NFL Schedule This Week: Ravens Head to Rio for 2026 Matchup Against Cowboys
Football fans, get ready for an international showdown! The Baltimore Ravens are set to play a regular-season NFL game in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during the 2026 season. The highly anticipated matchup will see the Ravens take on the Dallas Cowboys in Week 3, according to reports from our media partner, The Baltimore Banner.
The Dallas Cowboys will be designated as the home team for this historic game, which will be the third NFL game ever played in Brazil and the first to be held at the iconic Maracanã Stadium. This marks a significant expansion of the NFL’s international series, bringing the excitement of American football to a passionate new audience.
Ravens’ International Game History
The Ravens have previously participated in two international games, both in London. Their first foray across the Atlantic in 2017 resulted in a 44-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, they found success in 2023, defeating the Tennessee Titans 24-16. This upcoming game in Rio represents a new chapter in the team’s international presence.
Stadium Renovations and Scheduling Considerations
The decision to host a game in Brazil comes as the Ravens are undergoing a substantial $500 million renovation project at M&T Bank Stadium. The NFL typically allows teams undergoing major stadium work to maintain their full home game schedule. This flexibility allowed the Ravens to participate in the international series without sacrificing any home contests.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 NFL Schedule
The full 2026 NFL schedule is expected to be released in May, providing fans with a comprehensive overview of the season’s matchups. This announcement is eagerly awaited by fans worldwide, especially those anticipating the Ravens-Cowboys clash in Rio.
Ravens Offseason Moves and Draft Outlook
The Ravens are coming off a 2025 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2021, leading to the departure of Head Coach John Harbaugh and the appointment of Jesse Minter. The team explored potential trades for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby but ultimately opted to sign free agent Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million contract. They also saw key players like Tyler Linderbaum, Isaiah Likely, and Patrick Ricard depart in free agency.
With the 14th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Ravens will be looking to add talent and bolster their roster for the 2026 season. The draft promises to be a crucial step in rebuilding and returning to playoff contention. You can find more information about the NFL Draft on the official NFL website.
Stay tuned for further updates on the NFL schedule and the Ravens’ preparations for the 2026 season!
