2026 NFL season kicks off: Week 1 matchups and team outlooks

Josiah Trotter Makes NFL History in Debut

Bucs rookie Josiah Trotter became the first player since 1982 with a sack and pick-six in his NFL debut, returning a Burrow interception 38 yards in a 33-27 loss.

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Broncos Reportedly Sought Brees After Nix Injury

Broncos aides asked 47-year-old Drew Brees to return for the AFC title game after Bo Nix's injury; wrist pain ended the workout.

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Chiefs Rookie Delane Intercepts, Exits With Shoulder Injury

Chiefs rookie Mansoor Delane intercepted Bo Nix on his third NFL play, then exited with a right shoulder injury as Mahomes scored for a 7-0 lead.

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NFL Wednesday Opener Draws Lowest Audience Since 2022

The NFL’s midweek season opener between the Seahawks and Patriots drew 25.1 million viewers on NBC/Peacock, marking a roughly 11–12% drop from last year and the least-watched opening since 2022, though 18–49 ratings were the strongest since 2021. Analysts and networks note the unusual Wednesday slot and rematch dynamic, with streaming and international broadcasts continuing to influence overall viewership.

Pacheco Injury Reshapes Lions, College Football Rosters

Across football programs, several key players face extended absences or uncertain returns after injuries: the Detroit Lions’ Isiah Pacheco will miss a prolonged stretch after surgery, forcing more carries for Jahmyr Gibbs and others; Florida’s Eric Singleton Jr. is questionable to play as he recovers from an ankle injury ahead of the Florida–Auburn game. Additionally, Detroit’s Christian Mahogany has a negative initial scan but hip-related concerns keep his status uncertain, Oregon’s Jamari Johnson may miss time after not dressing, and Penn State’s LaVar Arrington II is dealing with a knee setback with a 4–6 week timeline, potentially affecting defensive line rotations.

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49ers Rookie Stribling Expected to Miss Month With Ankle Sprain

Rookie De’Zhaun Stribling suffered a deltoid ankle sprain in Week 1 and is expected to miss at least four weeks after being cleared to return by the 49ers’ medical staff, a decision critics say mirrors a pattern of rushing players back. As the 49ers’ injury woes persist from year to year, analysts and fans alike are calling for a reassessment or overhaul of the training staff, with past cases involving Brock Purdy and Ricky Pearsall cited to illustrate the broader risk to the roster’s depth.

UCF QB Barnett Expected Out Multiple Weeks

UCF QB Alonza Barnett III will miss multiple weeks with a fairly significant hamstring injury; Frost says he slipped on the turf and Jenkins is expected to start vs. Georgia State.

A.J. Brown questionable to return after ankle injury in Patriots opener

Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown left his debut against the Seahawks in the third quarter with an ankle injury and was ruled questionable to return while undergoing further evaluation, after posting three catches for 26 yards and drawing a late first-half DPI. The injury immediately followed his strong start in New England, with team officials updating his status as the medical tent examined him and he headed to the locker room for further checks.

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Chargers Offense Struggles in Season-Opening Loss to Cardinals

Chargers opened 2026 with a SoFi loss to the Cardinals; outlets split on the final, reporting either 28-16 or 26-14, as Herbert took three sacks.

Chargers' McConkey Questionable After Hit vs. Cardinals

Chargers WR Ladd McConkey left Week 1 vs. Cardinals questionable after a hard hit; he had 5 catches for 82 yards and a TD before exiting.

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49ers Rout Rams in Historic Australia Debut

In Melbourne, the 49ers-Rams game drew a massive crowd as De’Zhaun Stribling was carted off with an ankle injury in his NFL debut, highlighting the excitement and risk of the league’s first-ever Australia game. Across the pre-game ceremonies, fans criticized Infinity Song’s rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner while some praised Cody Simpson’s Australian anthem and the Black National Anthem performance by the Mwango Sisters sparked a broader debate on national-anthem traditions in the NFL.

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Jeanty Leads Raiders Past Dolphins 27-13

Ashton Jeanty exploded for 102 rushing yards on 23 carries and caught all six targets for 45 yards with two receiving touchdowns, helping the Raiders to a 27-13 win and signaling a breakout in Klint Kubiak’s run-first offense. The performance, coming after an ankle injury, showcased his versatility and steadier offense, with Kirk Cousins and teammates praising his impact and leadership.

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Diggs goalpost hug draws penalty in Commanders' 24-22 loss to Eagles

Diggs' goalpost hug after a 10-yard TD drew a 15-yard penalty, forcing an extra point instead of a tying two-point try in a 24-22 loss to the Eagles.

