The 2026 NFL season kicks off on Wednesday with a Super Bowl rematch, setting the stage for an unpredictable championship race. This season features a record nine international fixtures across four continents, culminating on February 14 in Los Angeles.

The Seattle Seahawks raise their championship banner against the New England Patriots, marking the first Wednesday opening game since 2012. This unusual scheduling supports the NFL's ambitious international agenda, starting with the San Francisco 49ers facing the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Key matchups include:

• Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro's Maracana Stadium.
• Three games in London and stops in Paris, Madrid, Munich, and Mexico City.

Significant roster changes have occurred since the Seahawks claimed their second Lombardi Trophy. The Los Angeles Rams, viewed as title favorites, made a striking trade for Myles Garrett from Cleveland. Aaron Donald returned from retirement, bolstering their championship ambitions.

Meanwhile, the New England Patriots enhanced their offense by acquiring A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles. The Seattle Seahawks aim to repeat their success despite questions in the backfield after Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III left for Kansas City.

The Kansas City Chiefs face uncertainty with Patrick Mahomes returning from an ACL tear. Teammate Xavier Worthy praised Mahomes's determination, stating, "His grind, his will and want-to is beyond anybody I’ve ever seen."

In Las Vegas, rookie Fernando Mendoza waits for his debut as the Raiders name Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback. The offseason also saw 10 franchises appoint new head coaches, including Jesse Minter with the Baltimore Ravens and Joe Brady with the Buffalo Bills.

At 42, Aaron Rodgers returns for his 22nd season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reuniting with coach Mike McCarthy. Former coach Mike Tomlin believes their pairing can surprise opponents, saying, "I think they got high expectations, and I think they should have high expectations."