American Football
Jaguars reportedly block Steelers from 2026 London matchup
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A report has emerged suggesting that if the Pittsburgh Steelers aren't announced as one of the visiting teams in London this season, the Jacksonville Jaguars may be the reason.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette insider Gerry Dulac, citing multiple sources, said the Jaguars "protected" their home game against the Steelers, meaning it would remain in Florida rather than travel to British shores.
Jacksonville's EverBank Stadium is mid-renovation, cutting seating capacity by 50% in 2026.
With fewer seats available, the Jaguars have even less appetite for handing over a game at EverBank against Pittsburgh that, per Dulac's sources, is "guaranteed to be a sellout."
Why the Jaguars have the power to do this
Teams with international fixtures can "protect" up to two of their home games, keeping them stateside.
Jacksonville, per Dulac's sources, have exercised that right with the Steelers matchup, opting to keep it at EverBank rather than ship it to Wembley or Tottenham.
Could the Steelers still play in London?
Technically, there's still a chance. The Steelers have a road game against the Jaguars in 2026, and Jacksonville have two home games in London this season, meaning Pittsburgh is in the conversation.
However, if Dulac's sources are correct, that's now effectively off the table, barring something unexpected.
When will the remaining London teams be confirmed?
The 2026 NFL schedule release is due to be released within the next week or two. An exact date is yet to be confirmed.
The release may be delayed while the league finalises a five-game broadcast package, including a Thanksgiving Eve game, a Christmas Eve game, and a second Black Friday fixture.
All we know for now, as we have for some time, is that the Jaguars will host a game at Wembley, and both Jacksonville and the Washington Commanders will be the designated home teams for a game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
