In preparation for the 2026 football season, the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) has implemented a significant realignment of districts, resulting in larger groupings for all 11-Man classes. This change means that schools will have fewer nondistrict games, with most teams playing only three and some playing just two. The top 16 enrollment schools have been placed into Class 6A, while the next 16 are in Class 5A, and so on. Among the highlighted matchups, defending Class 6A champion Cleveland will open its season at home against Centennial on August 21, and will later face La Cueva in a highly anticipated district rivalry game. Meanwhile, St. Pius, last season's Class 4A runner-up, has an intriguing schedule that includes two nondistrict games against out-of-state teams. The regular season is expected to commence on August 20, 2026, with teams across the state adjusting to the new format and preparing for their upcoming challenges.