Carrie Underwood Returns to 'Sunday Night Football' For 14th Season

Carrie Underwood, a celebrated country music artist, will once again perform the theme song for NBC's "Sunday Night Football" for the 14th consecutive season in 2026. The show's premiere is set for Sept. 13, preceding the Dallas Cowboys versus New York Giants game. A preview of the show open will be presented at the annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on Aug.

6. NBC's announcement reveals that this year's rendition of the theme song will occur in three distinct environments: a recording studio, a cozy music venue, and a packed stadium concert. Tripp Dixon, the creative director of the SNF show open, notes that this season's production has been influenced by Carrie's evident adoration for rock music, which aligns well with the song's rock 'n' roll origins, drawing from Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' 'I Hate Myself for Loving You.'

Dixon emphasizes the blend of rock frequencies from past and present, harmoniously showcased in Carrie's energetic performance, leading to the rest of the game. Underwood herself expresses her excitement for this year's show open, describing it as a new chapter in her "rock star fever dream." She praises the fresh take on the track and commends the team for capturing the essence of 'rock 'n' roll' in a way that resonates with the song's spirit and rock culture, calling it one of her favorite openings yet.