The Colts’ schedule could spell trouble early
Things start off with a bang for the Colts in 2026.
Nov 30, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen during the first half against the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images | Robert Goddin-Imagn Images The 2026 NFL schedule was released for the Indianapolis Colts, and while the release itself was perfection, the path ahead is wrought with peril. Like all seasons, teams can go a totally different direction than the previous year, so nothing is easy to predict.
With that said, the first third of the season is potentially so brutal that it could create some major disruption and cost players and personnel their jobs if things stumble out of the gate. Baltimore took a step back last year but still made a late-season push with a healthy Lamar Jackson. Expect him to be back and have the Ravens in the upper echelons of the AFC.
A new coach in Baltimore might be the only break the Colts get to open the schedule. The Texans and Steelers in the first five could spell trouble as well. The Texans have owned the Colts in previous years, and the Steelers have always owned the Colts.
Playing in Pittsburgh again should make fans wince. The Chiefs game is slated for Sunday Night Football. That’s odd because who the heck is at quarterback for either team?