What Happened
The 2025 NFL preseason commenced on July 31, 2025, with teams preparing for the upcoming regular season through a series of exhibition games. The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl victory, hosted the Cincinnati Bengals in their preseason opener on August 7, 2025. This game marked the Eagles’ first appearance since their championship win, where they defeated the Kansas City Chiefs. The matchup was notable not only for its significance in the preseason but also for the return of key players, including Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, who was expected to play several series.
The game was broadcast on the Bengals Preseason TV Network for local viewers and was available for streaming on NFL+ for those outside the local markets. The NFL+ subscription service offers access to out-of-market games, which is particularly relevant for fans wanting to follow teams that are not in their immediate geographic area. This season, the NFL has structured its preseason schedule to include a variety of games across multiple platforms, catering to a diverse audience of football fans.
Key Details
The preseason schedule for the NFL includes a series of games spread over several weeks, with the first week featuring notable matchups such as:
- Colts at Ravens: August 7, 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
- Bengals at Eagles: August 7, 7:30 p.m. ET (Local Broadcasts and NFL+)
- Raiders at Seahawks: August 7, 10 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
The Bengals-Eagles game was particularly highlighted as it featured the reigning champions and was expected to draw significant viewership. For those interested in watching the games, several options are available:
- NFL+: A subscription service priced at $6.99 per month, offering access to out-of-market preseason games and local regular season games on mobile devices.
- DirecTV: Offers a package that includes NFL Network and various local channels, with promotional pricing for new subscribers.
- Fubo TV: A more comprehensive streaming service that includes a wide array of channels necessary for watching NFL games, starting at $85 per month.
The preseason extends through August 23, 2025, with a total of three weeks of games scheduled, allowing teams to finalize their rosters and strategies before the regular season begins.
Multiple Perspectives
The preseason serves different purposes for teams and fans. For coaches and players, it is an opportunity to evaluate talent, test strategies, and prepare for the regular season. Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor indicated that select starters, including Burrow, would see action to ensure they are game-ready. Conversely, Philadelphia Eagles coach Nick Sirianni had not confirmed whether his starters would play, reflecting different approaches to preseason readiness.
From a fan perspective, the preseason is often viewed with mixed feelings. Some fans appreciate the chance to see their teams in action and evaluate new players, while others express concern over the risk of injuries during these less critical games. Additionally, the availability of games through various media platforms has sparked discussions about accessibility and the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting.
Context & Background
The NFL preseason is a critical component of the league’s calendar, allowing teams to prepare for the regular season while also providing fans with a glimpse of the upcoming season’s potential. The 2025 season is particularly significant for the Eagles, as they aim to defend their title, while the Bengals are looking to rebound from a disappointing previous season where they missed the playoffs.
The preseason also reflects broader trends in sports media, with streaming services like NFL+ becoming increasingly popular among fans who prefer flexible viewing options. The NFL’s partnership with various networks and streaming platforms illustrates the league’s adaptation to changing consumer habits and the growing demand for accessible sports content.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As the preseason progresses, several uncertainties remain. It is unclear how teams will manage player rotations and injuries, particularly for key starters. The effectiveness of new coaching strategies and player acquisitions will also become clearer as games unfold. Additionally, the long-term impact of the NFL’s broadcasting strategies on fan engagement and viewership patterns remains to be seen.
Furthermore, while the initial games are set, the evolving nature of player performances and team dynamics will play a significant role in shaping the narrative as the regular season approaches. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how teams adapt and respond to the challenges presented during these exhibition matches.
