NFL Preseason 2026: Full Schedule, Scores & How to Watch
Every Hall of Fame Game, Week 1 through Week 3 matchup, kickoff time, and TV channel for the NFL preseason 2026 — in one simple guide.
Last updated: June 2026
The NFL preseason is back, and it brings the first real football action since the Super Bowl. This guide covers the complete NFL preseason schedule, key dates, TV channels, and scores so you never miss a snap. Whether you’re checking NFL preseason games today, looking back at the NFL preseason schedule 2025, or simply asking when does NFL preseason start, everything you need is right here.
What Is the NFL Preseason?
The NFL preseason is a set of exhibition games played before the regular season begins. Coaches use these NFL preseason games to evaluate rookies, test new schemes, and decide who makes the final 53-man roster. Most teams play three preseason games, while the two clubs selected for the Hall of Fame Game get a fourth. Preseason results don’t count toward the standings, but they’re often the first real look at a team’s new additions.
NFL Preseason Schedule 2026 — Key Dates
The full 2026 NFL preseason schedule runs across four weeks of action, kicking off in Canton, Ohio and wrapping up just before final roster cuts.
- Hall of Fame Game: Thursday, August 6 — Carolina Panthers vs. Arizona Cardinals (Canton, Ohio)
- NFL Preseason Week 1: Thursday, August 13 – Sunday, August 16
- NFL Preseason Week 2: Thursday, August 20 – Sunday, August 23
- NFL Preseason Week 3: Thursday, August 27 – Saturday, August 29
- Roster Cutdown Deadline: Sunday, August 30, 2026
Each of the 32 teams has its own set of matchups within these windows, with several games featured nationally on NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN, and Prime Video.
When Does NFL Preseason Start?
The NFL preseason 2026 starts on Thursday, August 6, 2026, with the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio, followed by Week 1 on August 13. The preseason opener has shifted slightly in recent years — the 2024 Hall of Fame Game kicked off on August 1, while the 2025 Hall of Fame Game was played on July 31, the earliest preseason start since 2000. As a rule of thumb, expect NFL preseason games to begin during the first two weeks of August every year.
NFL Preseason Games Today
During August, multiple NFL preseason games are played every Thursday through Saturday across the league. Because matchups and kickoff times vary by team and week, the easiest way to stay current is to check our blog for the NFL preseason schedule today, updated matchups, and live scores as they happen throughout the month.
How to Watch NFL Preseason Games
Here’s where to watch NFL preseason games and the networks carrying the NFL preseason TV schedule this year:
- NBC & Peacock — Hall of Fame Game broadcast
- CBS, FOX & ESPN — select national preseason games
- Prime Video — Thursday night preseason matchups
- NFL Network — additional national coverage
- Local affiliates — most regular-season market broadcasts
- Streaming: NFL+, Peacock, Prime Video, fuboTV, and YouTube TV
Always double-check your local listings, since regional broadcasts can vary by market.
NFL Preseason Scores & Standings
NFL preseason scores are closely watched by fans, even though preseason wins and losses don’t affect NFL preseason standings or playoff seeding. Coaches and scouts focus far more on individual performances — how a rookie quarterback handles pressure, or whether a undrafted free agent earns a roster spot — than the final score. Check our blog daily during August for live updates as each NFL preseason game wraps up.
A Look Back: NFL Preseason 2025
The NFL preseason 2025 opened on July 31 with the Detroit Lions facing the Los Angeles Chargers in the Hall of Fame Game — the earliest preseason kickoff since 2000. From there, the 2025 NFL preseason schedule ran through three full weeks of action in August, giving every franchise a final chance to set its roster before the regular season. Looking back at recent years, including the NFL preseason 2024 slate, helps set expectations for how the 2026 calendar will unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the NFL preseason start in 2026?
The NFL preseason 2026 begins on Thursday, August 6, with the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio, followed by Week 1 on August 13.
How many preseason games does each NFL team play?
Most teams play three NFL preseason games. The two teams selected for the Hall of Fame Game play a fourth.
Do NFL preseason games count toward the standings?
No. Preseason results have no impact on regular-season standings, playoff seeding, or draft order. They’re used purely for roster evaluation.
How can I watch NFL preseason games?
NFL preseason games air on NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN, Prime Video, NFL Network, and local affiliates, with streaming available through NFL+, Peacock, Prime Video, fuboTV, and YouTube TV.
When did the NFL preseason start in 2025?
The 2025 NFL preseason started on July 31 with the Hall of Fame Game between the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers — the earliest preseason opener since 2000.
Where can I find today’s NFL preseason schedule?
Check our blog for the latest NFL preseason schedule today, including daily matchups, kickoff times, and live scores throughout August.
What channel is the NFL preseason on in 2026?
The 2026 NFL preseason TV schedule includes games on NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN, Prime Video, and NFL Network, alongside local market broadcasts.
Final Thoughts
The NFL preseason 2026 sets the stage for a brand-new season, with roster battles, rookie debuts, and storylines that carry into September. Bookmark this page to stay on top of the full NFL preseason schedule, scores, and TV listings all month long.
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