News Summary
The NFL kicks off its preseason with 16 games over four days, providing teams an opportunity to evaluate talent and establish depth charts. Fans can watch through NFL+ and various streaming services. Notable position battles include the quarterbacks of the Colts, Ravens, and Bengals, as well as rookies making their mark. The league is also addressing player regulations and media strategies while gearing up for the regular season ahead.
New York City, August 7, 2025 — NFL Preseason Kicks Off with Key Matchups and Player Battles
The National Football League has launched its 2025 preseason, beginning with a series of 16 games spread across four days, starting Thursday, August 7. Fans eager to watch live out-of-market games can do so through NFL+ on mobile devices and connected TVs, with NFL+ Premium offering access to additional features such as game replays and NFL RedZone with Scott Hanson. The preseason officially opened with the Hall of Fame Game, marking the beginning of preparations for the upcoming regular season, which is scheduled to start on Thursday, September 4, when the Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys.
### Preseason Action and Broadcast Details
Following the Hall of Fame Game, an array of matchups will unfold throughout the weekend, providing opportunities for teams to evaluate emerging talent and establish depth charts. All non-NFL Network games will be available for re-air on NFL Network and NFL+ during this period, giving fans multiple viewing options. Streaming services like YouTube TV and Fubo TV will also carry select games, ensuring widespread access to preseason contests.
### New Player Rules and League Policies
The NFL has clarified that players are now permitted to use smelling salts during games. The league’s recent memo, previously interpreted as prohibiting team employees from distributing smelling salts, has been updated to permit players to use them. Additionally, the NFL continues to evaluate its media strategies, including discussions around the sale of NFL Network to ESPN and integration with fantasy football platforms.
### Notable Player Battles and Position Contests
The preseason is highlighting several intriguing position battles across teams:
– Indianapolis Colts: The quarterback competition features Anthony Richardson, who is slated to start the season opener, and Daniel Jones. Richardson’s performances will be closely watched to determine starting roles.
– Baltimore Ravens: First-round safety Malaki Starks is working at cornerback, showcasing versatility. Running back Keaton Mitchell is recovering from an ACL injury but is expected to contribute once healthy.
– Cincinnati Bengals: Contract negotiations for star receiver Trey Hendrickson are ongoing, while rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart is making a strong push for regular-season impact.
– Philadelphia Eagles: Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell is vying for a starting role, potentially overtaking incumbent Jeremiah Trotter Jr. based on preseason performance.
– Las Vegas Raiders: The team is evaluating Decamerion Richardson and Darien Porter at cornerback, as both vie for the starting position.
– Seattle Seahawks: Rookies tight end Elijah Arroyo and wide receiver Tory Horton are impressing coaches early in camp.
– Detroit Lions: Quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker are competing for the backup role, though recent performances have raised questions about their prospects.
– Atlanta Falcons: First-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. are making their preseason debuts against the Dolphins, aiming to solidify roster spots.
– Cleveland Browns: The team faces a four-man quarterback competition hampered by injuries, complicating roster decisions.
– Carolina Panthers: Second-year quarterback Bryce Young continues to build chemistry, while rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan makes his debut.
– Washington Commanders: Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin faces potential trade talks amid ongoing contract negotiations.
– New England Patriots: Quarterback Drake Maye is under pressure to improve his production following a challenging rookie campaign.
– New York Giants: First-round pick Jaxson Dart aims to secure a significant role within the team’s quarterback depth chart.
– Green Bay Packers: Wide receiver Matthew Golden, a first-round pick, is stepping in for the injured Christian Watson, providing a glimpse of potential depth.
– Arizona Cardinals: The defense has seen new reinforcements signed to address recent injuries and improve overall performance.
### Primetime Matchups and Streaming
Among the highlighted games, the Cincinnati Bengals vs. Philadelphia Eagles matchup will be broadcast on ESPN, with several other contests available on NFL Network. These games are expected to draw strong national viewership, showcasing NFL’s top talent against emerging rookies. Fans can also stream all games via online platforms such as YouTube TV and Fubo TV, ensuring flexible viewing options.
### League Developments and Player Movements
Off the field, discussions continue regarding the league’s media approach and strategic sales, including the potential sale of NFL Network to ESPN. Notably, a high-profile trade request has emerged from Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons amid stalled contract negotiations, adding intrigue to the upcoming season.
Injury concerns persist across the league, with key players like Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and Miami Dolphins running back Alexander Mattison sidelined or limited. These developments have prompted teams to evaluate their roster depth as the regular season approaches.
### Outlook for the Regular Season
The NFL anticipates strong viewership as the preseason kicks off, especially with the focus on talented draftees making their first appearances against seasoned veterans. This period serves as a critical step in finalizing rosters and establishing team chemistry for the coming season, which promises to continue thrilling football fans nationwide.
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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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