The Kansas City Chiefs will face the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday, August 15, in the first week of the 2026 NFL preseason at Arrowhead Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET, 3 p.m. CT, and 1 p.m. PT. The matchup will air nationally on NFL Network, while local audiences can tune into KSHB 41 in Kansas City and KCBS 2 in Los Angeles. Fans seeking to stream the game have the option of using fubo, which offers a complimentary trial period for new subscribers.
The Chiefs will be without several key contributors for the preseason opener. Star quarterback Patrick Mahomes will sit out the contest as he continues recovery from a significant knee injury sustained in December. Tight end Travis Kelce, returning for his 14th season, may see limited action during the preseason weeks. The Rams will similarly be without their starting quarterback Matthew Stafford, though backup Ty Simpson is expected to see significant playing time, according to head coach Sean McVay.
Both teams are expected to prioritize roster continuity over extended playing time for reserves and rookies during this preseason matchup. The game represents the beginning of three weeks of preseason action before the regular season begins in September, providing teams with an opportunity to evaluate depth and prepare for the competitive schedule ahead.
