NFL ‘Rivalries’ Uniforms: NFC North, AFC South Unveil City-Themed Threads
The NFL's Rivalries uniform series returns with city-themed designs for the NFC North and AFC South, worn just once per season.
The update
The NFL’s second edition of the “Rivalries” uniform series has arrived. Eight teams from the NFC North and AFC South have unveiled city-themed alternate designs and new helmets. This initiative, launched last season, allows each club to wear these special threads for a single home game against a division rival during the 2026 season.
Why it matters
The league is betting on local identity. Unlike previous “Color Rush” campaigns that focused on a single color, these designs draw inspiration from the cities and histories of the teams. The NFL and Nike are collaborating to create these looks, which will remain in the teams’ rotation for three years.
What to watch
Fans will be watching how the league enforces the “once-a-season” rule. The schedule dictates when each team will debut their new look, with the Indianapolis Colts set to wear theirs first in Week 3 against the Houston Texans. The Chicago Bears are the last to debut theirs in Week 16 against the Green Bay Packers.
Sources
- cbssports.com — overview of the uniform series, the 'once-a-season' rule, and specific design details for the Bears, Packers, and Vikings.
- espn.com — schedule of on-field debuts for each team and additional design context for the Bears and Lions.