August 7, 2025

NFL Preseason Kickoff: Key Matchups and Player Battles

News Summary

The NFL preseason kickoff features 16 games over four days, providing fans enhanced access to out-of-market games via NFL+. This year introduces new rules, including the allowance of smelling salts for players, alongside notable player battles across teams like the Colts and Ravens. As the season approaches, teams are also addressing injuries to key players and preparing for several nationally televised matchups. The league expects strong viewership, eager for new talent to shine in the preseason.

NFL Preseason 2025 Kickoff: Key Matchups, Player Battles, and New Rules

New York City – The NFL preseason for 2025 officially begins with 16 exciting games spread out over four days, starting Thursday, August 7, 2025. This year, fans will have enhanced access to live out-of-market preseason games via NFL+ on mobile devices and connected TVs. NFL+ Premium subscribers will enjoy added features such as game replays and access to NFL RedZone hosted by Scott Hanson.

The first matchup of the regular season is set for Thursday, September 4, when the Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling season of football. The Hall of Fame Game has already taken place, marking the commencement of preseason action, with a weekend full of games lined up for fans to enjoy.

New Rules and Player Policies

In a move to clarify player safety regulations, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has made it clear that players are permitted to use smelling salts during games. This change follows a memo which initially prohibited only team employees from distributing the inhalants, ensuring players have the resources they need during intense matches.

Broadcasting and Viewing Options

Fans who miss any games can catch re-airs of every non-NFL Network game on NFL Network and NFL+ throughout the weekend. Additional coverage will be available through various platforms, including YouTube TV and Fubo TV, catering to a broader audience eager to follow their favorite teams.

Key Position Battles to Watch

This preseason introduces several intriguing positional battles across multiple teams:

Colts: The quarterback competition intensifies as Anthony Richardson is set to start the opener, battling it out with Daniel Jones.
Ravens: First-round safety Malaki Starks is making strides by working at cornerback, alongside recovering running back Keaton Mitchell.
Bengals: Ongoing contract negotiations hold significance for star receiver Trey Hendrickson, while rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart is expected to make a notable impact.
Eagles: Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell shows promise in potentially surpassing incumbent Jeremiah Trotter Jr. with strong preseason performances.
Raiders: Decamerion Richardson and Darien Porter are vying for the cornerback starting position, bringing depth to the defensive lineup.
Seahawks: Rookies Elijah Arroyo (tight end) and Tory Horton (wide receiver) are emerging as promising contributors.
Lions: Backup quarterback competition heats up between Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker, both looking to improve following uninspiring recent showings.
Falcons: First-round draft picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. are slated to make their preseason debuts against the Dolphins.
Browns: A four-man quarterback competition is underway but hampered by injuries, creating uncertainty for the team.
Panthers: Year-two quarterback Bryce Young aims to build on his previous strong performances, while rookie WR Tetairoa McMillan prepares for his debut.
Commanders: Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin is facing trade talks as contract negotiations progress.
Patriots: Quarterback Drake Maye finds himself under pressure to enhance his performance this season.
Giants: First-round draft pick Jaxson Dart looks to cement his position on the depth chart as the preseason unfolds.
Packers: First-round wide receiver Matthew Golden is set to debut in place of the injured Christian Watson.
Cardinals: The team has signed defensive reinforcements to address issues related to injuries and overall performance.

Upcoming Matchups

Several nationally televised games are on the schedule, including a must-watch matchup featuring the Bengals versus the Eagles on ESPN. The NFL Network will also showcase various games, providing ample viewing opportunities for fans.

In addition, the NFL is diligently refining its media strategy, which includes potential sales of the NFL Network to ESPN and plans to integrate fantasy football platforms for an enhanced viewer experience.

Concerns and Expectations

As the preseason kicks off, teams are grappling with several key injury concerns, especially for prominent players such as Matthew Stafford from the Rams and Alexander Mattison from the Dolphins. The league is hopeful for strong viewership, as fans are eager to see newly drafted talent compete against established players, laying the groundwork for another thrilling NFL season.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER

CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.

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