Key Takeaways:
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The 2026 NFL season kicks off Wednesday, September 9, with the Seattle Seahawks hosting the New England Patriots in a Super Bowl LX rematch.
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All 32 teams will play a 17-game regular season as part of the league's full 272-game schedule.
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Rookie quarterbacks and offseason coaching changes are expected to shake up several teams' outlooks heading into Week 1.
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Skybox Collectibles carries football card boxes ahead of the season, ideal for collectors chasing rookie cards and building out team sets.
Football season is almost here, and this NFL season preview covers what fans and collectors need to know before Week 1 kicks off. From the season-opening matchup to the biggest storylines shaping 2026, here's a look at the year ahead.
When Does the 2026 NFL Season Start?
The 2026 NFL season begins Wednesday, September 9, with the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks hosting the New England Patriots at Lumen Field. It's a rematch of Super Bowl LX, which the Seahawks won to claim the franchise's second Lombardi Trophy. The full 272-game schedule, confirmed by FOX Sports, has all 32 teams once again playing a 17-game regular season.

What Are the Top NFL Season Predictions for 2026?
Entering the upcoming NFL season, plenty of storylines are already generating buzz. Rookie quarterbacks selected early in the 2026 NFL Draft will get their first shot at NFL competition, and several teams enter the year under new coaching staffs after an active offseason.
Whether the Seahawks can repeat as champions or a new contender emerges, the NFL season predictions for 2026 are wide open. Training camp and preseason performances will offer the clearest picture yet of who's positioned to make a run.
How Can Collectors Get Ready for the Upcoming NFL Season?
This NFL season preview wouldn't be complete without covering how to prep a collection. A new season means a new wave of rookie cards, inserts, and team sets to chase. Skybox Collectibles carries football card boxes for the year ahead, along with a broader selection of sports card boxes across every major league. Once the season's biggest rookies start making headlines, sports card singles are a great way to add a specific player to a collection. Don't forget card protector sleeves to keep new pulls safe all season long.
Skybox Collectibles also carries a full range of trading card games alongside sports cards, so collectors can round out their hobby in one place.
FAQs
What does this
NFL season preview cover for 2026?
This
NFL season preview covers the Week 1 matchup, the full 272-game schedule, and the top storylines heading into the 2026 season, from rookie quarterbacks to coaching changes.
How many games are in the 2026 NFL season?
Each of the league's 32 teams plays a 17-game regular season, for a total of 272 games across the full schedule.
What's the best way to start a football card collection this season?
Building a collection at the start of a new NFL season is easy with a football card box, offering a mix of commons, inserts, and rookie cards from the year's newest sets.