NFL Week One Talking Points
Well boys and girls, we made it!
After a seemingly endless offseason, the NFL returns to our screens tonight with the highly anticipated Super Bowl rematch between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots. The Hawks emerged victorious from their last encounter in Santa Clara back in February – hoisting their second Lombardi trophy in the process – and will be keen to get their 2026 campaign off to a winning start. We also have the first ever NFL game to be played in Australia coming our way in the wee hours of Friday morning before a full slate of games over the weekend. So let’s not waste any more time! Here’s everything you need to know ahead of week 1 of the new NFL season.
Super Bowl Rematch in Seattle
As per tradition, the opening game of a new season features the contestants of the previous Super Bowl. In this case we have the Sam Darnold led Seahawks defending their title against Drake Maye and the new look Patriots. February’s encounter on the West Coast ultimately came down to which team made the least mistakes, so with a pair of interceptions and six sacks taken, it’s no wonder that New England’s second year signal caller couldn’t pull off the win. In fact, the Pats were lucky to even beat the Jared Stidham helmed Broncos in the AFC Championship Game to make it as far as a Super Bowl. I expect a similar outcome in Lumen Field for the season opener, especially when you consider that New England will be without dynamic running back Treveyon Henderson. A key matchup to watch as well will be newly minted Pats cornerback Christian Gonzalez lining up opposite star wide receiver Jaxon Smith – Njigba.
Rams & 49ers Down Under
The NFC West rival Rams and 49ers will make history this week as they square off in Melbourne for the first ever NFL Australia game. All eyes have been firmly fixed on Aaron Donald this week and his status for the game. Fans will need to wait a little longer to see the 8 time All Pro Super Bowl champion take to the field however, as he was officially ruled out in order to give him a little more time to fully ramp up to full NFL speed. Donalds’ return to the field massively bolsters the Los Angeles side’s chances of not only making it to a home Super Bowl next February but also of getting their hands on another Lombardi. As for San Francisco – disaster struck during practice yesterday as defensive tackle Alfred Collins tore a tendon in his knee. Needless to say that he has been ruled out for the season, and adding another blow to the beleaguered 49ers. George Kittle’s status remains unknown at this time as well, so you really have to fancy Los Angeles in this one!
Baker Mayfield Gets His Money
After making his displeasure about not being appropriately compensated widely known throughout training camp, Baker Mayfield was rewarded with a pirates bounty of a deal overnight – just in time for the new season. Tampa Bay inked their franchise Quarterback to a three year, $165 million contract extension, which will see him earn $55 million per season. After a strong opening half to the 2025 campaign in which he led early MVP conversations, the 31 year old signal caller’s play fell off significantly, largely due to injuries, and as a result his side missed the playoffs. But with a bevy of offensive talents including the likes of Emeka Egbuka and Bucky Irving, and their main man now locked in for the long term – the Bucs could be a dark horse contender to make a deep postseason run in the NFC.
Gaelic Gridiron Week One Watch Party
What would the NFL in Ireland be without a good old watch party? We’re kicking the season off in style this Sunday, September 13th in Kennedy’s Bar on Westland Row with games on the big screen, a live podcast and some giveaways as well! Join us from 5pm for a few pints and a bit of craic with the growing Irish American football community! Entry is completely free and we can’t wait to see you all there!