Has the NFL season ever started on Wednesday? Here’s the history of the Kickoff Game originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
This NFL season will kick off with games on both Wednesday and Thursday, a departure from the traditional Thursday start. The first Kickoff Game took place in 2002, and the 2026 game will feature the Seahawks hosting the Patriots on September 9. Historically, the Kickoff Game has primarily been held on Thursdays, with only one previous Wednesday game in 2012. The New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs have the most Kickoff Game appearances, with the Patriots winning three of four.
