Seahawks vs Patriots Open 2026 Season in Rematch
SkimNews Take
The NFL's strategic placement of marquee games, like a Super Bowl rematch, alongside international expansion efforts suggests a dual focus on maximizing domestic viewership while simultaneously cultivating new global markets.
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- Seattle Seahawks will open the 2026 NFL season on Sept. 9 at Lumen Field against the New England Patriots, a rematch of Super Bowl LX.
- Defending champions have opened 21 seasons since 2004 with a 16‑5 record, and this will be the 12th Super Bowl rematch in the following season and the fourth straight such rematch.
- Hans Schroeder said the league chose the Patriots‑Seahawks opener because the previous Super Bowl rematch drew a big audience and would be a fun way to start the season.
- The NFL scheduled a Wednesday night opener to accommodate the first regular‑season game in Melbourne, Australia, the first Wednesday start since 2012.
- Mike Vrabel, Patriots coach and AP Coach of the Year, missed Day 3 of the NFL draft to seek counseling after a scandal involving reporter Dianna Russini, who later resigned from The Athletic.
Why it matters: Fans and advertisers gain a marquee kickoff that promises high ratings, while the league’s Wednesday start reshapes broadcast logistics for the inaugural Melbourne game and expands the league’s global audience.
Ask SkimNews
