The 2026 NFL schedule release is a global affair, with nine international games spanning four continents and seven countries. The league's most ambitious and lengthy journey to date promises to be a spectacle, with high-profile matchups and star-studded teams. From Melbourne to Madrid, the NFL is bringing the action to fans worldwide, offering a unique and exciting experience. Here's a breakdown of the key international games and their implications.
Melbourne Cricket Ground: Rams vs. 49ers
In what could be the highlight of the season, the NFC West rivals and 2025 playoff teams face off in Australia. The Rams, led by reigning MVP Matthew Stafford and a galaxy of all-stars, aim for a Super Bowl after a strong NFC Championship run. The 49ers, with the returns of key players like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, will look to keep up with Stafford and his offense. This game is a must-watch for fantasy football enthusiasts, as the 49ers' Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey will look to match wits with Stafford and his receiving corps.
Maracanã Stadium: Ravens vs. Cowboys
For the third straight year, the NFL returns to Brazil, this time with a matchup between the Ravens and Cowboys. The Ravens, led by Lamar Jackson, will look to even the score against Dak Prescott and a revamped Dallas defense. This game is a rare interconference matchup, and the Cowboys' recent success against Baltimore makes it an intriguing contest. With both teams benefiting from games of tape, this Week 3 clash could be a pivotal moment in the season.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: Commanders vs. Colts
Starting the NFL's three-week stay in the United Kingdom, both the Commanders and Colts are in desperate need of bounce-back campaigns. The Commanders, led by Jayden Daniels, will look to build on their Cinderella story from 2024, while the Colts, hoping to have Daniel Jones back at quarterback, aim to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season. This Week 4 matchup in London promises to be a consequential chapter in both teams' journeys.
Wembley Stadium: Eagles vs. Jaguars
The Eagles haven't traveled to Jacksonville to play the Jaguars since 2010, and that streak is now destined to extend beyond the 2026 season. Instead, Philly will visit the Jags' home away from home in London. This Week 5 matchup will mark the second time the two squads have played each other at Wembley Stadium, with the Eagles emerging victorious in 2018. The Jaguars, led by Liam Coen, will look to build on their strong 2025 season, while the Eagles, seeking to rediscover their mojo, will aim to make a statement.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: Jaguars vs. Texans
As has become custom, Jacksonville will remain in London for back-to-back tilts, this time taking the tube to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a vital divisional matchup with the Texans. The Jaguars and Texans have taken turns capturing the AFC South since 2022, and this Week 6 clash promises to be a consequential chapter in their rivalry. With both teams riding high, the Jaguars will look to maintain their momentum, while the Texans, seeking to break their Divisional Round drought, will aim to make a statement.
Stade de France: Steelers vs. Saints
After hosting the NFL's debut in Dublin last year, the Steelers will play the Saints in the league's first trip to Paris. The Steelers' quarterback situation remains a mystery, with youngsters Will Howard and Drew Allar in house, and the annual question of Aaron Rodgers' status hanging over the team. The Saints, led by Tyler Shough, will look to make a statement in this star-studded affair, which marks the Steelers' third international game and the Saints' fourth.
Bernabéu Stadium: Falcons vs. Bengals
When the NFL descends upon Madrid for the league's second trip to Spain, it will do so with an assortment of young talent on the marquee. The Falcons, led by Bijan Robinson, will host Joe Burrow and the Bengals. Robinson, following his first All-Pro season, will aim to propel Atlanta back to prominence, while the Bengals, seeking a rebound from a disappointing 2025 season, will look to make a statement against the Falcons' young talent.
FC Bayern Munich Stadium: Patriots vs. Lions
Subbing out a trip to the Motor City for Munich, the Patriots have been announced as the Lions' Week 10 opponent in Germany. The Patriots, led by Mike Vrabel and an MVP runner-up in Drake Maye, will look to continue their impressive run, while the Lions, led by Jared Goff and a talented offense, will aim to test the limits of New England's defense. With Amon-Ra St. Brown's impending participation, this game promises to be a thrilling contest.
Estadio Banorte: 49ers vs. Vikings
Bookending the International Games slate, the 49ers will mark the NFL's return to Mexico for the first time since 2022, when San Francisco defeated Arizona at Estadio Azteca. The 49ers, led by Kyle Shanahan and ready for the return of George Kittle, will face Kevin O'Connell and a Vikings team that played twice in Europe a year ago. With the Vikings having won each of the last two matchups against San Francisco, this game promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the international schedule.
