The 2026 NFL preseason officially begins with Week 1, giving fans their first extended look at rookies, free-agent additions, and quarterback competitions ahead of the regular season. Following the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, all 32 NFL teams will be in action as coaches evaluate their rosters before final cuts.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 NFL Preseason Week 1 schedule, including dates, marquee matchups, and how to watch.
NFL Preseason Week 1 Schedule (2026)
Thursday, August 13
- Green Bay Packers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
- Detroit Lions vs. Cincinnati Bengals
- Indianapolis Colts vs. New England Patriots
- Arizona Cardinals vs. Las Vegas Raiders
- Los Angeles Chargers vs. Houston Texans
- Tennessee Titans vs. San Francisco 49ers
Friday, August 14
- Denver Broncos vs. Atlanta Falcons
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New York Jets
- Miami Dolphins vs. Washington Commanders
Saturday, August 15
- Cleveland Browns vs. Chicago Bears
- Minnesota Vikings vs. New York Giants
- Carolina Panthers vs. Buffalo Bills
- Jacksonville Jaguars vs. New Orleans Saints
- Los Angeles Rams vs. Kansas City Chiefs
- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Baltimore Ravens
- Dallas Cowboys vs. Seattle Seahawks
What to Watch During NFL Preseason Week 1
Although preseason results do not count toward the regular-season standings, Week 1 offers plenty of storylines for fans and analysts, including:
- Rookie NFL Draft picks making their professional debuts.
- Quarterback battles for starting and backup jobs.
- Veteran free-agent acquisitions appearing with their new teams.
- Coaches evaluating depth chart positions ahead of roster cuts.
- Special teams competitions and young players fighting for roster spots.
Many starters are expected to play limited snaps, giving fans an opportunity to watch the league’s newest talent in game action.
How to Watch NFL Preseason Week 1
NFL Preseason Week 1 games will be televised primarily on local broadcast affiliates, with select contests carried nationally on NFL Network. Fans can also stream many games through NFL+, local streaming providers, or participating TV services depending on regional availability.
NFL Network is also expected to replay every preseason game throughout the week, allowing fans to catch matchups they may have missed.
Why NFL Preseason Matters
While preseason wins and losses are quickly forgotten, these games often determine which players earn a place on the 53-man roster. Coaches use the preseason to evaluate young talent, experiment with offensive and defensive schemes, and prepare their teams for the start of the regular season.
For fans, Week 1 represents the first meaningful football action since the offseason and provides an early glimpse at each team’s outlook for the 2026 campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does NFL Preseason Week 1 begin?
NFL Preseason Week 1 begins on Thursday, August 13, 2026, one week after the annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Game.
Which teams play during NFL Preseason Week 1?
All 32 NFL teams participate during Week 1 of the preseason, with games scheduled from August 13 through August 15.
Where can I watch NFL preseason games?
Most games air on local television stations, while select matchups are available nationally on NFL Network. Streaming options include NFL+ and participating television providers.
Final Thoughts
NFL Preseason Week 1 marks the beginning of the journey toward the 2026 regular season. Whether you’re following your favorite team’s rookie class, monitoring quarterback competitions, or simply excited for football’s return, the opening week of preseason provides plenty of reasons to tune in before the games start counting in September.