The NFL preseason is in full swing, and the excitement is palpable. Rookies like Cade Klubnik and Drew Allar are making waves, leaving fans eager for more. But amidst the buzz, it's worth noting that Monday Night Football (MNF) is not on the schedule for the 2026 preseason. This is a stark contrast to the regular season, where MNF takes center stage. The first regular-season MNF game is set for September 14, with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Denver Broncos at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, and NFL+. The preseason schedule, on the other hand, is a different story. It's a time for teams to experiment, evaluate talent, and prepare for the upcoming season. The second week of the preseason, in particular, is packed with action. On Thursday, August 20, the Las Vegas Raiders and Houston Texans will face off on ESPN, followed by the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Chargers on NFL Network. Friday brings a slate of games, including the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers on NFL Network, and the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos on the same channel. Saturday is a busy day, with games across various networks, including ESPN Unlimited, FOX, and NFL Network. The Bills, Browns, Falcons, Colts, Ravens, Vikings, Saints, Rams, Giants, Dolphins, Bears, Eagles, Patriots, Chiefs, Buccaneers, and Cardinals will all be in action. Sunday wraps up the week with the Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans on FOX. The NFL Network is accessible through various streaming services and cable providers, offering fans multiple ways to catch the action. ESPN Unlimited, included with certain subscriptions, also provides access to NFL Network. The preseason schedule is a crucial phase for teams to fine-tune their strategies and assess their depth charts. It's a time for players to make their mark and for coaches to make critical decisions. As the preseason unfolds, fans can look forward to witnessing the development of young talent and the emergence of new stars. The regular season, with MNF taking center stage, will soon follow, bringing the excitement of NFL football to a whole new level.
