​For many NFL fans, the long-awaited 2026 season can’t arrive soon enough. Those using the ESPN App can start whetting their appetite with preseason action from across the league. ESPN announced on Wednesday that NFL Network will broadcast 19 live out-of-market games during the 2026 NFL preseason, running from August 13 through August 29. In addition, fans with the ESPN Unlimited plan will enjoy an expanded slate of 12 out-of-market games beginning August 13, up from five games last season. All 48 preseason games will also be available on NFL Network as replays for fans who want to catch up after the live broadcasts.
ESPN will also televise one national, exclusive preseason matchup on August 20 featuring the Las Vegas Raiders and the Houston Texans, giving national audiences their first look at No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza in the silver and black. Among the highlights of NFL Network’s preseason coverage is a Thursday, August 13 game where the Green Bay Packers visit the Pittsburgh Steelers, reuniting head coach Mike McCarthy with quarterback Aaron Rodgers against their former team. On Saturday, August 15, a tripleheader will begin at 1 p.m. with the Cleveland Browns, led by first-year head coach Todd Monken, taking on the Chicago Bears. At 4 p.m., the Los Angeles Rams will travel to Kansas City to face the Chiefs in what could be a Super Bowl preview, followed by a 8 p.m. clash between the Dallas Cowboys and the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.
ESPN’s Unlimited plan will also feature a Friday, August 28 showdown between the defending champion Seahawks and the Chiefs, with multiple opportunities to see Mendoza and the Raiders throughout the preseason. For fans seeking the full schedule and additional details, the complete lineup is available through ESPN’s channels and platforms. This expanded rollout marks ESPN’s effort to deliver more out-of-market action and national exposure during the 2026 NFL preseason, including a blend of early-season storylines, potential breakout players, and a closer look at Mendoza’s rookie year in Las Vegas. The latest schedule and availability can be found on ESPN’s official site and the Awful Announcing coverage.