So, if you're trying to figure out what time is the eagles commanders game, you've probably realized that the NFL schedule is a bit of a moving target. In 2026, the league is leaning harder than ever into "flex scheduling," which basically means the game time you see on your calendar today might not be the one you're actually tailgating for later.
The most recent meeting between these two NFC East rivals just wrapped up on January 4, 2026, for the Week 18 regular-season finale. That game kicked off at 4:25 PM ET at Lincoln Financial Field. It was a weird one. Honestly, most Eagles fans are still a bit salty about it because Nick Sirianni decided to rest Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley, leading to a 24-17 loss that cost Philly the No. 2 seed.
But you're likely looking forward. For the upcoming 2026-2027 season, the specific dates and times won't be officially locked in by the NFL until the schedule release in May 2026. However, based on the league's standard rotation and the current standings, we already know where these games are happening.
When Do They Play? Understanding the 2026 Windows
The Eagles and Commanders play twice every single year. It's the law of the NFC East. For the 2026 season, one game will be held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, and the other will be at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.
Historically, these divisional matchups almost always fall into one of three specific time slots:
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The "Early" Window: 1:00 PM ET. This is the most common time for East Coast divisional games. If the NFL doesn't think the matchup has "Game of the Week" potential or playoff-altering stakes, it stays here.
The "Late" Window: 4:05 PM or 4:25 PM ET. This happens when the game is being broadcast as the primary national game on FOX or CBS. Last year's season finale was a 4:25 PM start because it had major playoff seeding implications (at least, until Philly benched the starters).
Primetime: 8:15 PM or 8:20 PM ET. We’re talking Monday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, or Thursday Night Football. Given the rivalry's intensity and Jayden Daniels' rise in Washington, don't be surprised if one of the 2026 games gets a primetime slot.
Why the 4:25 PM Slot is Becoming More Common
You've probably noticed that the what time is the eagles commanders game question often results in a 4:25 PM ET answer lately. There is a reason for that. The NFL loves to put "high-interest" games in the late afternoon window to maximize TV ratings.
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With the Commanders finally finding some stability under Dan Quinn and the Eagles remaining a perennial powerhouse, the networks (specifically FOX) have been fighting to keep this matchup out of the 1:00 PM "clutter." In 2026, keep a close eye on the Week 14 through Week 18 window. If the NFC East is tight, the league will absolutely flex these games into the late afternoon or Sunday night.
Watching the Game: Channels and Streams
If you're looking to catch the next Eagles-Commanders showdown, your best bet is usually FOX. Since both teams are in the NFC, FOX holds the primary broadcast rights.
However, there's a catch. If the game is played in Philadelphia, CBS occasionally steals the broadcast if it’s part of a "cross-flex" to balance out the network schedules. For those without cable, the options are pretty straightforward:
- FuboTV or YouTube TV (Best for local broadcasts)
- Paramount+ (Only if the game is on CBS)
- NFL+ (Good for mobile, but usually limited to local/primetime)
- Peacock (If it’s a specific NBC exclusive)
Real-World Tips for the 2026 Season
Don't trust your calendar in August. Seriously. I've seen way too many people drive to Landover only to realize the game was moved from 1:00 PM to 8:20 PM three weeks prior.
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The NFL usually announces flex changes at least 12 days in advance. For the end-of-season games (Weeks 14-18), they can sometimes change the time with only six days' notice. If you’re traveling for the game, always book a hotel for both Sunday and Monday night just to be safe.
Also, keep in mind that the "start time" is the kickoff time. If the schedule says 1:00 PM, the ball is in the air by 1:02 PM. If you want to see the intros and the flyover, you need to be in your seat at least 30 minutes early.
To get the most accurate time for the next matchup, you should check the official Eagles or Commanders website immediately following the May 2026 schedule release. Until then, assume the games will follow the traditional Sunday afternoon pattern, but keep your Sundays flexible.
Actionable Next Steps:
Keep a close watch on the NFL Schedule Release expected in mid-May 2026. Once those dates drop, immediately check the "Subject to Flex" disclaimer next to any late-season Eagles vs. Commanders games. If you are planning to attend in person, wait until the NFL's Week 5 or 6 results are in before booking non-refundable afternoon activities for a game later in the season, as the league's flex scheduling decisions are heavily influenced by early-season team performance.