Patriot-Seahawks opener averaged 25.1 million viewers
nbcsports.com • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 NFL season opener, a rematch between the Patriots and Seahawks, averaged 25.1 million viewers, marking the fourth consecutive year the season opener exceeded 25 million viewers.
- Despite this consistency, the viewership dropped 12% from last year's 28.3 million for the Eagles-Cowboys game, hitting the lowest mark since 2022.
- The decline in viewers may be linked to the season starting on a Wednesday, a less common kickoff day compared to Thursday, which historically draws higher ratings.
- Wednesday night season openers are expected to continue, especially in years when the NFL cannot schedule a game on the first Friday night of the season, as will be the case in 2027 and 2028.
- By 2029, the NFL may adopt a Week 1 schedule that includes games on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights to accommodate broadcast needs.
