The National Football League (NFL) operates on a meticulously planned calendar that balances excitement, competition, and tradition. The 2025-2026 season promises to deliver thrilling matchups, iconic moments, and plenty of opportunities for fans to engage with their favorite teams. Here’s a breakdown of the NFL calendar and everything you need to know about this upcoming season.
Key Dates and Structure
Kickoff Game (September 4, 2025)
The NFL season kicks off on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with a highly anticipated primetime matchup. Traditionally, the defending Super Bowl champions host the opening game, setting the stage for another action-packed season. This game is often a spectacle, combining electrifying performances and pregame festivities with the first official game of the year.
Regular Season (September 4, 2025 – January 4, 2026)
The regular season spans 18 weeks, during which each of the 32 teams plays 17 games with one bye week. This balanced format allows teams to compete against divisional rivals, conference opponents, and teams from the opposite conference based on a rotating schedule. Games take place primarily on Sundays, with select matchups scheduled for Monday Night Football and Thursday Night Football.
Fans can catch the games live on major networks such as CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN, or stream them online through platforms like NFL Game Pass, YouTube TV, or Amazon Prime Video.
The Playoffs: A Race to the Super Bowl
Wild Card Weekend (January 10–12, 2026)
The postseason begins with Wild Card Weekend, featuring six games between 12 teams. The top-seeded team in each conference (AFC and NFC) receives a bye, while the remaining teams compete for a spot in the Divisional Round. These games are known for their unpredictability, as lower-seeded teams often defy expectations.
Divisional Round (January 17–18, 2026)
The Divisional Round narrows the field to four teams per conference. These matchups typically feature the season’s best teams, offering high-stakes drama and riveting performances. The winners move on to the Conference Championships.
Conference Championships (January 25, 2026)
The AFC and NFC champions are determined during the Conference Championships, setting the stage for the ultimate showdown: the Super Bowl. These games are celebrated for their intensity and often rank among the most-watched events of the year.
Super Bowl LX (February 8, 2026)
The grand finale of the NFL season, Super Bowl LX, takes place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This highly anticipated event is more than just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable halftime show, iconic commercials, and, of course, the crowning of the NFL champion.
Offseason Highlights
NFL Draft (April 24–26, 2025)
The NFL Draft marks the beginning of a new chapter for teams and aspiring players. This year, the draft will be held at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and its adjacent Titletown District. Over three days, franchises will select the best college talent to bolster their rosters. The event is broadcast on NFL Network, ESPN, and other platforms, offering fans a glimpse into the future of their favorite teams.
Training Camps (Starting July 23, 2025)
Training camps are where teams begin to solidify their rosters and strategies. Open to fans in some locations, these sessions provide an inside look at player development and team chemistry. It’s also an opportunity to evaluate rookies and players returning from injuries.
Preseason Games (Starting July 31, 2025)
Preseason games kick off with the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on July 31, 2025. These exhibition games allow teams to test their lineups and offer younger players a chance to prove themselves. While the games don’t count toward the regular season, they’re valuable for team preparation and evaluation.
NFL Calendar 2025 - 2026
| Phase/Event | Dates | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Kickoff Game | September 4, 2025 | Opening game of the regular season. |
| Regular Season | September 4, 2025 - January 4, 2026 | 18 weeks of games, each team playing 17 games with one bye week. |
| Wild Card Weekend | January 10–12, 2026 | First round of playoffs, featuring 12 teams (6 from each conference). |
| Divisional Round | January 17–18, 2026 | Second round of playoffs, narrowing the field to the top 4 teams. |
| Conference Championships | January 25, 2026 | AFC and NFC champions determined, deciding Super Bowl participants. |
| Super Bowl LX | February 8, 2026 | Championship game at Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California. |
| NFL Draft | April 24–26, 2025 | Annual draft event at Lambeau Field and the Titletown District in Green Bay, Wisconsin. |
| Training Camps Open | July 23, 2025 | Official start of training camps for all 32 teams. |
| Preseason Games | July 31, 2025 | Begins with the Hall of Fame Game, followed by other preseason matchups. |
How to Watch the NFL Season
Television Broadcasts
The NFL continues its strong partnership with major networks to bring games to viewers. Regular-season games are broadcast on:
- CBS: AFC games, including Sunday matchups.
