2026 NFL Schedule Release: Early Season Strength of Schedule Revealed

Why it matters locally: The New England Patriots face the NFL's most challenging opening five games in four decades, with their first opponents compiling a combined 2025 winning percentage of .680.

The 2026 NFL schedule, released this week, highlights significant differences in early season strength of schedule across the league. The Green Bay Packers begin their season with an advantageous five-game stretch. Their initial opponents collectively held a 2025 winning percentage of .393, based on their previous season records. This favorable start positions the Packers with one of the league's easier opening schedules. Conversely, the New England Patriots face the NFL's most challenging opening five games in four decades. Their first opponents compiled a combined 2025 winning percentage of .680. This difficult stretch marks the toughest start for the Patriots since the 1986 season. Other teams also received notable schedule placements. The Atlanta Falcons, for instance, play three primetime games within their first six contests. The Kansas City Chiefs open the season with five consecutive games against opponents that reached the playoffs in 2025, including a Week 1 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. The Seattle Seahawks play four of their initial five games on the road. The Detroit Lions receive a Thanksgiving Day home game for the 100th time in franchise history. Additionally, the Denver Broncos play three of their first four games on the road, with two of those contests against 2025 playoff teams. The Las Vegas Raiders receive a bye week in Week 5. This early bye week provides extra preparation time before their subsequent games.