Robinson Arrives at NFL Debut in Navy Uniform

Bengals rookie DT Landon Robinson arrived at Paycor Stadium in U.S. Navy Service Dress Blue uniform before his first NFL game and was inactive versus Tampa Bay.

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Vikings Rally 29-0, Defeat Packers 39-22

Vikings scored 29 unanswered points to beat Packers 39-22 after Murray’s first-quarter concussion; Wentz threw three TDs, two to Jefferson.

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Eagles Hold Off Commanders 24-22

Eagles beat Commanders 24-22 after stopping a late two-point shovel pass; Hurts threw three TDs, Goedert caught two, including the 43-yard go-ahead score.

Cardinals Stun Chargers 26-14 in LaFleur Debut

The Arizona Cardinals pulled off a 26-14 upset over the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi, highlighted by a strong fourth quarter on special teams and Jacoby Brissett spreading the ball to multiple receivers. Ahead of the season, Chargers coach Mike McDaniel’s new offense and quarterback Justin Herbert face questions about how quickly it will gel, while Arizona’s No. 1 storyline centers on a potentially revived regime under new head coach Mike LaFleur after an unpredictable Week 1 showing.

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Lions survive Saints rally to win 31-30 in overtime

Lions beat Saints 31-30 in OT after Shough's two-point pass fails; Gibbs runs for 156 yards and two scores after Detroit blew a 21-0 lead.

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Murray Ruled Out of Vikings Debut After First-Quarter Head-and-Neck Hit

Kyler Murray showed a fencing posture and was ruled out with a concussion after a helmet-to-helmet hit while sliding in his Vikings debut Sept. 13, 2026.

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Derrick Henry Passes Marcus Allen on Career Rushing Touchdown List

Jets rookie Braelon Allen had 40 rushing yards on 10 carries in Week 1 behind Breece Hall, indicating a similar workload next week but not a fantasy option unless Hall is injured. Derrick Henry extended his historic rushing TD chase, scoring the 123rd in the season opener to tie Marcus Allen for third on the all-time list, while Kingston Allen burst onto the national scene with over 5,000 career high school rushing yards and a dominant start to his senior season as he commits to Wisconsin.

Rams’ Myles Garrett Set for Surgery, IR Stint

Los Angeles Rams star edge rusher Myles Garrett will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery and be placed on injured reserve, forcing him to miss at least four games with a return potentially in four weeks. The quartet of upcoming matchups includes the Giants, Broncos, Eagles and Bills, with a possible return as soon as Week 5 or Week 6 after the operation.

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Seahawks Intercept Maye Three Times, Edge Patriots 13-10

The New England Patriots lost to the Seattle Seahawks 13-10 as Drake Maye threw multiple costly interceptions, including an end-zone pick that sealed the game. Backup Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock engineered late scoring drives to overcome an early injury to Sam Darnold and secure the win.

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Seahawks’ Darnold Diagnosed With Glute Injury

Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a muscle-related hip/glute injury early in the season opener, with no fracture detected and the team holding him out for at least Week 2 as Drew Lock steps in; the timeline for a return ranges from a couple of weeks to potentially Week 3 or later, depending on recovery. Coaches and insiders have indicated the injury is muscular and not catastrophic, keeping Seattle optimistic about Darnold’s eventual return while Lock leads the team in the short term.

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Crosby Reportedly Shuts Down Rams Trade Talks

The Rams pursued Maxx Crosby after a Ravens trade fell through due to a knee issue, but Crosby insisted he wanted to stay with the Raiders, leading to no deal before Los Angeles pivoted to its blockbuster acquisition of Myles Garrett. The move underscores the Rams’ willingness to marry premium draft capital with elite pass rushers, while teams like the Eagles, Cowboys, and 49ers monitored Crosby as a potential buy-low option.

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Seahawks QB Darnold Leaves Opener After Sack

Seattle's season opener against the Patriots saw Sam Darnold leave early after a sack, limping off and being ruled questionable to return as Drew Lock took over. Reports indicate a likely lower-body/hip injury with updates pending as Seattle fights to rebound against New England.

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Seahawks Beat Patriots 13-10 in Super Bowl Rematch

Seattle enters the new season riding a strong defensive foundation and a steady offense led by Sam Darnold, while the NFC West again looks formidable with the Rams, 49ers and Cardinals all expected to push for success. Across multiple previews, analysts note the Seahawks face an uphill path to repeat as champions given historical difficulty of consecutive titles and the rest of a stacked division, even as they remain a threat in a franchise that has dominated headlines this off-season.

