The Jacksonville Jaguars have officially confirmed their transatlantic travel plans for the 2026 season, announcing two regular-season games in London -- a back-to-back stretch that includes a marquee matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles followed by a divisional showdown with the Houston Texans.
The Jaguars' 2026 London itinerary kicks off in Week 5 with the Eagles visiting Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, October 11. After the team's Week 9 bye, Jacksonville will return to England's capital for a Week 10 battle against the Texans at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, October 18. This marks a continuation of Jacksonville's prominent and ongoing relationship with London, where the franchise has become the NFL's most frequent international traveler since 2013.
Entering their second full year under head coach Liam Coen and general manager James Gladstone, the Jaguars face both a logistical challenge and a significant opportunity with these games. Philadelphia represents one of the NFC's elite teams, while Houston is a familiar AFC South rival boasting a high-powered roster. Playing both contests on neutral ground -- with a strategically placed bye week to aid recovery -- gives Jacksonville a unique test as they continue building their identity.
A Familiar Home Away From Home
Jacksonville's connection to London is unparalleled in the league. Since 2013, the Jaguars have played more regular-season games in the UK than any other franchise. The organization maintains a dedicated fan base across the Atlantic, supports a marketing office in London, and has committed to playing at least one game per season overseas through 2030 as part of the NFL's International Series.
In 2026, the Jaguars are doubling their international footprint. The back-to-back London game structure, separated by a bye week, mirrors the approach they used in 2024 when they hosted the Chicago Bears in Week 6 and the New England Patriots in Week 7. This year, the level of competition is even stiffer, underscoring the importance of these matchups.
The Eagles, powered by a star-studded roster and a physical style of play, provide a heavyweight opponent that could define Jacksonville's season. Hosting them at Tottenham early in the campaign offers a golden opportunity to make a strong statement on a global stage.
The Matchups: Eagles and Texans
Week 5: Philadelphia Eagles at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
The Eagles enter 2026 as legitimate Super Bowl contenders, boasting an elite offensive line, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, and a fearsome defensive front. For Jacksonville, this contest will test every facet of the team -- from Trevor Lawrence's poise under pressure to the defensive line's ability to disrupt one of the NFL's most efficient offenses.
The Jaguars' defense, now orchestrated by coordinator Anthony Campanile, will need to perform at its peak. Following significant investment in the defensive line during the offseason, including the addition of B.J. Green II and retention of key edge rushers like Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, Jacksonville aims to stifle Philadelphia's rushing attack and force its offense into unfavorable passing situations.
Offensively, Liam Coen's squad will rely heavily on quarterback Trevor Lawrence, complemented by emerging stars Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr. at wide receiver, alongside a versatile running back committee featuring LeQuint Allen Jr. and Bhayshul Tuten. While Philadelphia's secondary is formidable, it is not impenetrable -- connecting on explosive plays will be essential for the Jaguars to keep pace.
Week 10: Houston Texans at Wembley Stadium
Following the Week 9 bye, the Jaguars will face the Texans at Wembley Stadium in a pivotal AFC South divisional game. Playing on neutral ground levels the playing field, removing Houston's typical home-field advantage at NRG Stadium.
The Texans have posed challenges for the Jaguars in recent seasons, but Jacksonville's roster retooling--with a fortified offensive line anchored by Jonah Monheim and Robert Hainsey--should provide more stability by Week 10. Defensively, corners Jourdan Lewis and Jarrian Jones, alongside safeties Antonio Johnson and Eric Murray, will be tasked with containing Houston's passing offense.
There is also a revenge narrative at stake. The Jaguars dropped a close divisional road game to the Texans last year. With the advantage of a bye week and a London crowd that consistently embraces Jacksonville, the Jaguars will aim to reverse that result and build momentum in the division race.
Logistical Challenges and Strategic Advantages
Playing two London games in a single season is no trivial undertaking. The travel involved, time zone changes, and disruption to normal practice routines all pose challenges. However, Jacksonville's experience managing the logistics of international play -- more so than any other franchise -- positions them well.
The bye week between their two London games is a particular advantage. In contrast to previous years when the Jaguars had to return to Jacksonville between London games, this schedule allows either remaining in the UK or traveling home for a true rest week before their second international contest. Head coach Liam Coen and his staff can leverage this to optimize player recovery and preparation.
From a roster standpoint, the Jaguars' depth along the defensive line and secondary provides flexibility to rotate players effectively and manage fatigue. Veteran presences like defensive tackle Arik Armstead and linebacker Foyesade Oluokun will be critical in maintaining focus and leadership throughout the challenging schedule.
What This Means for the 2026 Season
These London games could heavily influence the trajectory of Jacksonville's season. A split or sweep against the Eagles and Texans would grant the Jaguars impressive momentum heading into the latter half of the campaign. Conversely, losing both would complicate their path to the playoffs.
The Week 5 game against Philadelphia is especially pivotal, offering a national showcase early in the season. London games typically attract strong U.S. television ratings, and a victory over an NFC powerhouse would amplify Jacksonville's stature league-wide. For Trevor Lawrence, performing well on an international stage might help elevate his status further among the NFL's premier quarterbacks.
General manager James Gladstone also views the London games as a recruitment asset. The Jaguars' consistent international exposure helps attract free agents who value the experience of playing overseas. The franchise's global brand has grown significantly in merchandise sales and social engagement as a result of the London connection.
The Bigger Picture
The NFL's international ambitions remain strong, with London continuing as a centerpiece. Jacksonville's role as the league's "Team UK" is firmly entrenched, with games committed in London through 2030. The 2026 schedule, featuring two games against top-tier opposition, is among the franchise's boldest yet.
For Jacksonville, the London games are not just logistical hurdles but opportunities to showcase their growth, culture, and competitive promise. With their roster, coaching staff, and organizational culture built to handle challenges anywhere in the world, the Jaguars will again prove their mettle on an international stage.
Flights locked in, preparations underway: the Jaguars are heading across the pond -- this time bringing two of the NFL's best teams with them. The weeks ahead in London could be defining moments in the 2026 season and beyond.