The wait for football is almost over. The 2026 NFL season officially kicks off on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, with a marquee primetime matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Unlike most recent seasons that have opened on a Thursday night, the NFL is beginning the 2026 campaign on a Wednesday to accommodate the league’s first-ever regular-season game in Australia later that week.
When Is the 2026 NFL Kickoff Game?
- Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
- Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
- Matchup: Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots
- Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington
- TV: NBC
- Streaming: Peacock and NFL+
The defending NFC West champion Seahawks will host the Patriots in front of a national television audience, officially launching the NFL’s 107th season.
Why Is the NFL Starting on a Wednesday?
The NFL scheduled the season opener on a Wednesday because the league will stage its first-ever regular-season game in Australia the following night.
On Thursday, September 10, the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams will face off in Melbourne, marking a historic expansion of the NFL’s international schedule.
Moving the Kickoff Game to Wednesday allows both showcase events to receive standalone national attention.
2026 NFL Week 1 Schedule Highlights
Following the Kickoff Game, Week 1 features several marquee matchups:
- Wednesday, Sept. 9: New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks
- Thursday, Sept. 10: San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams (Melbourne, Australia)
- Sunday, Sept. 13: Full Week 1 slate, including Sunday Night Football
- Monday, Sept. 14: Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football
The opening week sets the stage for another exciting NFL season filled with division rivalries, playoff contenders, and several nationally televised games.
How to Watch the 2026 NFL Kickoff Game
Fans can watch the Seahawks host the Patriots live on:
- TV: NBC
- Streaming: Peacock and NFL+
Kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET, with pregame coverage beginning earlier in the evening.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 NFL Season
The 2026 NFL season promises plenty of intrigue, including new coaching staffs, superstar quarterback matchups, and another race toward the playoffs and Super Bowl LXI. With an expanded international presence and a unique Wednesday opener, the league is beginning the season in historic fashion.
Whether you’re a Seahawks fan, Patriots supporter, or simply excited that football is back, September 9, 2026 officially marks the return of meaningful NFL action.
FAQs
When is the 2026 NFL Kickoff Game?
The 2026 NFL Kickoff Game will be played on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 8:20 p.m. ET.
Who plays in the 2026 NFL Kickoff Game?
The Seattle Seahawks host the New England Patriots at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Why is the NFL Kickoff Game on a Wednesday?
The league moved the opener to Wednesday because the NFL will host its first regular-season game in Australia on Thursday, September 10.
Where can I watch the 2026 NFL Kickoff Game?
The game will air on NBC and stream live on Peacock and NFL+.