Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 25
Nike Unveils 8 New NFL Rivalries Uniforms for 2026 as Sales Open Sept. 1
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 25

Nike Unveils 8 New NFL Rivalries Uniforms for 2026 as Sales Open Sept. 1

3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 25

Summary

  • Eight new Nike "Rivalries" uniform sets were revealed for NFC North and AFC South teams, expanding the NFL alternate-jersey program launched in 2025.
  • Sept. 1 is the retail launch date across NFL Shop, Nike, Fanatics and team stores, with Nike saying Rivalries has become Fanatics' best-selling merchandise release to date.
  • Each team can wear its Rivalries look once per season; the new sets debut from Sept. 27 through Dec. 25, including Bears-Packers on Christmas and Vikings-Lions on Dec. 20.
  • The 2025 AFC East and NFC West uniforms remain in use, and Seahawks-Rams on Christmas is set to become the first game featuring two teams in Rivalries uniforms.
  • The program is designed to tie uniforms to local identity and divisional matchups, echoing the NBA's City Edition and MLB's City Connect concepts.

Insights

Are the NFL's new Rivalries uniforms a genuine tribute to local city culture, or just a calculated merchandise cash grab by Fanatics?
With the Colts unveiling their design today, will these streetwear-inspired Rivalries uniforms rival classic throwbacks or face massive fan backlash?
How much influence did local icons like Big Sean really have in shaping these highly anticipated 2026 NFL Rivalries uniforms?