Dallas, Texas – The NFL has officially confirmed that the Dallas Cowboys will open the 2026 season against the New York Giants.
The game is scheduled for Sunday, September 13, at MetLife Stadium and will air on NBC Sunday Night Football.
For most Cowboys players, it is simply another NFC East rivalry matchup. But for Corey Ballentine, the game carries a far more emotional and dramatic meaning.
COWBOYS. GIANTS. SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL. 🤩
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) May 11, 2026
NFC East rivals will kick off the NFL's first Sunday night game on Sept. 13 🔥 pic.twitter.com/vhFbNiBoAQ
Ballentine — the cornerback and special teams standout who was re-signed by Dallas to a one year contract in March 2026 — did not hide his emotions after learning he would return to MetLife Stadium wearing a Cowboys uniform.
“It’s hard to describe,” Ballentine said during today’s interview. “I started my NFL career there with the Giants. That’s the team that gave me my first opportunity. Now, seven years later, I’m going back to that stadium as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. It feels exciting, emotional, and humbling all at the same time. I honestly can’t wait.”
Ballentine was selected by the Giants in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He put together a solid rookie season with 26 tackles and two fumble recoveries.
However, he spent only two seasons with New York before being waived in 2020. What followed was a long journey through seven different teams before finally finding stability in Dallas late in the 2025 season.
“The Giants are where I grew from being a Division II kid into an NFL player. I’ll always be thankful for that,” Ballentine added. “But now I’m part of the Cowboys. I re-signed with Dallas because I believe in this system, I believe in Coach Schottenheimer, and I believe in the players in this locker room. I’m going to step onto that field at MetLife with 100 percent determination to help the Cowboys win.”
As a depth cornerback and one of Dallas’ core special teams contributors, Ballentine has earned praise for his professionalism and versatility.
Facing the Giants in Week 1 is already being viewed as one of the most compelling side stories heading into the season opener.
The Cowboys currently lead the all time series against the Giants 78-48-2 and have won 16 of the last 18 meetings.
During the 2025 season, the two teams split their matchups, including a dramatic 40-37 Cowboys overtime victory.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer also expressed his appreciation for having Ballentine on the roster.
“Corey is the definition of a true professional,” Schottenheimer said. “He understands the Giants as well as anyone. We’re very happy to have him with us.”
The Cowboys vs. Giants Week 1 matchup will officially kick off the 2026 NFL season and is expected to deliver plenty of emotion, especially for Corey Ballentine and fans on both sides.
