NFL schedule makers did Seahawks-Rams rivalry no favors in 2026

Football: NFC Championship: Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald and Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay greet each other at midfield following game at Lumen Field. Seattle, WA 1/25/2026CREDIT: Simon Bruty (Photo by Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X164832 TK1) Fans will be getting a healthy dose of the Los Angeles Rams in 2026, but the NFL completely whiffed on the timing of several high-profile matchups. Cramming both Rams-Seahawks games into two of the final three weeks was only the beginning of the league’s scheduling chaos this season.

Interesting schedule note: The #Seahawks and #Rams — who played three times last season, including a thrilling NFC Championship Game — won’t face each other this season until Week 16. They then quickly turn around and meet again in Week 18. pic.

twitter. com/GWkBRm8Fa5 — Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 14, 2026 The NFL lost its mind not only waiting to schedule the first Rams-Seahawks game in Week 16, but also making L. A.

visit Seattle on a short week. These teams played in a pair of thrillers in the Emerald City — games that were decided by five points, mind you — and this is how you plan to showcase a matchup featuring the NFC’s top squads? Forget the prestige of playing on Christmas; this is a game that deserves to be played on a normal week, either on Sunday or Monday night.