- FOX: NFC games and select marquee matchups.
- NBC: Home of Sunday Night Football, featuring top-tier matchups each week.
- ESPN: Exclusive coverage of Monday Night Football.
- NFL Network: Select Thursday night games and comprehensive NFL coverage.
Online Streaming Options
Fans have more ways than ever to watch the NFL online:
- NFL Game Pass: Offers live game streaming, on-demand replays, and access to a vast library of NFL content.
- YouTube TV: Includes major networks that broadcast NFL games, with DVR capabilities for added convenience.
- Amazon Prime Video: The exclusive home of Thursday Night Football.
- Peacock: Streams NBC games, including Sunday Night Football and playoff matchups.
What Makes the NFL Calendar Special?
The NFL’s calendar is designed to keep fans engaged year-round. From the anticipation of the draft to the high stakes of the Super Bowl, each phase of the season has its unique charm. The combination of weekly games, playoffs, and offseason activities ensures that football remains a dominant force in American sports and culture.
For fans, the season is about more than just the games. It’s about community, traditions, and the shared excitement of cheering for your team. Whether you’re watching from the stands, on TV, or via streaming, the NFL season offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the action.
With the 2025-2026 season just around the corner, it’s time to mark your calendars and gear up for another thrilling year of football. From kickoff in September to the final whistle at Super Bowl LX in February, every moment promises to be unforgettable.
NFL Calendar 2025 FAQ's
What date does the new NFL season start?
The 2025-2026 NFL season is scheduled to start on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with the season-opening game featuring the defending Super Bowl champions.
How long is American football?
An American football game typically lasts about 3 hours, though the actual playtime on the field is 60 minutes, divided into four quarters of 15 minutes each. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
Game Structure
Quarters:
- Four quarters, each lasting 15 minutes.
- There’s a short break after the first and third quarters and a longer halftime break after the second quarter (usually about 12–15 minutes).
Overtime (if necessary):
- In the NFL regular season, if the game is tied after four quarters, a 10-minute sudden-death overtime period is played.
- In the NFL playoffs, overtime periods continue until there is a winner, with no time limit.
- In college football, overtime rules differ and are structured as alternating possessions.
Clock Stoppages:
- The clock stops for various reasons, including incomplete passes, going out of bounds, timeouts, injuries, and penalties. These stoppages extend the overall length of the game.
Why It Takes About 3 Hours
- Commercial Breaks: NFL broadcasts include numerous commercials, especially during breaks in play, such as after scoring plays, turnovers, and during timeouts.
- Replays and Reviews: Instant replays and official reviews can extend the time.
- Halftime: The halftime break, which lasts 12–15 minutes, adds to the overall duration.
Youth and High School Games
- High school football games are slightly shorter, typically lasting about 2–2.5 hours, with quarters lasting 12 minutes instead of 15. Youth games often have even shorter quarters.
In summary, while the official playtime is 60 minutes, the total experience of watching or attending a game typically lasts about 3 hours due to stoppages, halftime, and commercial breaks.
How many NFL games are there a week?
The number of NFL games per week varies depending on the phase of the season, but here’s a general breakdown for the regular season:
Weekly Breakdown
Regular Season (Weeks 1–18):
- Thursday Night Football: 1 game
- Sunday Games: Typically 13-14 games (most teams play on Sunday):
- Early afternoon games (1:00 PM ET)
- Late afternoon games (4:05/4:25 PM ET)
- Sunday Night Football: 1 game
- Monday Night Football: 1 game
Total per week: 16 games (during weeks when all 32 teams play).
- Teams have one bye week during the regular season, so the total can be fewer than 16 games during certain weeks.
- Playoffs:
- The number of games decreases as teams are eliminated.
- Wild Card Weekend: 6 games (2 on Saturday, 3 on Sunday, and 1 on Monday).
- Divisional Round: 4 games (2 on Saturday and 2 on Sunday).
- Conference Championships: 2 games (1 per conference, both on Sunday).
- Super Bowl: 1 game (on Sunday).
