Last updated: September 13, 2026 at 12:05 PM EDT

26 teams in action as the 2026 NFL season hits its first full Sunday

The first full Sunday of the 2026 NFL season has officially arrived across the United States, bringing 13 games and 26 teams into action. Following early matchups earlier in the week, fans nationwide are settling in for an afternoon of live scores, key injuries, and early-season statements. From high-stakes quarterback debuts to crucial division rivalries, today's slate sets the competitive tone for the entire fall.

What Is Happening

Today marks the true kickoff of the regular-season grind, featuring a massive wave of afternoon and evening contests. A total of 26 teams are taking the field, highlighted by marquee matchups such as the Bills facing the Texans in the early window. Division rivalries are also taking center stage, with the Packers battling the Vikings and the Eagles squaring off against the Commanders. The New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys will cap off the day on Sunday Night Football, rounding out an action-packed slate for football enthusiasts across the country.

The Background

The opening week of the NFL season always carries unique unpredictability as rosters adjust to live game speed after months of offseason workouts and preseason exhibitions. While teams benefit from extended preparation time for their openers, early upsets and blowouts remain common occurrences. Although a Week 1 victory does not guarantee a championship path—notably demonstrated by the Buccaneers bouncing back from an opening loss in 2020 to win the Super Bowl—statement performances heavily influence early divisional standings and organizational momentum.

The Latest Development

Several major roster storylines have dominated the hours leading up to kickoff. In Cincinnati, newly-minted quarterback Baker Mayfield leads the Tampa Bay Buccaneers into their opener against Joe Burrow and the Bengals, fresh off signing the richest contract in franchise history. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are missing cornerback Joey Porter Jr. against the Atlanta Falcons due to a back injury amid ongoing contract negotiations. In Chicago, wide receiver Rome Odunze is officially active for the Bears against the Panthers after managing a calf issue earlier in the week.

What It Means

The opening Sunday serves as an immediate barometer for teams carrying massive expectations into the autumn months. Front-office investments, contract resolutions, and roster depth face their first true stress tests under regular-season lights. For franchises like Tampa Bay, early execution validates massive financial commitments, while other teams must navigate sudden injuries and contractual standouts without missing a beat in tightly contested divisions.

What Remains Unclear

Questions linger regarding how active returning players will be handled as teams manage early-season workloads. It remains to be seen if active players returning from minor injuries, such as Chicago's Rome Odunze, will face strict snap counts. Additionally, the long-term resolution of unresolved contract matters surrounding sidelined players like Joey Porter Jr. has not been finalized by club leadership.

FAQ

• How many teams are playing on the first Sunday of the 2026 NFL season?

  A total of 26 teams are in action across 13 games on Sunday.

• Who are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers playing in their Week 1 opener?

  The Buccaneers are playing the Cincinnati Bengals.

• Is cornerback Joey Porter Jr. playing for the Steelers today?

  No, Joey Porter Jr. is inactive for the game against the Atlanta Falcons due to a back injury and ongoing contract talks.

• Which game is scheduled for Sunday Night Football?

  The New York Giants are facing the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football.

• Is Rome Odunze active for the Chicago Bears?

  Yes, Rome Odunze is officially active for the game against the Carolina Panthers after recovering from a calf injury.