The 2025 NFL Preseason promises early football action. With the full schedule revealed, fans can gear up for wall-to-wall coverage and key matchups. Several media outlets, including NFL.com, The Big Lead, NewsDrift, and NBC, have released details for the upcoming games. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of Week 1, including how to watch and what to expect.
2025 NFL Preseason Week 1: Full Schedule and Broadcast Details
The 2025 NFL Preseason Week 1 kicks off on Thursday, August 7th, and runs through Sunday, August 10th. All 32 NFL teams will participate, giving fans their first glimpse of the upcoming season’s potential. This initial week serves as a crucial evaluation period for coaches and players alike, setting the stage for roster decisions and strategic adjustments.
Viewing Options: How to Watch
Fans have multiple options for watching the games. According to NFL.com, games will be broadcast on NFL Network and NFL+. Local stations will also carry some games, providing regional coverage. For those seeking comprehensive access, NFL+ offers live, out-of-market preseason games on mobile and connected TV devices. NFL+ Premium provides additional features, including NFL RedZone, enhancing the viewing experience for dedicated fans.
Thursday, August 7th: Primetime Kickoffs
Thursday features two high-profile matchups to start the preseason. The Indianapolis Colts will face the Baltimore Ravens at 7 p.m. ET, with coverage available on NFL Network and NFL+. This game offers an early look at both teams’ developing strategies and player performances. Following that, the Las Vegas Raiders will take on the Seattle Seahawks at 10 p.m. ET, also on NFL Network and NFL+. These primetime games provide national exposure and set the tone for the rest of the week.
Friday, August 8th: Browns vs. Panthers
Friday’s schedule includes a single nationally televised game. The Cleveland Browns will play against the Carolina Panthers at 7 p.m. ET, broadcast on NFL Network and NFL+. This game presents an opportunity to assess the Browns’ revamped roster and the Panthers’ ongoing development. Both teams will be looking to establish momentum heading into the regular season. The Big Lead highlights this game as a key early-season test for both franchises.
Saturday, August 9th: A Day of Football
Saturday is the busiest day of Week 1, with multiple games scheduled throughout the day. According to NewsDrift, the New York Giants will face the Buffalo Bills at 1 p.m. ET, followed by the Houston Texans against the Minnesota Vikings at 4 p.m. ET. The day culminates with the New York Jets taking on the Green Bay Packers at 8 p.m. ET. All three games will be available on NFL Network and NFL+.
Giants vs. Bills
The Giants-Bills matchup offers a chance to see how the Giants’ offense is evolving and how the Bills are adjusting their defense. Both teams are expected to use this game to evaluate young talent and test new schemes.
Texans vs. Vikings
The Texans-Vikings game will be a key indicator of how well the Texans have integrated their new acquisitions and how the Vikings are progressing under their coaching staff. This game could provide valuable insights into both teams’ potential for the upcoming season.
Jets vs. Packers
The Jets-Packers game is particularly intriguing, given the recent history between the two teams. This game will be closely watched to see how both quarterbacks perform and how the teams match up strategically. NBC anticipates high viewership for this primetime matchup.
Sunday, August 10th: Concluding Week 1
Week 1 concludes on Sunday with two more nationally televised games. The Miami Dolphins will play against the Chicago Bears at 1 p.m. ET, followed by the New Orleans Saints against the Los Angeles Chargers at 4 p.m. ET. Both games will be broadcast on NFL Network and NFL+.
Dolphins vs. Bears
The Dolphins-Bears game will be an opportunity to assess the Dolphins’ high-powered offense and the Bears’ defensive improvements. This game could be a high-scoring affair, showcasing the strengths of both teams.
Saints vs. Chargers
The Saints-Chargers game will provide insights into the Saints’ offensive strategies and the Chargers’ defensive capabilities. Both teams will be looking to establish a strong foundation for the season ahead. This matchup is crucial for evaluating player performance and tactical execution.
Preseason Access: NFL+ and NFL+ Premium
NFL+ offers extensive access to live, out-of-market preseason games, allowing fans to follow their favorite teams regardless of location. The service is available on mobile and connected TV devices, providing flexibility and convenience. For an enhanced experience, NFL+ Premium includes additional features such as NFL RedZone, offering comprehensive coverage of every scoring play from every game. This premium option is ideal for fans who want to stay fully immersed in the preseason action, ensuring they don’t miss any critical moments.
Early Football: Key Takeaways
The 2025 NFL Preseason Week 1 provides a crucial opportunity for teams to evaluate talent, refine strategies, and build momentum. With games broadcast on NFL Network, NFL+, and local stations, fans have numerous options to follow the action. Key matchups throughout the week will offer valuable insights into the potential of each team, setting the stage for an exciting regular season. The detailed schedule and broadcast information ensure fans can plan accordingly and enjoy the start of the 2025 NFL season.
