Report: Eagles to host Falcons in 2018 season opener

The defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles will reportedly kick off the 2018 NFL season by hosting the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday, Sept. 6, at Lincoln Financial Field, according to Philly.com's Jeff McLane.

The matchup would continue the NFL's tradition of having the reigning Super Bowl winner open the season at home since 2004.

There had been speculation that the Eagles would play the Minnesota Vikings in the opener, but McLane added that the NFC Championship Game rematch won't happen until Week 5.

Philadelphia defeated Atlanta 15-10 in the NFC's divisional round this past season. The upcoming opener would be the third time these teams have met in Week 1 since 2005.

The full NFL schedule will be released at 8 p.m. on Thursday. The Eagles have already announced the date for their game in London, England, against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which is scheduled for Oct. 28 at Wembley Stadium.