What Is the NFL Preseason?
The NFL preseason refers to the exhibition games played before the regular season kicks off. In 2025, the preseason begins with the Hall of Fame Game in late July and continues with three weeks of matchups from August 7–10, August 15–18, and August 21–23. Every team will play at least three games, with the Chargers and Lions playing four including the opener.
These preseason games give coaches a chance to evaluate player performance, especially for rookies and those battling for roster spots. Game action is tempered by a focus on developing talent rather than final outcomes.
NFL Preseason Schedule — What to Know
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Week 0: Hall of Fame Game – July 31, Canton, Ohio — Chargers vs. Lions
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Week 1: August 7–10 — includes Colts vs. Ravens, Eagles vs. Bengals, Raiders vs. Seahawks
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Week 2: August 15–18 — full slate of games
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Week 3: August 21–23 — final preseason weekend
NFL Games Tonight — Preseason Action
Tonight marks the first full week of NFL preseason with three key matchups:
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Colts vs. Ravens – 7:00 PM ET, aired on NFL Network and NFL+
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Bengals vs. Eagles – 7:30 PM ET
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Raiders vs. Seahawks – 10:00 PM ET, also on NFL Network and NFL+
Expect more games through the weekend, including Friday and Saturday matchups.
How to Watch NFL Preseason Games
On TV
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National coverage airs on CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network
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Local affiliates may also broadcast games depending on matchups
Streaming Access
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NFL+ is your go-to streaming option in the U.S., providing live out-of-market preseason games, replays, NFL RedZone, and radio streams
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For live TV streaming, platforms like FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream carry NFL Network and affiliates
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DAZN offers NFL Game Pass International, free access via VPN in regions outside the U.S., Canada, and China
Cost of Full Coverage
A comprehensive streaming package for the NFL season from multiple platforms can total approximately $879, though promotions may reduce this cost
Why Preseason Matters for Football Fans
Preseason games help fans stay engaged during the NFL’s quieter months. It highlights:
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Emerging talent and rookies
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Depth chart battles
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New coaching strategies
However, many teams limit starter exposure—particularly seasoned teams choosing rest over risk. Still, each game offers valuable insight into future rosters.
Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Preseason period | Hall of Fame opener (July 31), Weeks 1–3 in August |
| Games tonight | Colts vs. Ravens (7 PM), Bengals vs. Eagles (7:30 PM), Raiders vs. Seahawks (10 PM) |
| TV coverage | CBS, ESPN, NBC, FOX, NFL Network |
| Streaming services | NFL+, DAZN (Intl.), FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, etc. |
| Key benefits | Roster previews, coach evaluations, in-game strategy tests |
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for NFL preseason, games tonight, or ways to catch them via NFL+, this is your go-to guide. Week 1 is underway, offering fans an exciting return to football ahead of the crowded fall schedule.
Stay tuned, but remember—nduwenenseason isn’t the destination; it’s the kickoff.
