The NFL's release of the 2026 season schedule has sparked excitement and concern among fans, particularly regarding the strength of their favorite teams' schedules. Leading the pack, the Arizona Cardinals have the hardest schedule, with a strength of schedule rating of .538. They will have a challenging start, facing six road games in their first nine fixtures, including tough matchups against the Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs. Following them are the Miami Dolphins, whose revamped roster and new head coach, Jeff Hafley, face a strength of schedule of .542. The Dolphins' early games include matchups against formidable opponents like the San Francisco 49ers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Los Angeles Chargers come next with a strength of schedule of .522, facing critical road games against the Buffalo Bills and Seattle Seahawks. The Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Rams round out the top five, with the Cowboys having six prime-time games and the Rams facing four playoff teams in their initial games. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, the tough schedules will test their resilience and determination.