NFL Preseason: Schedule | Hall of Fame Class | 2025 TV Schedule
The NFL Preseason is the perfect curtain-raiser for the regular season, giving fans their first glimpse of rookies, positional battles, and potential breakout players. The 2025 NFL Preseason promises exciting matchups, long-awaited debuts, and the celebratory Hall of Fame ceremony in Canton, Ohio.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know — from the 2025 NFL Preseason schedule, Hall of Fame inductees, game highlights, and TV schedule to streaming options and how to watch without cable.
What Is the NFL Preseason?
The NFL Preseason is a three-week series of exhibition games held before the regular season. It allows coaches to test out playbooks, evaluate players, and make crucial decisions on final roster cuts.
Key Features of the NFL Preseason:
- Shortened to 3 games for most teams since the 2021 season.
- Undrafted free agents and rookies get significant playing time.
- Starters rarely play more than a quarter or two.
- Hall of Fame Game kicks off the preseason schedule.
2025 NFL Preseason Schedule
The NFL released the full 2025 preseason schedule, starting with the Hall of Fame Game and followed by three weekends of games involving all 32 teams.
Hall of Fame Game: August 7, 2025
Matchup: Chicago Bears vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Location: Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, Canton, Ohio
Kickoff Time: 8:00 PM ET
Network: NBC
Preseason Week 1: August 7 – August 10, 2025
Top Matchups:
- Kansas City Chiefs vs. Minnesota Vikings
- Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens
- Detroit Lions vs. Denver Broncos
Preseason Week 2: August 14 – August 17, 2025
Top Matchups:
- Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots
- San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks
- Atlanta Falcons vs. Miami Dolphins
Preseason Week 3: August 21 – August 24, 2025
Top Matchups:
- Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Jets
- Cincinnati Bengals vs. Cleveland Browns
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Note: Exact kickoff times and broadcasting networks for Weeks 1–3 vary by region and will be updated closer to the date by NFL.com and team websites.
2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame Class
The Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025 is one of the most anticipated in recent years, with several legendary names finally getting their due.
Official Inductees:
- Julius Peppers – DE, Carolina Panthers/Chicago Bears
- Antonio Gates – TE, San Diego Chargers
- Patrick Willis – LB, San Francisco 49ers
- Andre Johnson – WR, Houston Texans
- Devin Hester – KR/WR, Chicago Bears
- Torry Holt – WR, St. Louis Rams
- Steve McMichael – DT, Chicago Bears
Enshrinement Ceremony:
- Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
- Location: Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, Canton, OH
- Broadcast: NFL Network and ESPN
These legends will be honored during the Hall of Fame Weekend, a multi-day celebration that includes fan events, parades, and the legendary Gold Jacket Dinner.
NFL Preseason 2025 TV Schedule
Watching preseason games is now easier than ever with multiple platforms offering live and on-demand coverage. Here’s how to catch all the action.
Nationally Televised Games
| Date | Matchup | Network |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 7 | Bears vs. Steelers (HOF Game) | NBC |
| Aug 10 | Jets vs. Giants | ESPN |
| Aug 17 | Cowboys vs. 49ers | FOX |
| Aug 24 | Chiefs vs. Packers | CBS |
Regional Broadcasts
Many preseason games are shown on local or regional affiliates. Check with your team’s official website for listings.
NFL Network Coverage
The NFL Network will air over 20 preseason games, including live broadcasts and full game replays.
NFL+ Streaming (U.S. Only)
- NFL+ allows fans to stream every out-of-market preseason game live on mobile or tablet.
- Offers on-demand replays, condensed games, and coach’s film.
- Pricing starts at $6.99/month or $49.99/year.
Looking to watch NFL Preseason 2025 without cable? NFL+ or live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV are great options.
NFL Preseason Game Times and Format
Preseason games have slight format changes compared to regular-season games.
Game Format:
- 4 quarters, 15 minutes each
- 12-minute halftime
- No overtime (tie games allowed)
- Coaches may agree to shorten second halves
Player Participation:
- Week 1: Starters play 1–2 series
- Week 2: Starters may play up to one half
- Week 3: Starters usually rest; backups get extended time
Why the NFL Preseason Still Matters
While some fans dismiss the preseason, it remains critical for teams and players alike.
Importance for Teams:
- Evaluate depth across the roster
- Install and test playbooks
- Position battles and final roster decisions
Importance for Players:
- Rookies gain experience
- Undrafted players can earn roster spots
- Veterans return from injury and test form
Many legendary players like Victor Cruz, Arian Foster, and Tony Romo used the preseason to break into the league.
How to Get Tickets for NFL Preseason Games
Preseason tickets are generally more affordable and easier to find than regular season games.
Where to Buy:
- NFL.com/tickets
- Team official websites
- StubHub, Ticketmaster, SeatGeek
Pricing:
- Hall of Fame Game: $75 – $150
- Regular Preseason Games: $20 – $100 depending on team and location
International Fans: How to Watch NFL Preseason Abroad
If you’re outside the U.S., the NFL Game Pass International is your best option.
Key Features:
- Stream all preseason games live and on-demand
- Watch regular season, playoffs, and Super Bowl
- Supports multiple devices
Available in Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and parts of South America.
Tips to Enjoy NFL Preseason 2025
- Download the NFL App to get game alerts, highlights, and injury news.
- Follow your team’s training camp reports for depth chart updates.
- Watch for sleeper rookies and fantasy football gems.
- Tune into announcer analysis — especially for quarterback competitions and defensive schemes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When does the 2025 NFL preseason start?
A: The NFL preseason kicks off with the Hall of Fame Game on August 7, 2025.
Q2: Where is the Hall of Fame Game played?
A: It’s played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.
Q3: How many preseason games does each team play?
A: Every team plays three preseason games, except the two teams in the Hall of Fame Game, who play four.
Q4: Will NFL+ stream all preseason games live?
A: Yes, NFL+ offers live streaming of all out-of-market preseason games on mobile devices.
Q5: Who is in the 2025 Hall of Fame class?
A: Key inductees include Julius Peppers, Antonio Gates, Devin Hester, Patrick Willis, and others.
Conclusion
The NFL Preseason 2025 is more than just a warm-up — it’s a stage for young talent, a test run for contenders, and a nostalgic celebration of football’s history through the Hall of Fame. Whether you’re watching to scout fantasy players or just craving football action, this year’s preseason offers a packed calendar of excitement.
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