The 2026 NFL schedule for the Baltimore Ravens is out, and it's a fascinating look at the team's upcoming season. With a mix of familiar opponents and new challenges, the Ravens have a chance to build early momentum under new head coach Jesse Minter. Here are five key takeaways from the schedule:
Early Momentum and New Schemes: The Ravens' first seven opponents - the Colts, Saints, Cowboys, Titans, Falcons, Browns, and Bengals - had a combined record of 43-75-1 last season. This provides a runway for Minter's team to gel and build momentum, especially with new offensive and defensive schemes in place. The early-season schedule is a stark contrast to the past two seasons, when Baltimore faced brutal gauntlets out of the gates.
AFC North Showdown: The middle of the schedule packs the most punch, with four straight AFC North games to close out the year. This is the first time that has happened in the Ravens' 31-year history, and it means the Ravens will need to be at their best late in the season if they are going to reclaim the AFC North crown. The Week 17 Ravens-Bengals New Year's Eve game in Cincinnati is a highly anticipated heavyweight tilt that could decide the division.
International Game and Quick Turnaround: The Ravens will take on the Cowboys in Brazil early in the season, which will be a challenging game. However, the team will have a quick turnaround to face the Jaguars on Thursday night, followed by a 11-day mini-bye before the big Monday night game against the Chargers.
Strong Opponents in the Middle: The Ravens will face five straight teams that went to the playoffs last season - the Bills, Jaguars, Chargers, Panthers, and Texans - from Weeks 8-12. This stretch will go a long way in determining the Ravens' standing as they head into December.
Key Matchups: The schedule features several key matchups, including the Ravens S Kyle Hamilton vs. Colts TE Tyler Warren, Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey vs. Saints WR Jordyn Tyson, and Ravens QB Lamar Jackson vs. Bills QB Josh Allen. These games will be crucial in determining the team's success and the outcome of the AFC North division.
