The NFL is taking its show global in 2026, and for five teams, that means racking up serious frequent flyer miles. With games scheduled in Australia, Brazil, and Central Europe, the league's travel demands have hit a new high. Leading the pack? The San Francisco 49ers, who will log a staggering 38,105 miles this season.
The 49ers' longest trek takes them to Australia to face the Rams, but that's just the start. They also have three cross-country trips to the East Coast for games against the Giants and Falcons, plus a jaunt to the heartland for matchups with the Cowboys and Chiefs. And as if that weren't enough, they'll squeeze in an extra international game in Mexico. Some fans think the NFL is making the 49ers pay for coach Kyle Shanahan's past travel complaints, but the schedule is what it is.
The Rams and Texans: Close Behind
The Los Angeles Rams are second on the mileage list at 34,847 miles. Their itinerary includes the Australia game, plus road trips to Philadelphia, Washington, and Tampa Bay — three East Coast stops that add up fast. The Houston Texans (28,470 miles) have nine away games, including a London showdown. They'll also head north to Green Bay, west to Los Angeles, and hit the Mid-Atlantic for games against the Eagles and Commanders.
Cowboys and Patriots: International Flavor
The Dallas Cowboys (27,980 miles) open their season in Brazil against the Ravens, then crisscross the country for games against the Rams, Seahawks, and NFC East rivals. They'll also fly to Green Bay and Indianapolis. The New England Patriots (27,590 miles) trade a Detroit road game for a trip to Munich, Germany, then travel to the opposite coast to face the Chargers. Add in games at Seattle, Miami, and Jacksonville, and the Patriots will visit all four corners of the U.S.
Will Travel Fatigue Affect Performance?
All that time in the air raises questions about how teams will hold up. The NFL's international push mirrors the expansion seen in other sports, like the recent NCAA tournament expansion to 76 teams, but football's physical toll makes travel a bigger factor. Coaches will need to manage rest and recovery carefully, especially for teams with multiple long-haul flights.
For the 49ers, Rams, Texans, Cowboys, and Patriots, 2026 is a marathon — both on the field and in the air. Fans should pack their patience, because these teams will be living out of suitcases.
