NFL Preseason Kicks Off with 16 Games This Weekend

NFL players showcase their skills during the preseason, setting the stage for an exciting football season ahead.

News Summary

The NFL preseason is set to begin with 16 games scheduled over four days, allowing fans to stream live games through NFL+. Key player battles and new rule changes highlight the excitement as teams prepare for the regular season. Notable matchups include the Bengals facing the Eagles, with increased media engagement expected. Injuries and player transactions will also play a crucial role in shaping the teams as they gear up for the season ahead.

Indianapolis – The NFL preseason for 2025 is set to kick off on Thursday, August 7, with an exciting lineup of 16 games scheduled over four days. Fans eager to watch the action can stream live, out-of-market preseason games through NFL+ on their mobile devices and connected TVs, expanding access for viewers across the country.

As the NFL gears up for the upcoming season, the Hall of Fame Game will provide a head start to the preseason matchup action, with additional games taking place throughout the weekend. NFL+ Premium subscribers can enjoy enhanced features like game replays and NFL RedZone, hosted by Scott Hanson, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the excitement.

The regular NFL season will officially commence on Thursday, September 4, with a highly anticipated showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys.

New Developments and Rule Changes

This preseason introduces noteworthy changes, including the clarification from the NFLPA regarding the use of smelling salts. Players are now allowed to use them during games, with the previous restriction applying only to team employees distributing the substances.

Key Player Battles and Position Competitions

The preseason is notorious for revealing intense player battles as teams finalize their rosters. Several intriguing competitions are drawing attention this year:

Indianapolis Colts: Quarterback Anthony Richardson will start in the opener, with competing hands from Daniel Jones.
Baltimore Ravens: First-round safety Malaki Starks is working at cornerback, while running back Keaton Mitchell returns from an ACL injury.
Cincinnati Bengals: Contract negotiations loom for star receiver Trey Hendrickson, alongside rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart aiming to impress.
Philadelphia Eagles: Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell is making waves and could bypass veteran Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Las Vegas Raiders: A tight competition between Decamerion Richardson and Darien Porter to claim the cornerback starting role.
Seattle Seahawks: Rookies TE Elijah Arroyo and WR Tory Horton showing promise during their performances.
Detroit Lions: A critical battle for QB2 between Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker could determine the backup position as both struggle for consistency.
Atlanta Falcons: The spotlight is on first-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. as they make their debut against the Dolphins.
Cleveland Browns: Injuries cause uncertainty in a four-man quarterback competition.
Carolina Panthers: Year-two quarterback Bryce Young looks to build on last season’s performances, and rookie WR Tetairoa McMillan anticipates his debut.
Washington Commanders: Pro Bowl WR Terry McLaurin faces trade talks amid ongoing contract discussions.
New England Patriots: QB Drake Maye looks to improve his production, pressing for an upgrade in performance.
New York Giants: Freshman QB Jaxson Dart aims to solidify his position within the depth chart.
Green Bay Packers: Rookie WR Matthew Golden debuts in place of injured Christian Watson.
Arizona Cardinals: The team has signed defensive reinforcements in response to injury concerns and performance reviews.

Upcoming Nationally Televised Matchups

Media and Viewership Expectations

The NFL’s media strategy has seen enhancements this offseason, including a potential sale of NFL Network to ESPN and initiatives to integrate fantasy football platforms into its broadcast offerings. With the first games of the preseason approaching, the NFL anticipates strong viewership, showcasing a mix of newly drafted talent and established players as teams prepare for the regular season.

Injury Concerns and Player Transactions

Injuries remain a prevalent concern heading into preseason games. Notable players, such as the Rams’ Matthew Stafford and the Dolphins’ Alexander Mattison, are being closely monitored as teams assess their roster depth. Additionally, there are discussions surrounding high-profile trade requests, including that of Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, as contract talks stall.

The 2025 NFL preseason not only marks the thrill of impending competition but also provides fans with the first glimpse of the upcoming season’s roster dynamics and players vying for significant roles within their teams.