The NFL preseason is back for 2025, bringing with it three full weeks of competitive warmups, player evaluations, and must-see action before the regular season kicks off. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a fantasy football manager, or a bettor looking for early insights, the preseason offers a rare glimpse at depth players, rookies, and emerging storylines. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s NFL preseason schedule.
When Does the 2025 NFL Preseason Start and End?
The 2025 NFL preseason officially begins with the Hall of Fame Game on Thursday, July 31, in Canton, Ohio. This highly anticipated exhibition game opens the curtain for preseason action across the league.
Following the Hall of Fame Game, the rest of the NFL’s preseason is spread across three structured weeks:
Week 1: August 7–10
Week 2: August 14–17
Week 3: August 21–23
Each NFL team is scheduled to play three preseason games, except for the two participating in the Hall of Fame Game, who will play a fourth. These games are critical for coaches and front offices looking to finalize their 53-man rosters and evaluate player performance in game scenarios.
Why the NFL Preseason Schedule Matters in 2025
Unlike regular-season games, the preseason is all about player development, depth analysis, and strategic fine-tuning. For fans, it’s a chance to watch rookies make their debut, fringe players battle for roster spots, and coaching philosophies begin to take shape.
Here’s why the 2025 preseason is particularly intriguing:
New coaching regimes are taking over in multiple franchises, introducing fresh systems.
Quarterback competitions are heating up, especially with high-profile rookies entering the league.
Injury comebacks will be closely monitored as veteran players return to action.
Fantasy football implications begin to emerge with early hints at depth chart shifts.
Even though the scores don’t count, the implications absolutely do. The preseason is also a favorite time for savvy sports bettors who rely on insider information like quarterback rotations and coaching patterns—data that’s hard to quantify in the regular season.
Key Matchups to Watch in NFL Preseason Week 1
The first full week of preseason, running from August 7 to August 10, features a variety of compelling matchups:
Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Seattle Seahawks
Detroit Lions vs. Atlanta Falcons
Cleveland Browns vs. Carolina Panthers
New York Giants vs. Buffalo Bills
Dallas Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Rams
Miami Dolphins vs. Chicago Bears
These games will offer an early look at draft picks, free agent additions, and new offensive or defensive schemes. While many stars will play limited snaps—or none at all—the depth on display often sets the tone for the regular season.
How to Watch the 2025 NFL Preseason Games
Fans will have several ways to watch preseason games this year:
National TV Broadcasts will carry a select number of matchups, particularly in Week 1.
Local TV Affiliates will air games regionally, depending on the team’s media deals.
Streaming Platforms will provide access to out-of-market games via NFL-focused services.
These games are also expected to be available for replay, allowing fans to catch every snap, especially for teams not in their local market.
What Happens After the Preseason?
The preseason concludes on August 23, and all teams must reduce their rosters to 53 players by August 26. These cuts are often dramatic, with surprise releases and key additions to practice squads.
The regular season officially begins on Thursday, September 4, when the Philadelphia Eagles, reigning Super Bowl LIX champions, host their division rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. This game will mark the start of the 2025 NFL regular season and kick off a packed fall of football action.
NFL fans, analysts, and fantasy football players alike should keep a close eye on the 2025 NFL preseason schedule—not just for the games, but for what they reveal about the season to come.
You Must Know:
What are the dates for the 2025 NFL preseason?
The 2025 NFL preseason starts with the Hall of Fame Game on July 31 and ends on August 23, spanning four weekends including three official preseason weeks.
How many games does each NFL team play in the preseason?
Every NFL team plays three preseason games, except for the two teams participating in the Hall of Fame Game, who each play four.
Do starters play in NFL preseason games?
Starters may play sparingly—often a series or two in Week 2—but many coaches prioritize player safety and use these games to evaluate backups and rookies.
How can I watch NFL preseason games?
Preseason games are available via national broadcasters, local affiliate stations, and NFL streaming services that offer live and on-demand coverage.
Why is the preseason important for NFL teams?
Preseason games help teams evaluate talent, test playbooks, and prepare for the regular season. It’s also a critical time for players on the roster bubble to prove their value.
When does the 2025 NFL regular season begin?
The 2025 regular season begins on Thursday, September 4, with the Eagles hosting the Cowboys in the kickoff game.
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