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Raiders, Dolphins Set for 2026 Season Opener

The Las Vegas Raiders, under first-year head coach Klint Kubiak, are rebuilding with significant roster upgrades and notable players to watch such as running back Ashton Jeanty, tight end Mayer, and rookie free safety Treydan Stukes, while star tight end Brock Bowers is out. The Dolphins travel to Las Vegas in Week 1 as under the expected to be improved Raiders era faces a test against a team that is trying to rebound from a difficult previous season.

Raiders Sign Michael Mayer to $45M Extension

The Las Vegas Raiders have extended tight end Michael Mayer for three years at $45 million with $30 million guaranteed, making him one of the highest-paid at the position and setting him up for expanded duties as Brock Bowers deals with a knee issue that will sideline him early. The move comes alongside ongoing concerns about Bowers’ durability, with Mayer expected to step in for Week 1 and serve as a key security blanket for the Raiders’ developing offense.

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Jets Expect Hall, Davis, Sadiq; Ossai, Gray Out

Week 1 looks favorable for the Jets, with Tennessee’s Cedric Gray out and the Jets entering the opener largely healthy on offense, potentially boosting New York’s ground game in Nashville. The Jets still face several injury questions on defense and special teams, including Ossai out, Ponds and Nwangwu doubtful, and kick-return duties being adjusted as the team weighs depth options and confirms Jason Sanders to handle kicking.

Packers, Tucker Kraft agree to four-year, $75 million extension

The Green Bay Packers and tight end Tucker Kraft remain locked in negotiations over a long-term extension ahead of the season opener, with Kraft pushing for a roughly $20 million-per-year deal and the team wary of guarantees beyond signing bonuses amid his ACL recovery. Some reports and insiders suggest a serious offer could close the gap before Week 1, and Packers officials are keen to finalize the deal despite the standoff.

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Jared Verse debuts for Browns after Myles Garrett trade

Jared Verse, acquired from the Rams to fill Myles Garrett's shoes, arrives in Cleveland focused on becoming a disruptive edge rusher as the Browns open against Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville. With Verse's proven pressures and new moves aimed at turning pressure into sacks, Cleveland hopes his development, plus any improvement from Deshaun Watson, can lift a defense and potentially fuel a playoff push.

Jaguars Outline Fluid Two-Way Plan for Hunter's Return

The Jacksonville Jaguars plan to use Travis Hunter as a two-way player, starting at cornerback but with potential limited offensive involvement as game plans allow, and coach Liam Coen says Hunter will play both WR and CB with usage that’s fluid and situational. Hunter is returning from a knee injury and the team aims to maximize his defensive impact while using him strategically on offense, including in the season opener against the Cleveland Browns.

Cowboys' Malik Davis Carted Off With Hip Injury

Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis suffered a hip injury in Friday's practice, leaving his Week 1 status in doubt and thinning the depth behind Javonte Williams. If Davis can’t play, Emari Demercado would become the primary backup, with Israel Abanikanda as a practice-squad option, and teams could consider recalling Jaydon Blue or Phil Mafah if needed.

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Titans Postpone Chris Johnson Ring Induction

The Tennessee Titans postponed Chris Johnson’s induction into the Ring of Honor because Johnson and his family cannot travel to Nashville due to his ALS diagnosis, with a future date to celebrate the moment and Sunday’s halftime ceremony still honoring his career. The team emphasized support for Johnson and his wife Brittany as they navigate his condition while plans for the induction are reorganized.

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Bears Reportedly Agree to $33.75M Swift Extension

The Chicago Bears agreed to a three-year, $33.75 million extension for running back D’Andre Swift, including $27.5 million guaranteed, keeping him under contract through the 2029 season. Reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the deal follows Swift’s 1,087-yard, nine-TD season and comes as the team reshapes cap space and locks in core playmakers.

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Patriots sign veteran DaQuan Jones to one-year deal worth up to $6 million

The New England Patriots have signed veteran defensive tackle DaQuan Jones to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million (base $3.5 million), adding experienced depth to a front seven after their Week 1 loss to the Seahawks. The move aims to bolster run defense and relies on Jones’s durability and Vrabel-Tennessee pipeline familiarity as the team prepares for Week 2 and rosters adjustments.

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NFL Matchups Listed Across Five Games

The NFL remains the wealthiest U.S. pro sports league, valued at $228 billion with an average franchise value of about $7.13 billion, per Sportico. The league’s 32 teams vie in two conferences with a 17-game schedule, culminating in the Super Bowl, which drew 124.9 million viewers for Super Bowl LX in February 2026, down slightly from last year’s 127.7 million.

