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The NFL will embark on its most ambitious global schedule ever in 2026, announcing nine international games across four continents and seven countries. The matchups, revealed ahead of the full schedule release, feature 16 teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and San Francisco 49ers, both of whom will play twice abroad. The league continues its push to grow the sport internationally with games in Australia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, and Mexico.
We start off with the 49ers and the Rams in Melbourne
The season’s international slate kicks off with a marquee NFC West showdown as the San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sept. 10. The matchup features star power on both sides, including Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, Brock Purdy, and Christian McCaffrey. The game marks the NFL’s first-ever contest in Australia and serves as the second game of the season.
Ravens and Cowboys Meet in Brazil for Week 3 Clash
The NFL returns to Brazil for the third straight year as the Baltimore Ravens take on the Dallas Cowboys at Maracanã Stadium on Sept. 27. Lamar Jackson and Dak Prescott headline a rare interconference matchup, with Baltimore holding a 6–1 all-time advantage over Dallas. The game will air on CBS, Paramount+, and NFL+.
Colts and Commanders Open London Tripleheader
London’s first of three consecutive games features the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 4. Both teams enter 2026 seeking bounce-back seasons, with Jayden Daniels and Daniel Jones expected to lead their respective offenses. The game airs on NFL Network and NFL+.
Eagles and Jaguars Renew London Connection in Week 5
Philadelphia and Jacksonville meet in London for the second time, this time at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 11. The Jaguars, coming off a 13–4 season, look to build on their momentum under Liam Coen, while the Eagles aim to regain their offensive identity after a disappointing Super Bowl defense.
Texans and Jaguars Battle in Wembley Divisional Showdown
Jacksonville stays in London for a second straight week, shifting to Wembley Stadium to face the Houston Texans on Oct. 18. The AFC South rivals split their 2025 series, and both enter 2026 with playoff expectations. C.J. Stroud and the Texans seek to break through after three straight Divisional Round exits.
Steelers and Saints Make History in Paris
The NFL’s first-ever game in Paris arrives in Week 7 as the Pittsburgh Steelers face the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France on Oct. 25. Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation remains a storyline, while New Orleans is expected to be led by Tyler Shough. The coaching matchup adds intrigue with Mike McCarthy facing former assistant Kellen Moore.
Bengals and Falcons Headline Madrid Showcase
Madrid hosts its second NFL game on Nov. 8 when the Cincinnati Bengals meet the Atlanta Falcons at Bernabéu Stadium. Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins face Bijan Robinson, who is coming off a league-best 2,298 scrimmage yards. Both teams aim to rebound after missing the playoffs in 2025.
Patriots and Lions Square Off in Munich
Week 10 features a high-powered matchup in Munich as the New England Patriots face the Detroit Lions on Nov. 15. New England, led by Drake Maye and a top-five defense, looks to build on its Super Bowl appearance. Detroit brings one of the league’s most explosive offenses, including German-born star Amon‑Ra St. Brown.
49ers Close International Slate in Mexico City
The final international game of 2026 sends the 49ers to Mexico City to face the Minnesota Vikings on Nov. 22. San Francisco returns to Mexico for the first time since 2022, while Minnesota brings a new quarterback competition featuring Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy. George Kittle is expected to return after an Achilles injury.