- Preseason:
- The preseason features 3 games per team across 3 weeks, spread over Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Summary
- During the regular season, there are generally 16 games per week, though this number can vary slightly due to bye weeks.
- In the playoffs, the number of games decreases as teams advance toward the Super Bowl.
Is the NFL going to 18 game season?
The NFL is actively exploring the possibility of expanding the regular season to 18 games. Commissioner Roger Goodell has described this move as a “logical step” for the league. The proposed structure would maintain a 20-week framework by reducing the preseason from three games to two.
Discussions between the NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have commenced at a “very high level.” NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell indicated that while these talks are preliminary, the union is open to considering an 18-game schedule before the current collective bargaining agreement expires after the 2030 season. Any change to the season’s length would require collective bargaining, and the NFLPA is expected to seek concessions related to player health and safety, such as an additional bye week and more natural-grass playing surfaces.
As of now, no official plans have been finalized, and the league continues to analyze the potential impacts of such an expansion. Further discussions with the players’ union are anticipated to address the various considerations involved.
Is NFL all year round?
The NFL operates year-round in different capacities, but the actual games only take place during specific periods. Here’s a breakdown of the NFL’s year-round schedule:
Game Action
Regular Season (September – Early January)
- The regular season spans 18 weeks, with each team playing 17 games and one bye week. Games occur weekly, with a typical schedule of Thursday, Sunday, and Monday matchups.
Postseason (January – Early February)
- The playoffs begin with Wild Card Weekend in January and culminate in the Super Bowl, held in early February.
Offseason Activities
Even after the games conclude, the NFL has several key events that keep fans engaged:
NFL Scouting Combine (Late February – Early March)
- Prospective draft picks showcase their skills for teams and scouts. This event is critical for teams evaluating future players.
Free Agency (Mid-March)
- Teams can sign available players whose contracts have expired. This period reshapes rosters and generates significant interest.
NFL Draft (Late April)
- A major highlight of the offseason, where teams select college players to join their rosters. The draft often serves as a hopeful reset for struggling teams.
Team Workouts and Minicamps (May – June)
- Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamps allow teams to begin preparing for the upcoming season. These practices are voluntary but crucial for team development.
Training Camps (July)
- Official team training camps start in July, marking the beginning of intense preparation for the season. Teams trim rosters and finalize strategies.
Preseason Games (August)
- Teams play exhibition games to test their lineups and give new players a chance to shine. These games set the stage for the regular season.
Year-Round News and Coverage
Even when no games are happening, the NFL stays in the spotlight with:
- Trades and Roster Moves: Teams make significant adjustments during the offseason.
- Rule Changes and League Decisions: The NFL announces rule updates and other policy changes.
- Media Coverage: News outlets provide analysis, predictions, and updates on teams and players.
Summary
While NFL games aren’t played year-round, the league has a packed calendar filled with events, player moves, and preparations that keep fans and teams engaged throughout the year.
Can an NFL player play 18 games in a season?
Yes, an NFL player can play 18 games in a season, but it typically requires specific circumstances. Here’s how it can happen under the current rules of a 17-game regular season:
How a Player Could Play 18 Games
Trade or Signing Midseason:
- If a player is traded or signed by a new team during the season, they could theoretically play 18 games.
- Example:
- Team A has already had its bye week when the player participates in their remaining 16 games.
- Team B trades for or signs the player and has yet to take its bye week. The player could then play in Team B’s remaining games, including their 17th game.
Playoff Inclusion:
- While the regular season has 17 games, adding playoff appearances could push the total number of games higher. This includes Wild Card, Divisional Round, Conference Championships, and the Super Bowl.
Practical Challenges
- While playing 18 games in a regular season is rare, it is possible for players traded midseason. However, it would demand exceptional circumstances, and concerns over player health and fatigue would come into play.
- Teams often rotate players, especially in non-essential games, to prevent overuse or injury.
Future Implications
If the NFL expands to an 18-game regular season in the future, this would become the standard, making it common for players to play 18 games in a single season barring injuries or rest days.
Can NFL players drink during the season?
