The Dallas Cowboys officially know their road map for the 2026 NFL season, and the league once again placed America’s Team front and center in primetime windows. 

Dallas will open the season Sept. 13 on Sunday Night Football against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium before returning home for an NFC East showdown with the Washington Commanders in Week 2. 

The early portion of the schedule is stacked with marquee matchups, including:

  • A Week 3 international game against the Baltimore Ravens in Rio de Janeiro.
  • An in-state clash with the Houston Texans in Week 4.
  • A Thursday Night Football matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 5.
  • A Monday Night Football road game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 7.

Why it matters: The schedule could provide an early measuring stick for second-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer as Dallas attempts to rebound from a disappointing 2025 campaign.

The Cowboys are also expected to receive multiple national television appearances again this season, including their traditional Thanksgiving Day game against the Eagles in Week 12 at AT&T Stadium.

By the numbers:

  • Dallas is slated for at least five primetime games.
  • The Cowboys will face playoff-caliber opponents including Baltimore, Philadelphia and the San Francisco 49ers.
  • Their bye week comes late in the season in Week 14.

The big picture: The NFL continues to lean heavily on the Cowboys as a television draw, with Dallas featured in major standalone windows throughout the season and selected for another international showcase game.

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Stephen Michael
Stephen Michael
Stephen Michael has over 12 years of experience as a sports journalist covering the moments that define the game. His coverage has appeared across digital platforms, from Project Spurs to SB Nation, covering sports teams in San Antonio and Austin.