News Summary
The NFL preseason is set to begin with 16 games over four days, leading up to the regular season opener. Fans can expect intense quarterback competitions and rookie debuts across various teams. The league has updated player equipment rules, allowing the use of smelling salts during games. Trade talks and injury concerns are prevalent, particularly for key players. Nationally televised matchups will be available, and the NFL is enhancing its media strategy to boost viewer engagement as the new season approaches.
New York City, NY – The NFL preseason for 2025 is officially set to kick off, featuring 16 games over four days, beginning on Thursday, August 7. This marks a highly anticipated start to a new season, which culminates with the regular season opener on September 4, where the Philadelphia Eagles will host the Dallas Cowboys.
For fans wanting to stay connected to the action, the NFL offers access to live out-of-market preseason games via NFL+ on mobile devices and connected TVs. Subscribers to NFL+ Premium will also be able to enjoy features including game replays and coverage from NFL RedZone, hosted by Scott Hanson. To cater to viewers, re-airs of every non-NFL Network game will be available on both NFL Network and NFL+ throughout the weekend.
The preseason kicked off with the Hall of Fame Game, setting the stage for additional matchups scheduled over the upcoming days. Fans will be watching closely as intriguing position battles unfold across various teams. Notable contests include:
Quarterback Competitions
In Indianapolis, the Colts will witness a quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson, who is slated to start the preseason opener, and Daniel Jones. Meanwhile, in Carolina, second-year quarterback Bryce Young aims to build on his strong performances as rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan prepares for his debut.
Player Moves and Debuts
Several teams are focusing on integrating rookies. The Ravens are testing first-round safety Malaki Starks at cornerback and monitoring running back Keaton Mitchell, who is recovering from an ACL injury. The Falcons will see first-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. take the field against the Dolphins. In the Packers’ lineup, rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden steps in for the injured Christian Watson.
Trade Talks and Injuries
Amidst these player battles, trade discussions are heating up, particularly for Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin of the Commanders, who is currently facing contract negotiations. Additionally, the Cowboys are wrestling with a trade request from linebacker Micah Parsons as discussions stall regarding his contract. Concerns over injuries are also prevalent, particularly for key players like Matthew Stafford of the Rams and Alexander Mattison of the Dolphins, prompting considerations about squad depth across the league.
New Guidelines in Effect
As the preseason nears, the NFL has updated its rules regarding player equipment. The NFL Players Association clarified a memo that will allow players to use smelling salts during games, although only team staff will be prohibited from distributing them. This rule change highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure player safety while allowing athletes to maintain peak performance levels.
Upcoming Nationally Televised Matchups
As part of the preseason lineup, key matchups can be viewed nationally, with games like the Bengals facing the Eagles scheduled on ESPN, along with several matchups airing on the NFL Network. Fans wanting to catch these games can utilize online platforms such as YouTube TV and Fubo TV for streaming options.
The NFL has also been making strides in enhancing its media strategy, including consideration for selling NFL Network to ESPN and integrating fantasy football platforms to expand its audience reach. The league expects strong viewership to kick off the first games, aimed at showcasing newly drafted talent against established rosters.
As the NFL paves the way for an exciting 2025 season, fans are eager to see how these competitions unfold and what new talent will emerge in the NFL landscape.
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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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