August 7, 2025

2025 NFL Preseason Kicks Off with Hall of Fame Game

News Summary

The NFL preseason has officially begun, featuring a four-day lineup of 16 games that allows teams to showcase their talent as they prepare for the regular season. The Hall of Fame Game initiated the weekend events, with fans able to access live streams of out-of-market preseason games through NFL+. Key player battles and roster evaluations are taking place across various teams, as fans anticipate the much-anticipated regular season starting soon. Additionally, policy changes regarding the use of smelling salts during games have also been highlighted this year.

New York City, Aug. 7, 2025 — The 2025 NFL preseason officially kicked off Thursday, marking the start of a four-day slate of 16 games that showcase upcoming talent and provide insight into team preparations ahead of the regular season.

Preseason Action Begins with the Hall of Fame Game

The preseason opened with the Hall of Fame Game, setting the tone for the upcoming series of matchups. Throughout the weekend, fans across the country have access to live out-of-market preseason games via NFL+ on various devices, including smartphones and connected TVs. These streams include replays and additional features for NFL+ Premium subscribers, such as NFL RedZone with Scott Hanson, offering comprehensive coverage of key game moments.

First Regular Season Matchup Announced

Looking ahead, the NFL regular season is scheduled to start on Thursday, September 4, with the Philadelphia Eagles hosting the Dallas Cowboys. The upcoming weeks promise continued rosters evaluations, player competitions, and strategic adjustments in preparation for the high-stakes season.

Changes and Clarifications in League Policies

This year, NFL players will be permitted to use smelling salts during games, following a clarification from the NFL Players Association. The league previously issued a memo restricting the distribution of such substances, but players are now allowed to utilize them during gameplay to help with alertness.

Coverage and Broadcast Options

Fans will be able to catch re-airs of most preseason games, including those not televised on NFL Network, through NFL Network and NFL+. Several games will be broadcast nationally via ESPN, NFL Network, or streamed on platforms such as YouTube TV and Fubo TV. The league is also exploring new media strategies, including potential negotiations to sell NFL Network to ESPN and integrating fantasy football services to boost viewer engagement.

Highlighting Key Player Battles and Roster Developments

A variety of intriguing positional competitions are underway across NFL teams:

Indianapolis Colts: The quarterback race features Anthony Richardson, who is expected to start the opening game, against Daniel Jones, as both vie for the starting role.
Baltimore Ravens: The team is testing rookie safety Malaki Starks at cornerback, while running back Keaton Mitchell works towards full recovery from an ACL injury.
Cincinnati Bengals: Contract negotiations involving star receiver Trey Hendrickson continue, complemented by rookie DE Shemar Stewart’s opportunities in the upcoming games.
Philadelphia Eagles: Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell has showcased potential to surpass incumbent Jeremiah Trotter Jr., depending on preseason performance.
Las Vegas Raiders: A battle for the starting cornerback position involves Decamerion Richardson and Darrien Porter.
Seattle Seahawks: Rookies TE Elijah Arroyo and WR Tory Horton have been impressive and may influence the team’s offensive setup.
Detroit Lions: Quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker continue to compete for the QB2 spot amid recent performances considered underwhelming.
Atlanta Falcons: Their first-round picks, Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., will make their preseason debuts against the Miami Dolphins.
Cleveland Browns: The team is managing a four-man quarterback competition hampered by injuries.
Carolina Panthers: The focus remains on second-year quarterback Bryce Young, with rookie WR Tetairoa McMillan expected to make his debut.
Washington Commanders: Wide receiver Terry McLaurin is involved in ongoing trade negotiations amid contract discussions.
New England Patriots: Quarterback Drake Maye is under pressure to increase his production in this preseason.
New York Giants: First-round QB Jaxson Dart aims to establish a clear role within the depth chart.
Green Bay Packers: First-round WR Matthew Golden is debuting and will see increased opportunities due to Christian Watson’s injury.
Arizona Cardinals: The team has added defensive reinforcements to address injuries and improve overall defensive play.

Upcoming National Broadcasts and Streaming Availability

Highlighted matchups include notable games such as the Cincinnati Bengals versus the Philadelphia Eagles, scheduled on ESPN, along with several contests on NFL Network. Fans can also access coverage via streaming platforms like YouTube TV and Fubo TV, ensuring broad accessibility for viewers across different regions.

Injury Updates and League-Wide Outlook

Concerns remain over injuries to key players, notably Rams’ quarterback Matthew Stafford and Dolphins’ Alexander Mattison, as teams evaluate their rosters and prepare for the regular season. Meanwhile, reports indicate high-profile trade requests, including a notable offer from Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons amid stalled contract negotiations.

Anticipated Viewership and Fan Engagement

With the preseason games featuring a mix of established veterans and emerging rookies, the league expects significant viewer interest. The initial matchups serve as a platform for showcasing newly drafted athletes and observing how existing rosters adapt and develop ahead of the main season.

As the NFL preseason progresses, teams will continue assessing talent, working through injuries, and finalizing their lineups for the upcoming campaign, with fans closely watching the battles that could determine key roster spots and season trajectories.

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