The NFL will introduce new balls starting on the 18th match day. The league wants to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States with this move.

The NFL plans to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America in 2026 with specially embossed footballs. The balls will feature the America 250 logo and will debut in Week 18 on January 3 and 4, 2026. They will be used until Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara and throughout the entire season.

As part of a partnership with the US Semiquincentennial Commission, field markings will also honor the anniversary. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said, “The NFL is proud to participate in America’s 250th anniversary. The history of the NFL reflects the history of America.”

The measure links league history with national identity and is intended to remind fans of this without changing the game. The partnership was announced in 2021 and is intended to underscore the NFL as a cultural symbol of resilience, innovation, and teamwork.

250th birthday of the USA: More teams could follow

The Semiquincentennial anniversary marks the 250th anniversary of the 1776 Declaration of Independence and will be celebrated nationwide. The NFL plans to play a central role, possibly with additional initiatives yet to be unveiled.

Other major US sports leagues such as MLB and NBA may launch similar initiatives to support the national event.

Teams have already received the special balls to prepare for the change, allowing for seamless integration into the season.