Get ready for a groundbreaking year in the NFL! In 2026, the league is taking its game global like never before, with a record-breaking nine international matchups set to thrill fans across the globe. But here's where it gets exciting: three new cities—Rio de Janeiro, Paris, and Melbourne—will host NFL games for the very first time. And this is the part most people miss: while we already know the Atlanta Falcons are headed to Spain, there are still eight more teams yet to be announced for these international showdowns. Let’s dive into the predictions and break down who might face off in these historic games.
Falcons in Madrid: Who Will They Face?
Possible opponents: Panthers, Saints, Buccaneers, Bears, Lions, 49ers, Ravens, Bengals, Chiefs.
Prediction: Bears or Chiefs
Here’s the deal: The Dolphins, Chiefs, and Bears all have marketing rights in Spain, and since the Dolphins already played in Madrid last year, it’s logical the NFL would send one of the other two. Plus, the Falcons are scheduled to play both the Chiefs and Bears at home this season, making it highly likely one of these teams will join them in Spain. But here’s where it gets controversial: Could the NFL surprise us by sending a team outside this trio? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Lions in Munich: A German Showdown?
Possible opponents: Bears, Packers, Vikings, Saints, Buccaneers, Giants, Patriots, Jets, Titans.
Prediction: Giants
The Giants hold marketing rights in Germany, and reports suggest they’ll play an international game this year. While it’s not a done deal, it would be a mild surprise if they aren’t sent to Munich. And this is the part most people miss: Could the NFL opt for a more unexpected matchup to spice things up? Share your predictions below!
Jaguars in London: Double the Action
Possible opponents: Texans, Colts, Titans, Browns, Steelers, Patriots, Commanders, Eagles.
Prediction 1: Browns or Titans
Prediction 2: Eagles or Commanders
Here’s the twist: The Jaguars will be the home team for both London games, a first in NFL history. Historically, the NFL pairs them with one AFC and one NFC team, so expect that trend to continue. But here’s where it gets controversial: Could the NFL break tradition and send two AFC or NFC teams? What do you think?
Commanders in London: A Fair Distribution?
Possible opponents: Cowboys, Eagles, Giants, Rams, Seahawks, Falcons, Texans, Colts, Bengals.
Prediction: Bengals or Texans
The NFL seems to be spreading international games more evenly, and the Bengals and Texans haven’t played abroad since 2019. And this is the part most people miss: If the Bengals are chosen, it would mark the 10-year anniversary of their infamous tie with the Commanders in London. Would you root for another tie? Let us know!
Saints in Paris: A French Debut
Possible opponents: Falcons, Buccaneers, Panthers, Packers, Vikings, Cardinals, Browns, Steelers, Raiders.
Prediction: Browns or Raiders
French media reports suggest the Browns could face the Saints in Paris, especially since the NFL sent the Vikings to back-to-back international games last year. But here’s where it gets controversial: The Raiders, with their global brand appeal, could also be a strong contender. Who would you pick?
Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro: A Brazilian Blockbuster
Possible opponents: Giants, Eagles, Commanders, Cardinals, 49ers, Buccaneers, Jaguars, Titans, Ravens.
Prediction: Ravens or Buccaneers
The NFL loves making a splash in new cities, and pitting the Cowboys against Lamar Jackson’s Ravens would be a huge draw. The Buccaneers, with their history of embracing international games, are another strong candidate. And this is the part most people miss: Could the NFL surprise us with a different matchup altogether? Share your thoughts!
49ers in Mexico City: A Familiar Foe?
Possible opponents: Cardinals, Rams, Seahawks, Eagles, Commanders, Vikings, Broncos, Raiders, Dolphins.
Prediction: Broncos or Cardinals
The Cardinals have marketing rights in Mexico and have faced the 49ers in Mexico City before, making them a logical choice. Alternatively, an AFC-NFC matchup with the Broncos could be in the cards. But here’s where it gets controversial: Could the NFL send the Raiders, a fan favorite in Mexico, instead? What’s your take?
Australia Note: No Prediction Needed
The NFL has already announced that the Rams will host the 49ers in Melbourne, marking the league’s first-ever game in Australia. This historic matchup is set in stone, but it’s just one more reason to get excited about the NFL’s global expansion.
Final Thoughts: With nine international games on the horizon, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for the NFL. But as we’ve seen, not all predictions are set in stone. What do you think of these matchups? Are there any surprises you’re hoping for? Let us know in the comments!
