NFL Preseason TV Schedule 2026: Full Broadcast Dates, Channels, And Live Stream Guide
The 2026 NFL preseason is officially in full swing as Week 2 action kicks off this weekend. Franchise executives, coaching staffs, and fans are locking in to assess high-profile rookie debuts, positional battles, and updated playbook installations. Navigating the August schedule requires knowing where to watch, as broadcast rights split across national networks, local TV affiliates, and specialized streaming services.
Below is the upcoming national broadcast schedule for Week 2 of the 2026 NFL preseason:
| Date | Game / Matchup | Kickoff Time (ET) | National TV / Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, Aug 14 | Atlanta Falcons at Baltimore Ravens | 7:00 PM | NFL Network |
| Saturday, Aug 15 | Detroit Lions at Kansas City Chiefs | 4:00 PM | NFL Network |
| Saturday, Aug 15 | Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Rams | 7:00 PM | NFL Network |
| Sunday, Aug 16 | Green Bay Packers at Denver Broncos | 8:00 PM | ESPN / ESPN+ |
| Monday, Aug 17 | San Francisco 49ers at Las Vegas Raiders | 8:00 PM | ESPN |
Understanding Local Blackouts and National TV Distribution
National TV broadcasts during the preseason differ significantly from the regular season. While networks like NFL Network carry over two dozen games live throughout August, local TV market restrictions remain strictly enforced. If a game is airing on NFL Network but involves your local team, the broadcast will likely be blacked out on cable in favor of your local over-the-air affiliate station (such as the local CBS, FOX, NBC, or ABC channel).
Key broadcast highlights for the remainder of the August schedule include:
- NFL Network: Broadcasting live out-of-market games throughout August, along with re-airs of every single preseason game.
- ESPN / ABC: Hosting exclusive primetime match-ups during Week 2 and Week 3 featuring top-tier contenders.
- NBC and FOX: Providing select high-profile weekend broadcasts leading up to the final roster deadline.
How to Stream Every 2026 NFL Preseason Game Live
Cord-cutters have multiple reliable pathways to access live preseason games without traditional cable or satellite packages. Digital platforms now offer comprehensive coverage across smart TVs, mobile devices, and desktop browsers.
Here are the most efficient ways to stream games live:
- NFL+: The league's official streaming service provides live out-of-market preseason games on all compatible devices. It is the most complete single option for fans living outside their favorite team's regional market.
- Live TV Streaming Services: Platforms like FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV carry NFL Network, ESPN, and local broadcast channels (CBS, FOX, NBC). Most offer free trial options for first-time subscribers.
- Network Apps: Authenticated subscribers can stream national broadcasts directly via the ESPN app, NBC Sports app, or FOX Sports app.
2023 NFL preseason Week 2 preview: Schedule, storylines and analysis ...
Road to Week 3 and the 2026 Regular Season Kickoff
Following the conclusion of Week 2, teams will quickly turn their focus to the preseason finale running from August 20 through August 23, 2026. Preseason Week 3 serves as the critical "dress rehearsal" where coaches finalize depth charts and make crucial decisions on bubble players before cutdown day.
Important upcoming dates to keep on your calendar:
- August 20–23, 2026: Preseason Week 3 games determine the final 53-man rosters.
- August 25, 2026: Official NFL roster reduction deadline (all teams must trim rosters down to 53 players by 4:00 PM ET).
- September 10, 2026: The 2026 NFL regular season officially kicks off with the Thursday Night Football season opener.
Ensure your streaming setups are tested and local channel guides are verified ahead of kickoff to avoid missing key game action.
