The National Football League (NFL) is set to make its highly anticipated debut in Australia, with the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams scheduled to clash in the league’s first regular-season game Down Under. However, Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie has made it clear that his team will only participate if they don’t have to give up a home game. 
According to reports, the Eagles and Rams are slated to face off at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in October 2026. While the prospect of playing in Australia is an exciting one, Lurie is adamant that his team will not surrender a home game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles are scheduled to have nine home games in 2026, and Lurie is keen to ensure that his team gets to play all of them in front of their loyal fans.
“We are a natural team to play there,” Lurie said. “If there’s an opportunity to be an away team there, we will embrace that.” The Eagles and Rams have international marketing rights for Australia and New Zealand, making them the perfect teams to participate in the NFL’s inaugural game in Australia.
The game also holds special significance for Eagles All-Pro left tackle Jordan Mailata, who hails from Australia. Mailata was drafted by the Eagles in 2018 as a rugby player and has since become a key member of the team. His connection to the game adds an extra layer of excitement to the Eagles’ participation in the historic matchup.
The NFL has previously played an exhibition game in Australia, with the Denver Broncos facing off against the San Diego Chargers in Sydney in 1999. However, this game will mark the first time a regular-season game has been played in the country.
While the details of the game are still being finalized, one thing is clear: the Philadelphia Eagles are eager to make their mark in Australia, as long as they don’t have to sacrifice a home game in the process.
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