The 2026 NFL schedule release is here, and it's packed with exciting matchups, including a highly anticipated Thanksgiving Day game between the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears. This annual tradition is a cornerstone of NFL history, dating back to 1934, and the 2026 edition promises to be another thrilling chapter in this storied rivalry.
A Historic Rivalry
The Lions and Bears have a rich history of clashes, with this upcoming game marking their 86th meeting on Thanksgiving Day. The Bears hold a slight edge in the series, 11-9, but the Lions have been on a roll lately, winning their last two Thanksgiving games. The 2024 encounter was particularly memorable, as the Lions, led by head coach Dan Campbell, mounted a comeback from a 23-7 deficit, only to lose due to a clock management blunder by the Bears' coaching staff.
The Bears, under the leadership of former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, are the reigning NFC North champions. They will bring their dynamic offense, featuring the 2024 NFL Draft No. 1 overall pick, Caleb Williams, to Ford Field. The Lions, however, have their own arsenal, with star quarterback Jared Goff, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who will be eager to prove themselves against their former coordinator.
Thanksgiving Tripleheader
This game is the centerpiece of the NFL's annual Thanksgiving Tripleheader, a tradition that has become a staple of the league's schedule. The tripleheader is part of a five-game Thanksgiving Week slate, which also includes the Green Bay Packers hosting the Los Angeles Rams on Thanksgiving Eve, and the annual Black Friday game. The Packers and Rams will face off on Netflix, marking the first time the NFL has partnered with the streaming platform for a game.
International Expansion
The 2026 schedule also features nine international games, with dates, times, and matchups still to be announced. This expansion continues the NFL's global growth strategy, bringing the sport to new audiences worldwide. The international games will further showcase the league's ability to captivate fans beyond the United States.
A Day to Remember
The 2026 Thanksgiving Day game between the Lions and Bears will be a highlight of the NFL season, attracting millions of viewers across the country. It's not just about the football; it's a celebration of tradition, family, and the joy of the holiday season. The game will be broadcast on CBS, Paramount+, and NFL+, ensuring that fans everywhere can tune in to witness the action.
As the NFL schedule is unveiled on Thursday, May 14, at 8 p.m. ET, fans can start marking their calendars for this and other exciting matchups. The 2026 season promises to be another thrilling journey through the world of professional football, with the Lions and Bears at the forefront of the action.
