NFL might do this scheduling favor for the 49ers to help offset team's record-setting travel in 2026
CBS Sports
by
John Breech
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The San Francisco 49ers are set to face an unprecedented travel challenge in the 2026 NFL season, with their international games against the Rams in Australia and a December visit to Mexico City. This schedule could push them to accumulate over 38,100 miles, potentially breaking the record for the most traveled team in league history. However, the NFL has reportedly agreed to provide scheduling favors later in the season to ease this burden. General Manager John Lynch confirmed that while specifics are unclear, the 49ers may receive a favorable late-season schedule similar to their 2025 experience, which included a Week 14 bye and three of four final games at home.
The 49ers’ travel-heavy schedule includes two international trips and cross-country road games against the Atlanta Falcons and New York Giants. If these are combined into a single road trip, it could reduce their mileage by nearly 4,000 miles. Despite this potential assistance, Lynch acknowledges the challenges of such extensive travel but remains optimistic about the team’s ability to adapt and succeed.
This situation highlights how NFL scheduling can significantly impact a team’s performance. For sports fans and fantasy football players, understanding these factors could influence predictions and expectations for the 49ers’ season. The combination of international exposure and strategic schedule adjustments adds an intriguing layer to their 2026 campaign, making it a story worth following for both the challenges and opportunities it presents.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/26/2026