Packers get unique bye week, but also 5 mini bye weeks during 2026
The Green Bay Packers will have a shortened traditional bye week during the 2026 NFL season, returning to play on Wednesday night in Week 12 against the Los Angeles Rams. This unusual schedule includes the NFL's first Thanksgiving Eve game and reduces the typical 14-day break to just a few days. However, the Packers will also benefit from five "mini" byes throughout the season, providing extended rest periods between certain games.
- ▪The Packers' traditional bye week in Week 11 is shortened, with a Wednesday night game against the Rams in Week 12.
- ▪The game against the Rams marks the NFL's first Thanksgiving Eve contest and only the second Wednesday game in Packers history.
- ▪Green Bay will have five "mini" byes, including 10-day breaks after two Thursday night home games and around holiday matchups.
- ▪The team will play just two games over a 20-day span during the late-season stretch involving the Rams and Saints.
- ▪These scheduling adjustments balance the shortened bye with multiple extended rest periods throughout the 2026 season.
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