The highly anticipated release of the 2026 NFL schedule is expected to be delayed, according to Ian Rapoport of ESPN and NFL Network.
While the league was initially targeting a reveal for the second week of May, Rapoport indicated today that the announcement is likely facing a pushback. The delay reportedly stems from the complexity of finalizing a record nine international games and a new broadcast package that includes a Wednesday night season opener in Seattle and a potential "Thanksgiving Eve" matchup.
NFL Vice President of Broadcast Planning Mike North recently suggested that the release could be moved to the week of May 18, noting that there is "no real downside" to the later date. If the schedule is released on or after May 15, it would mark the latest unveiling in league history, surpassing the previous record set in 2024.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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