The 2026 NFL schedule is out, and reactions are already pouring in. Fans, teams, and media outlets can now start planning for another exciting season of professional football.
One of the most scrutinized aspects of the NFL schedule release is the number of prime-time games each team receives. The Buffalo Bills lead the league in 2026 with seven prime-time appearances.
MORE: 7 best NFL schedule release videos highlighted by Chargers, Chiefs & more
However, five teams failed to land a single prime-time slot. While flex scheduling could change that later in the season, nothing is guaranteed. Here are the five teams shut out of prime time in 2026:
Arizona Cardinals
Arizona missing out on prime-time games is far less surprising. Questions surround the quarterback position, the team is adjusting to a new head coach, and uncertainty continues to cloud the franchise’s future.
The Cardinals also compete in a division loaded with NFC contenders, making the road ahead even tougher. For Arizona fans, this season could be a grind — or perhaps the NFL did them a favor.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins received plenty of prime-time exposure beginning in 2022, but that era is over. Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and Mike McDaniel are all gone, and Miami suddenly looks much closer to the team it was in 2019.
Playing in the same division as the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots won’t make things any easier. At least Dolphins fans can say they aren’t the Jets … right?