Cincinnati Bengals 2026 schedule: What we know ahead of Thursday’s reveal

The Cincinnati Bengals went 6-11 within the 2025 common season, ending third within the AFC North. The season was marred by beginning quarterback Joe Burrow struggling a turf toe damage in Week 2 that stored him out till Thanksgiving. The Bengals went 1-8 whereas he was out and missed the playoffs for the third straight season.

Cincinnati beefed up its protection this offseason, signing free brokers Boye Mafe, Bryan Cook and Jonathan Allen, drafting edge Cashius Howell and making a blockbuster trade for Pro Bowl defensive sort out Dexter Lawrence. All 11 starters are again on offense with a wholesome Burrow, together with all 5 beginning offensive linemen for the primary time in his profession. Expectations are for a rebound and return to the quick listing of contenders to win the AFC.

The NFL will launch the 2026 schedules for all 32 groups at 8 pm ET on Thursday. Here is what we know concerning the Bengals’ schedule up to now:

The Bengals will play every group from the AFC South and the NFC South, whereas internet hosting the Kansas City Chiefs, visiting the Miami Dolphins and the Washington Commanders. Cincinnati may also see its AFC North rivals twice, as soon as on the highway and as soon as at Paycor Stadium. All three divisional groups employed new coaches this offseason, whereas Zac Taylor returns to Cincinnati for his eighth season.

The NFL introduced on Tuesday that the Bengals will play internationally for the primary time since Taylor’s first season in 2019, heading to Madrid in Week 9 to play the Atlanta Falcons on Nov. 8. The recreation will probably be broadcast on NFL Network.

Here is the lineup of house and highway opponents, listed alphabetically.