL Kickoff Game on Sept. 9 to officially open the season.

International Games Continue Expanding

The NFL’s international expansion remains one of the biggest storylines surrounding the schedule. The league has already confirmed a record nine international games for the upcoming season.

Among the headline international matchups announced so far:

• San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia
  • The NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Australia is scheduled for Sept. 11 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
• Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • The matchup will reportedly be played at Maracanã Stadium as part of the NFL’s continued Brazil expansion.
• New Orleans Saints in Paris, France
  • The Saints are scheduled to host the NFL’s first regular-season game in Paris at Stade de France.
• Detroit Lions in Munich, Germany
  • Germany continues to serve as a major NFL market as Munich hosts another regular-season contest.
• Atlanta Falcons in Madrid, Spain
  • Madrid joins the growing list of European cities hosting NFL games.

The league is also expected to stage games in London and Mexico City as part of the international slate.

Full Schedule Release Nearing

The NFL’s full schedule release has evolved into a league-wide media event, with individual teams producing social media videos and broadcast specials dedicated to unveiling schedules.

The complete 272-game regular-season schedule will reveal holiday games, primetime matchups, bye weeks, and late-season divisional battles that could shape the NFL playoff race.

As more leaks continue emerging in the days leading up to May 14, anticipation is building for what could become one of the NFL’s most globally focused schedules yet, highlighted by expanded international games and several early marquee matchups.