2026 NFL schedule snubs five teams from primetime
The 2026 NFL schedule is out, and reactions are already pouring in. Fans, teams, and media outlets can now start planning for another exciting season of professional football. One of the most scrutinized aspects of the NFL schedule release is the number of prime-time games each team receives.
The Buffalo Bills lead the league in 2026 with seven prime-time appearances. MORE: 7 best NFL schedule release videos highlighted by Chargers, Chiefs & more However, five teams failed to land a single prime-time slot. While flex scheduling could change that later in the season, nothing is guaranteed.
Here are the five teams shut out of prime time in 2026: Oct 23, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens nose tackle Brandon Williams (98) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports New York Jets All five teams left off the prime-time schedule missed the playoffs last season, including the New York Jets. Still, their exclusion feels somewhat surprising.
New York remains one of the league’s biggest media markets, and the roster features several first-round rookies eager to make an impact. Did the NFL make the right call? Tennessee Titans The Titans enter 2026 with a new coaching staff, a promising young quarterback, and renewed optimism.
Even so, Tennessee won’t get the chance to showcase Cam Ward under the bright lights of prime time. This marks the second straight season the Titans have gone without a prime-time appearance. The decision is certainly debatable, though Tennessee could still earn a flexed prime-time game later in the year.