2025 NFL Season Kicks Off September 4: Cowboys vs. Eagles Headlines Opening Week

The 2025 NFL season officially begins on Thursday, September 4. The Philadelphia Eagles will host the Dallas Cowboys in the season opener. This primetime clash launches Week 1 with fireworks.

The Eagles start their Super Bowl defense at home. Dallas enters with major roster changes and new coaching leadership. Fans around the league are ready. The countdown is over.

When Does the NFL Season Start in 2025?

The regular season begins Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. Kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m. ET. The game airs nationally on NBC.

This year’s opener features an intense NFC East rivalry. Jalen Hurts leads the Eagles. Dak Prescott returns for Dallas. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens debut as a new receiver duo. Brian Schottenheimer coaches his first game for the Cowboys.

Philadelphia brings back many stars from last season. Their defense remains tough. Their offense is fast and experienced. The game takes place at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philly.

The NFL has also added an international twist to Week 1. On Friday, Sept. 5, the Kansas City Chiefs face the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil. The game starts at 8:15 p.m. ET and will stream on YouTube.

According to USA Today, this year’s Week 1 features 16 total games. Matchups span four days, ending with a Monday night duel between the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears.

Full NFL Week 1 Schedule and Why It Matters

Week 1 includes several playoff contenders. The Bengals face the Browns. The 49ers battle the Seahawks. The Ravens visit the Bills on Sunday night.

Here’s the full 2025 Week 1 schedule (all times ET):

Thursday, Sept. 4:
Eagles vs. Cowboys – 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Friday, Sept. 5:
Chargers vs. Chiefs (São Paulo) – 8:15 p.m. (YouTube)

Sunday, Sept. 7 – 1:00 p.m.:
Raiders at Patriots (CBS)
Steelers at Jets (CBS)
Dolphins at Colts (CBS)
Cardinals at Saints (CBS)
Giants at Commanders (FOX)
Panthers at Jaguars (FOX)
Bengals at Browns (FOX)
Buccaneers at Falcons (FOX)

Sunday, Sept. 7 – 4:05/4:25 p.m.:
Titans at Broncos (FOX)
49ers at Seahawks (FOX)
Lions at Packers (FOX)
Texans at Rams (CBS)

Sunday Night Football:
Ravens at Bills – 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday Night Football, Sept. 8:
Vikings at Bears – 8:15 p.m. (ESPN/ABC)

Why it matters? Week 1 sets the tone. Fans see their teams in action. Every snap counts. Every team starts 0–0.

The 2025 NFL season is officially underway. Big names are back. Fresh rivalries are brewing. Fans are ready. Let the games begin.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: When does the 2025 NFL season start?

The season begins Thursday, September 4, 2025. The first game kicks off at 8:20 p.m. ET.

Q2: Who plays in the NFL season opener 2025?

The Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field.

Q3: Is there an international NFL game in Week 1?

Yes, the Chiefs and Chargers play in Brazil on Friday, Sept. 5.

Q4: What are the big matchups on Sunday?

Watch for Ravens vs. Bills, Bengals vs. Browns, and 49ers vs. Seahawks.

Q5: Where can fans watch the games?

Games air on NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN/ABC, and YouTube for the Brazil game.