The National Football League is using its Week 1 kickoff slate, running September 9‑14, 2026, to remember the victims, survivors and first‑responders of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Every home team will display tributes to military families and first‑responders, and the words “Never Forget” will be stenciled in each stadium’s end zone alongside regular branding.
Special game‑day elements
Game officials will use a commemorative coin for each opening toss. After the games, the coins will be auctioned, with proceeds directed to charities that support September 11 survivors, first‑responders and ongoing remembrance efforts.
Sunday Night Football, hosted by the New York Giants against the Dallas Cowboys, will feature a prominent tribute. Players, coaches and staff from both squads will wear NYPD, FDNY and PAPD hats on the sidelines, and they will don “Never Forget” T‑shirts during pre‑game warm‑ups.
National anthem and local donations
Broadcasts of the Week 1 games will include live performances of the national anthem from each stadium for the 1:00 p.m. Eastern kickoffs, giving viewers a moment to reflect before the action begins.
The Giants, Jets and Washington Commanders – teams based in the cities most directly affected by the attacks – will each receive a share of a $1 million contribution from the NFL Foundation to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. An additional $250,000 grant will go to 9/11 Day, the nonprofit that encourages Americans of all ages to volunteer on the federally recognized September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance.
Community involvement and international tribute
Across the league, teams are organizing local volunteer projects on 9/11 Day, and the NFL will provide financial assistance to two organizations dedicated to preserving the day’s legacy. NFL Films is releasing a new documentary titled “NFL Films Presents,” which tells the intertwined stories of Philadelphia Eagles GM Howie Roseman, retired New York City firefighter Gary Bulger and lifelong fan Jonathan Reiss, all linked by their experiences on September 11 and the delayed Super Bowl in February 2002. The film will premiere on FS1 and the NFL Films YouTube channel on September 9.
Even the league’s first game in Australia will honor the anniversary. Before the match in Melbourne, a large‑field flag will be raised and members of the United States and Australian armed services will take part in a ceremony at the city’s Shrine of Remembrance.
Why the remembrance matters
By integrating these tributes into its most visible week of competition, the NFL underscores the enduring impact of September 11 on the nation’s spirit and the importance of honoring those who answered the call of duty. The league’s charitable contributions and community service initiatives aim to ensure that future generations understand the historical significance of that day and the acts of courage that followed.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
