The NFL has unveiled the Dallas Cowboys' 2026 regular season schedule, and it's a doozy! This year, the Cowboys will embark on a journey across 27,980 miles, aiming to build on their 7-9-1 record from 2025 under the leadership of Brian Schottenheimer. The team will be one of the most traveled in the league, with a unique international fixture in the books.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the schedule is the international game. For the first time since 2014, the Cowboys will play a regular-season game outside the United States. In Week 3, they'll host the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL's inaugural match in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This move is a strategic step towards global expansion and a chance to showcase the league's reach.
Another notable highlight is the Thanksgiving Day game. The Cowboys will face their NFC East rival, the Philadelphia Eagles, on Thanksgiving for the first time since 2014. This tradition is a beloved part of American football culture, and the Cowboys' involvement adds an extra layer of excitement.
The preseason schedule provides a glimpse into the team's preparation. Here's a quick look at their opponents:
- Preseason Week 1: Dallas Cowboys vs. Seattle Seahawks
- Preseason Week 2: Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals
- Preseason Week 3: Dallas Cowboys vs. New Orleans Saints
Now, let's dive into the regular season schedule, which promises to be a challenging and exciting journey for the Cowboys.
Week 1: Cowboys vs. New York Giants
The season opener against the Giants sets the tone. A win here could set the Cowboys on a path to success.
Week 2: Cowboys @ Washington Commanders
Traveling to face the Commanders, the Cowboys will need to bring their A-game to secure a victory.
Week 3: Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens (International)
The international game in Brazil is a unique challenge. The Cowboys will need to adapt to a new environment and a different style of play.
Week 4: Cowboys @ New York Jets
A trip to the Jets could be a turning point in the season.
Week 5: Cowboys vs. Minnesota Vikings
A home game against the Vikings, a team with a strong offensive line, will test the Cowboys' defensive strategy.
Week 6: Cowboys @ Chicago Bears
Traveling to face the Bears, the Cowboys will need to bring their offensive prowess to secure a win.
Week 7: Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers
A home game against the Packers, a historic franchise, could be a pivotal moment in the season.
Week 8: Cowboys @ Detroit Lions
A trip to Detroit to face the Lions, a team with a strong running game, will be a test of the Cowboys' defensive capabilities.
Week 9: Cowboys vs. New York Giants
Another meeting with the Giants, this time at home, could be a chance to avenge the season opener.
Week 10: Cowboys @ San Francisco 49ers
Traveling to face the 49ers, the Cowboys will need to bring their defensive prowess to secure a win.
Week 11: Cowboys vs. Seattle Seahawks
A home game against the Seahawks, a team with a strong defensive line, will be a test of the Cowboys' offensive strategy.
Week 12: Cowboys @ Los Angeles Chargers
A trip to face the Chargers, a team with a dynamic offense, will be a challenge for the Cowboys' defense.
Week 13: Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals
A home game against the Cardinals, a team with a strong running game, will be a test of the Cowboys' defensive strategy.
Week 14: Cowboys @ New Orleans Saints
Traveling to face the Saints, the Cowboys will need to bring their offensive prowess to secure a win.
Week 15: Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles (Thanksgiving)
The highly anticipated Thanksgiving game against the Eagles will be a battle for NFC East supremacy.
Week 16: Cowboys @ New York Giants
A trip to face the Giants again, this time in the final week, could be a crucial game for playoff positioning.
Week 17: Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders
The season finale against the Commanders will determine the Cowboys' playoff fate.
The Cowboys' 2026 schedule is a challenging one, with a mix of familiar rivals and new international opponents. It promises to be a thrilling journey, and fans can expect a competitive and entertaining season ahead.
