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ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Bijan Robinson #7 of the Atlanta Falcons stiff arms De'Vondre Campbell #59 of the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
First off, the Atlanta Falcons nailed their schedule release this year. It was the perfect blend of nostalgia while highlighting the new era of Falcons football, and the media team hit it out of the park.
With the table set, let’s take a look at some early takeaways that will likely impact how the 2026 season unfolds:
A Tough Start
The Falcons won’t be able to ease into the season by playing weak opponents; they’ll also be thrust into the limelight and stay there for a few weeks. Atlanta will face off against five 2025 playoff teams in the first 9 weeks, they also face three division opponents in there first eight games. There are no “easy” opponents in this league but the Falcons will be tested early and often. The team will have three consecutive primetime games, two of which will be on the road (Green Bay and New Orleans), before capping it off against Lamar Jackson. The first half slate ends against Joe Burrow’s Bengals in Madrid.
Favorable travel and rest
While the start of the season will be tough, the travel arrangements for the bulk of the season are pretty favorable. The team will avoid playing in Green Bay and Pittsburgh during the winter months. They do have to travel to Cleveland in winter for the “Stefanski Revenge Game,” but considering their away opponents this year, only one frigid winter game isn’t too bad.
While they do have three consecutive primetime games, the team did land a Monday Night Football game after their Thursday Night Football game, meaning they’ll get a few extra days of rest. These breaks have come in handy for teams in the past who’ve suffered early-season injuries. Atlanta also secured a Week 11 bye, almost right in the middle of the season (7 games post-bye week), which is ideal timing.
A Photo Finish
It wouldn’t be a legitimate NFC South season without winter antics. The Falcons will close out the year with 3 consecutive division games against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, and Carolina Panthers. It’s likely the division winner will be decided in the final week. So grab your Bayer Aspirin and prepare for a sweaty finish.
All in all, the Falcons made out well with this year’s schedule. Yes, the team will be tested early, but in order to make the playoffs, you have to beat good teams.
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