Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers will open their 2026 NFL seasons on Sunday, September 13, when Atlanta travels to Acrisure Stadium for a Week 1 matchup. The game begins a new era for both franchises, with Mike McCarthy making his regular-season debut as Pittsburgh's head coach and Kevin Stefanski taking charge of Atlanta.
When is Atlanta Falcons vs Pittsburgh Steelers?
The game will be played on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Kickoff: 10:00 a.m. PT, 12:00 p.m. CT and 1:00 p.m. ET.
U.S. broadcast: FOX.
Where to watch Atlanta Falcons vs Pittsburgh Steelers in the USA?
FOX will broadcast the game in the United States. The matchup is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET, 12:00 p.m. CT and 10:00 a.m. PT. NFL+ Premium will also provide an option to watch the game on supported mobile devices in the United States.
Atlanta Falcons vs Pittsburgh Steelers preview
Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2026 season after finishing 10-7 in 2025 and winning the AFC North. The team begins a new chapter under Mike McCarthy, who will coach his first regular-season game with the franchise at Acrisure Stadium.
Aaron Rodgers is one of the biggest storylines for Pittsburgh. The veteran quarterback takes over the offense and will have new weapons including DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., while Pat Freiermuth remains an important target in the passing game.
The Steelers will also look to Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle to establish the rushing attack and help create balance around Rodgers.
Atlanta Falcons finished 8-9 last season and now begin a new era under Kevin Stefanski. The Falcons have significant offensive talent, including running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts.
The quarterback situation changed shortly before the game. Tua Tagovailoa has been ruled out, and Cooper Rush will start for Atlanta against Pittsburgh.
That change puts additional pressure on Atlanta's running game and its skill-position players. Robinson could have an especially important role as the Falcons look to control the clock and keep Pittsburgh's pass rush from dictating the game.
For Pittsburgh, T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith will be key players to watch against Atlanta's offense. The Steelers will look to generate pressure while their secondary handles weapons such as London and Pitts.
Pittsburgh also owns a strong historical advantage in the series. The Steelers won the most recent meeting, defeating Atlanta 18-10 in the 2024 season.
Game information
Game: Atlanta Falcons vs Pittsburgh Steelers
Week: NFL Week 1, 2026
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026
PT: 10:00 a.m.
CT: 12:00 p.m.
ET: 1:00 p.m.
Stadium: Acrisure Stadium
U.S. broadcast: FOX
Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers enter Week 1 with new head coaches and important changes on both sides of the ball. With Aaron Rodgers leading Pittsburgh and Cooper Rush stepping in for Atlanta, the season opener should provide an early test for both teams.