Josh Allen, Bills Seek End to Houston Hex

Josh Allen’s visits to Houston have been painful for Buffalo, with a 0-4 record including a postseason loss and multiple sacks, and last season he was repeatedly harassed by a Texans defense led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. Buffalo opens the season in Houston as Allen, now a veteran leader, says he’ll do whatever it takes to win despite past elbow injuries and Houston’s track record against him.

Rams, 49ers Set for Historic Australia NFL Game

The Los Angeles Rams are delaying their travel to Australia to land roughly a day before their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, aiming to keep players’ rhythm and performance intact, a strategy inspired by their London trip. The 49ers arrived earlier and engaged with Melbourne, drawing criticism of the Rams’ approach as potentially damaging to the NFL’s image, though Rams coach Sean McVay defends it as best for the players.

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Three Lions Defenders Remain Limited Before Opener

The Lions’ Week 1 injury report shows three players limited (Derrick Moore, Christian Izien, Mekhi Wingo) but no setbacks, with several others practicing fully and tight end Sam LaPorta appearing healthy for the opener. After an off day, Detroit resumed practice with all 52 players available and coach Dan Campbell praising the offseason upgrades and the team’s competitive focus ahead of the home opener against the Saints.

Saints plan double Grand Final appearance

In the NFL’s NFC South, analysts expect 8 to 10 wins to be enough to win the weak division, with Baker Mayfield leading the Buccaneers under Todd Bowles and note of offseason offensive/defensive upgrades alongside a crucial healthy line; the Saints appear to be building around Tyler Shough with a revamped supporting cast. Meanwhile, in rugby league, St Marys Saints chase a historic double with two grand finals in one weekend, and St Helens face Leigh Leopards amid a packed schedule across multiple teams and competitions.

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Aaron Glenn Faces Critical 2026 Jets Season

The Jets’ 2026 outlook hinges on Aaron Glenn’s leadership and the team’s revamped offensive and defensive lines, which are expected to shape early-season success even as coaching scrutiny intensifies. A strong interior defensive line, featuring players like Sweat, Onyemata and Phillips, is central to improving run defense, while external projections warn that Glenn’s job could be at risk if results don’t materialize, despite offensive upgrades and added coordinators.

Harbaugh Raises Giants’ 2026 Playoff Expectations

The New York Giants, under John Harbaugh, are being positioned for a potential turnaround in 2026 with a retooled roster, a promising second-year quarterback, and high expectations despite modest outside buzz. From Cam Skattebo’s return to 20-plus carries, to starting-competition notes on the 53-man roster and bold predictions of a Cinderella Super Bowl run, the organization and analysts alike believe the Harbaugh era could lift the Giants into contention.

49ers, Rams Begin Historic Melbourne NFL Clash

The 49ers and Rams have embarked on drastically different long-haul trips to Melbourne for the NFL’s first game in Australia, with San Francisco flying a full Qantas A380 charter that carries players, staff, and extensive support logistics in a meticulously planned mission, while Los Angeles is opting to depart late and arrive just ahead of kickoff, underscoring contrasting strategies as the league tests international expansion. The spectacle includes large delegations, ceremonial support, and concern about jet lag as teams prepare for a historic matchup.

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Buccaneers, Mayfield Agree to $165 Million Extension

Baker Mayfield's contract talks with the Buccaneers remain stalled as he seeks a longer, higher-valued deal, with recent offers around $50 million AAV not meeting his expectations. Tampa has considered using the franchise tag but would incur a $50.3 million cap hit, and Mayfield has compared his value to top quarterbacks while making clear he won't negotiate during the season, leaving his future beyond 2026 uncertain as he aims to prove himself.

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Brock Purdy's advanced stats fuel debate over his elite status

Brock Purdy ranks among the NFL's top passers by EPA per dropback with a clean pocket and also shines under pressure, reinforcing the debate over whether he is truly elite beyond his surrounding system. Meanwhile, Deebo Samuel has returned to the 49ers on an incentive-based, depth-adding contract and appears motivated, improving the team's options as it heads into the new season amid questions about his age and past departures.

Patriots Kicker Borregales Takes Diggs’ Former No. 8

Patriots kicker Andy Borregales switched from No. 36 to No. 8, a number that traces back to his earliest days in football and became available after Stefon Diggs left the team. Entering his second season, he aims to build on a strong rookie year (27 of 32 FG, 53 of 55 XP, 134 points) and establish himself in the season opener against the Seahawks after a rocky preseason.

