The 2026 NFL season is set to begin earlier than usual, with the opening game scheduled for a Wednesday, marking a significant shift from the traditional Thursday night kickoff. This change coincides with a historic international game, as the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams will face off in Melbourne, Australia, the day after the season opener. The defending Super Bowl LX champions, the Seattle Seahawks, will host the official season opener.
Rule changes are also on the table for the upcoming 2026 season. The popular “tush push” play will remain legal for at least another season, as a proposal to ban it will not be voted on at the upcoming league meetings. However, five other rule proposals are set to be considered by the competition committee. Additionally, the league is considering bylaw changes that could allow for adjustments to the roster cutdown day to accommodate international games, a move that could impact scheduling for contests like the one in Australia.
In anticipation of the 2026 NFL Draft, mock drafts are already circulating, highlighting potential top picks. Fernando Mendoza of Indiana is heavily favored to be the No. 1 overall pick, with Arvell Reese of Ohio State also projected as a high selection. There’s also buzz around trades, with reports indicating the Broncos have acquired wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.
Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has expressed his dissatisfaction with not being signed as a starting quarterback, stating that teams were “dumb” for not offering him the role. Meanwhile, Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer is optimistic about his team’s draft prospects, believing they are set up for a “pure” draft.
