Seahawks host Patriots Sept 9 Super Bowl rematch

The Seattle Seahawks will host the New England Patriots on Wednesday night in a Super Bowl rematch to open the 2026 NFL season. The game at Lumen Field marks the third time in league history that the two teams from the previous Super Bowl have met in Week 1. Seattle defeated New England 29-13 in Super Bowl 60 on February 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, California, securing the franchise's second championship. Before kickoff, the Seahawks will raise their second championship banner. The team returns the core of its roster, including quarterback Sam Darnold, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and its defensive line. However, Seattle lost several key contributors from its championship run, including Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III, cornerback Riq Woolen, and safety Coby Bryant. The Patriots have made significant offseason additions to address shortcomings exposed in the Super Bowl. New England acquired wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles and signed veteran receiver Romeo Doubs. The team also invested in its offensive line to better protect quarterback Drake Maye, who was sacked six times in the February loss.