Giants extend Jameis Winston through 2028 as Dart's backup mentor

The New York Giants have extended quarterback Jameis Winston for two years and $13 million, keeping him through 2028 as a veteran backup and locker-room leader who mentors young starter Jaxson Dart. The deal comes under new head coach John Harbaugh and follows Winston's 2025 three-game contribution for 567 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, reinforcing the Giants' QB room ahead of the season.

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Shanahan jokes 49ers are 'in the future' before historic Rams matchup in Australia

San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan used the Australia trip to joke about being “in the future” and dodging injury updates ahead of the Week 1 clash with the Rams, while underscoring the broader strategic edge of their preparation. The team is embracing the Melbourne international opener with time-zone acclimation, strong fan support, and a focus on making the most of the unique venue and schedule.

NFL predictions for 2026 season name Super Bowl contenders

Baker Mayfield signs three-year Buccaneers extension after camp standoff

Ranking all 16 matchups in Week 1 of the NFL season

Buccaneers extend Baker Mayfield: Key intel and a grade

Baker Mayfield Signs Three-Year Extension With Buccaneers

Kyle Shanahan: I thought Aaron Donald would play, never been more excited to be wrong

NFL Week 1 picks against the spread: Take the Rams Down Under (but don’t crown them yet)

Baker Mayfield and Buccaneers agree to contract after early camp tensions

Patriots rule out running back Henderson for Seahawks opener

Patriots sign Christian Gonzalez to record extension before Seattle opener

49ers share latest on Nick Bosa status ahead of season opener

Sources: Christian Gonzalez, Patriots reach 4-year, $135M deal

Eagles name DeVonta Smith top receiver but leave No. 2 spot open

The Eagles expect DeVonta Smith to be the primary receiver with a developing rotation around him that includes young playmakers like Wicks and Lemon, while Makai Lemon’s rookie status and hamstring recovery add urgency for immediate contributions. Off the line and depth pieces, including Kendall and Lampkin, are proving more reliable—bolstering interior O-line upside—and the team faces typical 2026 scrutiny with a need for several receivers to step up alongside a high-performing rushing duo.

ESPN analysts project 2026 breakouts for Hutchinson, Hampton and Metcalf

ESPN analyst Seth Walder is issuing bold 2026 predictions across several teams, including Jonathan Greenard delivering a career year with the Eagles, Aidan Hutchinson winning Defensive Player of the Year, Omarion Hampton challenging for the rushing title, DK Metcalf anchoring a high-powered Steelers offense for a double-digit TD season, and Taylen Green starting four or more Browns games as he proves his potential. The forecasts come amid notable roster moves and injury effects shaping teams' expectations going into the season.

NFL 2026 Preview Highlights Injuries and Star Returns

In 2026 NFL previews, Justin Jefferson is projected to post 113 receptions for 1,376 yards and seven TDs as the Vikings lean on his growing connection with Kyler Murray, while the Packers battle injuries with Micah Parsons sidelined early but expected to return later in the season. The report also highlights Tucker Kraft potentially leading tight ends in receiving yards for Green Bay, Aaron Donald’s return to the Rams alongside Myles Garrett, and Micah Parsons forecasting a high sack total as he observes Donald’s comeback.

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Mahomes says rehab goal was walking before his daughter's first steps

Patrick Mahomes suffered ACL and MCL injuries in the Week 15 game against the Chargers and underwent surgery, but is on track to return for Week 1 against the Broncos after a rapid rehab. He used walking before his 11-month-old daughter Golden as a central motivation for his recovery, a detail highlighted by Chiefs personnel and reported across outlets.

NFL season kicks off Wednesday, raising fresh scheduling questions

As the NFL season kicks off, analysts highlight potential waiver-wire paths to league-wide success, discuss opening-week challenges, and engage in on-air season previews, while critics argue the league’s ongoing anti-racism messaging remains performative without meaningful accountability. The conversation also spotlights under-the-radar high school football storylines in California and Colorado, including Mater Dei’s looming test against Valor Christian and Santa Ana Valley’s bid for a 3-0 start.

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Seahawks, Patriots Set for Super Bowl Rematch

The Week 1 NFL opener pits a rematch of Super Bowl LX as Seattle hosts New England, with the Patriots upgrading their offense with new weapons and the Seahawks counting on a familiar, stifling defense to defend their title. Offseason roster moves, including a rookie running back plan and added receivers for New England, plus changing betting odds, underscore both teams’ efforts to translate upheaval into a fresh, high-stakes showdown.