The 2026 NFL schedule has finally been released, revealing the dates and times for each of the Buffalo Bills‘ games. Fans are excited as the team also reveals details about their preseason opponents while gearing up for the upcoming season.
Like every team, the Bills will have three preseason games, hosting two at home and traveling for one. They will kick off the preseason by welcoming the Carolina Panthers on Aug. 15 at 1:00 p.m. ET. Following that, they will head out on the road to face the Cleveland Browns on Aug. 22 at 1:00 p.m. ET, then wrap up their preseason at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Aug. 27 at 7:00 p.m. ET.
The preseason has been watered down over the last few years, with star players often sitting out games to avoid injury. However, it’s still a valuable opportunity to see teams showcase their recent draft picks and players vying for roster spots.
Another factor that has impacted preseason games is the trend of joint practices between two teams. Many NFL teams now hold joint practices for a few days before playing a preseason game afterward. This approach allows teams to let their star players compete against each other in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of injury that can occur during an unregulated preseason game. Overall, it’s a good way for teams to prepare while minimizing potential risks.
Bills Having Joint Practices With The Browns in Cleveland
The Bills will have the opportunity to hold their own joint practices this season, which are scheduled to take place with the Browns in Cleveland. However, the exact dates are still to be determined.
Buffalo teaming up with Cleveland is a fantastic idea for several reasons. One key factor is that both the Bills and the Browns are bringing in new head coaches this season: Joe Brady for Buffalo and Todd Monken for Cleveland.
Both coaches will have the opportunity to learn from each other during the practice sessions, identify areas for improvement, and explore new elements to incorporate into their routines. Even though Monken has never held a head coaching position in the NFL, he has coached football for over 40 years and can offer Brady valuable insights into the league.
The Bills will also have a chance to improve against the Browns’ defense. While Cleveland may struggle with one of the NFL’s weakest offenses, it boasts a strong defense led by pass rusher Myles Garrett. It will be interesting to see how Garrett matches up against the Bills’ offensive line during the practices.
Buffalo Will Have a Holiday Slate This Season
The Bills will be facing off against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thanksgiving night, and they aren’t stopping there! Buffalo will also take on the Broncos in Denver on Christmas Day, a game exclusively available on Netflix.
Buffalo fans will be spending a lot of their holidays sitting in front of the television this year, and hopefully, the Bills can pull off a win on both days so that they don’t ruin anyone’s festivities.
Bills Release 3 Preseason Games Along With Regular Season Schedule