The wait is over. After months of offseason moves, training camp headlines and preseason speculation, the New York Jets are finally back on the field Friday night to open their 2026 NFL preseason schedule. And as kickoff approaches, many fans are asking the same questions: What time is the Jets game tonight? What channel is it on? Where can I watch it? How can I stream it?
\nThe Jets host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, in the lone nationally televised NFL preseason game on Friday's schedule. Jets coach Aaron Glenn has also said he plans to play starters during the preseason opener, giving fans an early look at the team before the regular season begins.
\nWhether you're looking for kickoff information, TV details, where to watch the game, streaming options or simply wondering who is playing in the NFL tonight, here's what you need to know before Buccaneers vs. Jets.
\n Who plays tonight in the NFL?\nFriday's NFL preseason schedule features three games:
\n- Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New York Jets
- Miami Dolphins at Washington Commanders
- Denver Broncos at Atlanta Falcons
The Jets-Buccaneers matchup is the nationally televised game of the night.
\n What time is the Jets game tonight?\nThe Jets and Buccaneers are scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. ET Friday, Aug. 14, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
\n What channel is the Jets game on tonight?\nFans can watch the Jets' preseason opener nationally on NFL Network. Local broadcasts will also be available in select markets, including the New York area.
\n Buccaneers vs. Jets game information\n- Matchup: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New York Jets
- Date: Friday, Aug. 14, 2026
- Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
- TV Channel: NFL Network
- Location: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
The Jets-Buccaneers preseason opener will air nationally on NFL Network. Fans in New York can also find local coverage on WCBS-TV, while Tampa-area viewers can watch on WFLA NBC 8.
\nThose looking for viewing options outside their local market can check streaming and television providers that carry NFL Network.
\n How to stream Buccaneers vs. Jets live\nFans who prefer streaming can watch the game through services that carry NFL Network. Fans can download NFL+ in the Apple App Store or on Google Play.
\nWatch the NFL with a Fubo free trial
\n Are Jets starters playing tonight?\nOne of the biggest storylines entering the game is whether fans will get an extended look at the Jets' starters.
\nEarlier this week, Aaron Glenn said he expects starters to play during the preseason opener as part of the team's preseason preparation plan. While playing time may be limited, fans should have an opportunity to see key players take the field before they are likely rested later in the preseason.
\n"Everybody's playing," Glenn said earlier this week while discussing his preseason approach.
\n What should Jets fans watch for tonight?\nAlthough the result won't count in the standings, several storylines will be worth following:
\n- The performance of quarterback Cade Klubnik
- The first game action under Aaron Glenn's system.
- Position battles across the roster.
- Competition for depth-chart spots.
- Young players trying to make an impression before roster cuts.
Jets-focused coverage entering the game has highlighted Klubnik's play and several roster competitions among the biggest storylines to monitor Friday night.
\n When is the Jets' next preseason game?\nFriday night's matchup is the first of three preseason games for New York before the regular season begins. The remaining preseason schedule will help coaches finalize roster decisions and prepare for Week 1.
\nMaria Francis is a Pennsylvania-based journalist covering trending and breaking topics across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions for USA Today Network. Reach her at mfrancis@usatodayco.com.
\nThis article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: What time is the Jets game tonight? TV channel, how to watch Buccaneers vs. Jets
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