Story perspectives

NFL Eyes Thanksgiving Eve Game for 2026 Season

3/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The National Football League (NFL) is considering a Thanksgiving Eve game for the 2026 season, targeting Wednesday, Nov. 25.
Adding the game would create a nine-day stretch of NFL action from Nov. 22–30, 2026.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has indicated openness to more holiday games, including a Black Friday doubleheader.
Scheduling remains challenging because teams would need byes before the Wednesday game, and Wednesday games are historically rare.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's Thanksgiving Day tradition began in 1970, building on earlier college football games dating back to 1876. The Detroit Lions have hosted games since 1934, followed by the Dallas Cowboys in 1966. In 2006, the NFL added a third prime-time game, reflecting the league's growing popularity, with viewership reaching 57.2 million for a Thanksgiving game in 2025.

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Story summary

The National Football League (NFL) is considering a Thanksgiving Eve game for the 2026 season, targeting Wednesday, Nov. 25.
Adding the game would create a nine-day stretch of NFL action from Nov. 22–30, 2026.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has indicated openness to more holiday games, including a Black Friday doubleheader.
Scheduling remains challenging because teams would need byes before the Wednesday game, and Wednesday games are historically rare.

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