New York, NY, August 7, 2025
News Summary
The NFL preseason is about to begin with 16 games scheduled over four days, starting on August 7. Fans can catch live games through NFL+ and replays on various platforms. Key position battles are heating up as teams prepare for the upcoming regular season, including quarterback competitions and rookie debuts. The anticipation grows for matchups featuring the Eagles and Cowboys as the league makes refinements to player regulations ahead of kickoff.
New York, NY — The NFL preseason for the 2025 season is set to commence with an exciting slate of 16 games spanning over four days, beginning Thursday, August 7, 2025. This marks the traditional kickoff to the NFL season, drawing fans eager to see their favorite teams and players return to the field.
For fans wanting to catch all the action, live out-of-market preseason games will be available via NFL+ on mobile devices and connected TVs. NFL+ Premium subscribers will have the advantage of accessing additional features including game replays and the popular NFL RedZone hosted by Scott Hanson.
The preseason will feature its first game, the Hall of Fame Game, followed by numerous matchups over the weekend leading up to the regular season’s start on Thursday, September 4. This season opens with a highly anticipated clash as the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Dallas Cowboys.
In addition to exciting matchups, the NFL has made changes and clarifications regarding player regulations. The NFL Players Association has confirmed that players may utilize smelling salts during games. Previously, a memo had prohibited only team employees from distributing them, which has now been cleared up for player usage.
Fans will have multiple opportunities to relive the games they may miss, with re-airs of every non-NFL Network game featured on NFL Network and NFL+ throughout the weekend, enhancing accessibility for viewers at home.
Key Position Battles to Watch
As teams prepare for the upcoming season, several intriguing player competitions and developments are noteworthy:
- Indianapolis Colts: The quarterback battle is heating up, with Anthony Richardson set to start the opener while Daniel Jones vies for his position.
- Baltimore Ravens: First-round safety Malaki Starks is making a transition to cornerback, while running back Keaton Mitchell aims to bounce back from an ACL injury.
- Cincinnati Bengals: Ongoing contract negotiations surround star receiver Trey Hendrickson, as rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart looks to leave his mark.
- Philadelphia Eagles: Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell is making strides in his bid to claim a starting role over Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
- Las Vegas Raiders: A tight competition is underway between Decamerion Richardson and Darien Porter for the cornerback starting spot.
- Seattle Seahawks: Rookies Elijah Arroyo (TE) and Tory Horton (WR) are showcasing promising performances, raising expectations.
- Detroit Lions: Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker are competing fiercely for the backup quarterback position, following underwhelming showings.
- Atlanta Falcons: First-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. will make their professional debuts against the Miami Dolphins.
- Cleveland Browns: The quarterback situation remains complex with a four-man competition complicated by injuries.
- Carolina Panthers: Second-year quarterback Bryce Young is looking to build on last year’s success, while rookie WR Tetairoa McMillan is set to make his debut.
- Washington Commanders: Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin is currently involved in trade discussions as he navigates contract negotiations.
- New England Patriots: Rookie QB Drake Maye is under scrutiny to enhance his productivity for the upcoming season.
- New York Giants: First-round quarterback Jaxson Dart is striving to solidify his position in the depth chart.
- Green Bay Packers: First-round WR Matthew Golden will debut in place of the injured Christian Watson.
- Arizona Cardinals: The team has signed defensive reinforcements in light of injuries and to improve defensive performance.
Upcoming Matchups and Broadcast Information
Fans can look forward to nationally televised games including a competitive matchup between the Bengals and Eagles on ESPN, as well as several contests scheduled on the NFL Network. Streaming options abound for fans ensuring easy access to the games, including services like YouTube TV and Fubo TV.
The NFL has also been focusing on improving its media strategy, with discussions surrounding the sale of NFL Network to ESPN and initiatives to integrate fantasy football platforms targeting a broader audience.
This preseason comes with its share of challenges as concerns rise over the health of key players, notably the Rams’ Matthew Stafford and Dolphins’ Alexander Mattison, prompting teams to reassess their roster depth prior to the regular season.
As excitement builds, the NFL anticipates robust viewership during the first games, showcasing both rookie talent and established players as they gear up for the thrilling season ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does the NFL preseason start in 2025?
The NFL preseason kicks off on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
Where can fans watch NFL preseason games?
Fans can watch NFL preseason games on NFL+, as well as on the NFL Network and other streaming platforms like YouTube TV and Fubo TV.
What are some key position battles to watch during the preseason?
Notable position battles include the quarterback race in Indianapolis, Baltimore’s safety transition, and competition for starting roles in Philadelphia, Las Vegas, and other teams.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Preseason Start Date | August 7, 2025 |
| Regular Season Kickoff | September 4, 2025 |
| Live Game Access | NFL+ on mobile and connected TVs |
| Key Matchups | Bengals vs. Eagles on ESPN, Various games on NFL Network |
| Highlighted Positions Battles | Quarterbacks, rookies making debuts, player contract talks |
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Additional Resources
- USA Today: 2025 NFL Preseason Schedule
- NFL.com: 2025 NFL Preseason Viewing Information
- Hindustan Times: NFL Preseason 2025 Schedule
- CBS Sports: Top Games in 2025 Preseason
- ESPN: 2025 NFL Preseason Trades and News
- Wikipedia: National Football League
- Google Search: 2025 NFL Preseason
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Football League
- Google News: 2025 NFL Preseason
- Google Scholar: NFL Preseason
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