Where to Watch NFL Preseason: Commanders vs Patriots 2025 Live Stream and TV Guide

The NFL preseason has arrived, and fans are eagerly gearing up for the first glimpse of their favorite teams in action. This Friday, August 8, 2025, the Washington Commanders face off against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, for their preseason opener. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM ET, and although this matchup is not part of the national broadcast schedule, there are still plenty of ways to catch the game live.

With rosters still being fine-tuned ahead of the regular season, star quarterbacks like Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye, along with veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, are expected to sit out. Still, this game offers football fans a chance to evaluate emerging talents, including rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson, who could be a breakout name for fantasy football players this year.

Where to Watch NFL Preseason Games in 2025

For those wondering where to watch NFL preseason matchups, local broadcasts and streaming services are your best options. The Commanders vs Patriots game will air on:

• WUSA-CBS (Washington, DC)

• Patriots Preseason Network (New England)

• MyNetworkTV (WCTX) – Hartford-New Haven, CT

Viewers can also stream the game live through Fubo with a subscription trial available for first-time users. If you miss the live action, NFL Network will carry a tape-delayed broadcast later in the evening.

Why This Preseason Matchup Matters

While preseason games don’t count toward the regular-season standings, they play a pivotal role in player evaluations, depth chart decisions, and overall team readiness. Coaches often use these games to test play-calling strategies, assess rookie adaptability, and finalize special teams roles.

For the Patriots, all eyes will be on TreVeyon Henderson, the explosive second-round pick from Ohio State. Known for his speed and vision, Henderson could immediately contribute as a pass-catching back, especially in third-down situations. On the Commanders’ side, the focus will be on roster depth and finding hidden gems who can contribute in high-pressure moments.

Expert Take on Preseason Viewing

Sports analysts note that preseason broadcasts can be just as informative as regular-season games—if you know what to watch for. Former NFL coach Mike Vrabel, who recently signed a multi-year deal as the Patriots’ head coach, emphasized the importance of player adaptability and learning team culture during these early matchups.

“These games are where you see who understands the system, who can handle the speed of the NFL, and who can make plays when it matters,” Vrabel told reporters earlier this week.

How to Stream NFL Preseason Games Without Cable

In 2025, streaming options have become the preferred way for many fans to follow their teams. Services like Fubo, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV all offer NFL preseason coverage, though availability can vary by region. For this specific Commanders vs Patriots matchup, Fubo remains the easiest option for out-of-market fans thanks to its regional channel support.

Game Day Essentials

• Matchup: Washington Commanders vs New England Patriots

• Date: Friday, August 8, 2025

• Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET

• Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA

• Live TV: WUSA-CBS, Patriots Preseason Network, MyNetworkTV (WCTX)

• Streaming: Fubo (free trial available)

• Replay: NFL Network (tape delay)

If you’re a fan trying to decide where to watch NFL preseason games this year, remember that local affiliates and streaming services like Fubo are often your best bet for catching every snap, highlight, and breakout performance before the regular season kicks off.

You Must Know:

Q1: Where can I watch NFL preseason games live?
Most NFL preseason games air on local TV affiliates or regional sports networks. Many also stream on platforms like Fubo, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV depending on your market.

Q2: Is the Commanders vs Patriots game nationally televised?
No, it will not be nationally televised. The game will air on local channels in Washington, DC, New England, and Hartford-New Haven, CT, with streaming available on Fubo.

Q3: Will star players play in preseason games?
Typically, star players see limited or no action in early preseason matchups to avoid injury. Expect more playing time for rookies and backup players.

Q4: Can I watch NFL preseason games for free?
Some streaming services like Fubo offer free trial periods, allowing new users to watch games without paying during the trial window.

Q5: When will NFL Network air the Commanders vs Patriots game?
NFL Network will air the game later in the evening via tape delay for fans who missed the live broadcast.