The 2026 NFL Draft is now in the books, and all eyes are turning to the upcoming regular-season schedule. The league confirmed last week that the full 2026 schedule will be unveiled this Thursday, May 14.
This time last year, the Washington Commanders were riding high after a 12-5 season and a trip to the NFC Championship Game—their first in 33 years. With young superstar quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the charge, the team was a prime-time favorite, drawing five night games and eight standalone appearances, including a Christmas Day showdown.
But the script flipped in 2025. Injuries ravaged the roster, and Washington stumbled to a 5-12 finish. Now, the question is how many spotlight slots the Commanders will earn in 2026. Over the past week, several NFL games have leaked, including the season opener and most international matchups. The Commanders are confirmed as the home team for a London game in 2026. The opponent and exact date remain uncertain, but we’re tracking every hint.
Over the next few days, we’ll compile the latest rumors, leaks, and confirmed games for Washington’s 2026 schedule, right up until the full release Thursday evening. We’ll also highlight matchups that could impact the team’s path.
No Week 1 clash with Cowboys or Giants
Washington opened last season at home against the New York Giants. That won’t repeat in 2026, as the Giants are slated to face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1.
No Thanksgiving trip to Dallas
The Commanders could still land a Thanksgiving Day game, but it won’t be in Arlington against the Cowboys. Dallas is hosting the Philadelphia Eagles. Washington also won’t face the Detroit Lions, since the two teams aren’t on each other’s 2026 schedule. One more Thanksgiving prime-time game remains unannounced. The Giants and Commanders have occupied that slot before. Could it be a potential matchup? Unlikely, but we’ll see.
Commanders vs. Colts in London?
The pieces are falling into place for Washington to “host” the Indianapolis Colts at Tottenham Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 9:30 a.m. ET. This seems increasingly likely, but nothing is official yet.
Stay tuned as we update this tracker with the latest schedule news for the Washington Commanders.