Los Angeles Chargers 2026 schedule: Friendly start at home before brutal 7-game stretch
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Los Angeles Chargers' 2026 NFL schedule has been released, featuring a more structured start with back-to-back home games in Weeks 1 and 2 before traveling in Week 3.
- Key matchups include Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals, where defending rookie running back Jeremiyah Love will be crucial, and a primetime Week 10 game at the Baltimore Ravens featuring former Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter facing his protege Chris O’Leary.
- The Chargers face a difficult stretch from Weeks 3 to 6, including road games against the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Kansas City Chiefs, making their Week 7 bye week essential for recovery.
- The Chargers must secure a win in Week 11 against the New York Jets to capitalize on a relatively easier part of their schedule, while also preparing for tough games against the Rams (Week 8) and Seahawks (Week 4), who have the league’s best offense and defense respectively.
- Predicted to finish second in the AFC West with a 10-7 record, the Chargers are expected to make the playoffs for the third consecutive year under coach Jim Harbaugh, though the Broncos are favored to win the division.