Patriots vs. Seahawks 2026: Season Opener Insights

The 2026 NFL regular season begins with a face-off between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, a rematch of Super Bowl LX. The Seahawks celebrate their victory by raising their second championship banner before the game. Meanwhile, the Patriots showcase their new wide receiver, A.J. Brown. However, they will play without running back TreVeyon Henderson due to an ankle injury.

Broadcast Details:

• TV: NBC, Peacock
• Streaming: Fubo

Seattle’s love for Richard Sherman was clear as he received a standing ovation while raising the No. 12 flag before kickoff at Lumen Field. Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready delivered an electric guitar rendition of the national anthem, setting the stage for the game.

As the Seahawks take the field with the stadium lit in celebration, they honor their connection with their fans, lovingly referred to as the ’12s.’ Legendary Seahawk Kam Chancellor rallied the crowd with a chant before the game starts.

Match Insights:

Tonight marks the Patriots’ first appearance in front of Seattle’s ’12s’ since 2012. The last time the Patriots visited Seattle was in 2020, during pandemic restrictions. Drake Maye, entering his third season, is anticipated to contend for the MVP award. Facing Seattle’s top-tier defense will test his potential.

Before the kickoff, Seattle unveils their second Super Bowl banner, a reminder of their triumph over the Patriots in February. Actor Joel McHale, an avid Seahawks fan, takes on the role of the NFL’s celebrity photographer for the night.

Key Absences:

The Seahawks will miss star nickel corner Nick Emmanwori, among other inactive players. This could present an opportunity for Patriots receivers such as Romeo Doubs or DeMario Douglas to shine.

For the Patriots, notable absences include TreVeyon Henderson and other key players. Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to lead New England’s backfield in Henderson’s absence.

Player Spotlight:

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, after a remarkable season, is watched closely. He set a franchise record with 1,793 receiving yards and joined elite company in leading the NFL in that category while winning a Super Bowl.

NBC’s Broadcast Plan:

NBC continues to air the NFL’s season opener with Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth returning for play-by-play and analysis. Melissa Stark and Kaylee Hartung report from the field.

The pregame show ‘NFL Kickoff Special’ features familiar faces like Devin McCourty and Mike Tomlin among its hosts.

Odds and Predictions:

The Seahawks are 3.5-point favorites for the game, with Seattle gaining more support in moneyline bets. Meanwhile, divisional odds reflect the surprise of last year’s Super Bowl matchup.