Yes, NFL players can drink alcohol during the season, but it is typically done in moderation and at their discretion. There is no official NFL rule prohibiting players from consuming alcohol during the season, but there are important considerations and guidelines:
Key Points About NFL Players and Alcohol During the Season
Personal Responsibility:
- NFL players are expected to maintain peak physical and mental performance during the season. Excessive drinking can hinder their ability to perform on the field and recover between games.
Team Policies:
- Individual teams may impose stricter rules regarding alcohol consumption, especially in the days leading up to a game or during team events. Some teams may discourage or outright ban drinking during critical periods.
Game Days:
- Drinking alcohol on the day of a game or shortly before is strictly prohibited, as it would impair performance and could violate team and league rules.
Conduct Policies:
- The NFL has a Personal Conduct Policy that holds players to high standards both on and off the field. Any alcohol-related incidents, such as public intoxication, DUI, or disruptive behavior, can result in fines, suspensions, or other disciplinary actions.
Health and Fitness Focus:
- Many players voluntarily avoid alcohol or limit their intake during the season to focus on training, recovery, and overall health. Alcohol can negatively impact hydration, sleep quality, and muscle recovery.
Team Environments:
- Some team events or celebrations, such as after a significant win, may involve alcohol in a controlled setting. However, players are still expected to act responsibly.
Offseason vs. In-Season
- Offseason: Players often have more freedom to relax and enjoy themselves, including consuming alcohol. However, they must still adhere to the league’s conduct policy.
- In-Season: Drinking is generally less common as players focus on maintaining optimal performance levels.
Conclusion
While NFL players are not banned from drinking alcohol during the season, most prioritize their health and performance. Drinking responsibly, adhering to team rules, and avoiding any conduct violations are critical to balancing personal freedom with professional responsibilities.
Where will the 5 international NFL games be played?
The NFL is expanding its international presence by planning eight international games for the 2025 season. While the exact schedule is yet to be finalized, several locations have been confirmed:
Madrid, Spain: The Miami Dolphins will host a game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, marking the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in Spain.
Berlin, Germany: A game is scheduled at the Olympiastadion, with the Indianapolis Colts designated as the home team.
London, England: Three games are planned, with the Jacksonville Jaguars hosting at Wembley Stadium, and the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets each hosting at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Mexico City, Mexico: A game is expected to be held at Estadio Azteca.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The NFL is planning a game in Brazil, marking a return to the country for the first time since 2005.
Dublin, Ireland: The NFL is exploring the possibility of hosting a game in Dublin, with the Pittsburgh Steelers expressing interest in participating.
These efforts reflect the NFL’s commitment to engaging fans worldwide and expanding the sport’s global footprint.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ opponents for the 2025 NFL season have been determined, though the exact dates and times for each game will be announced in the spring. citeturn0search0
Home Games:
- **AFC North Rivals:**
- Baltimore Ravens
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Cleveland Browns
- **AFC East:**
- Buffalo Bills
- Miami Dolphins
- **NFC North:**
- Green Bay Packers
- Minnesota Vikings
- **AFC South (Second-Place Finisher):**
- Indianapolis Colts
- **NFC West (Second-Place Finisher):**
- Seattle Seahawks
Away Games:
- **AFC North Rivals:**
- Baltimore Ravens
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Cleveland Browns
- **AFC East:**
- New England Patriots
- New York Jets
- **NFC North:**
- Chicago Bears
- Detroit Lions
- **AFC West (Second-Place Finisher):**
- Los Angeles Chargers
This lineup includes matchups against teams from the AFC East and NFC North divisions, as well as games determined by the Steelers’ second-place finish in the AFC North during the 2024 season. citeturn0search3
The official schedule, detailing the sequence and dates of these games, is expected to be released in the spring of 2025. citeturn0search0
What NFL teams are playing in Europe in 2025?
In the 2025 NFL season, several teams are scheduled to play regular-season games in Europe as part of the league’s expanded international series. While the exact matchups and dates are yet to be fully confirmed, the following teams have been announced as participants:
Madrid, Spain:
- Miami Dolphins: Hosting a game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, marking the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in Spain.
Berlin, Germany:
- Indianapolis Colts: Serving as the home team for a game at the Olympiastadion, the first NFL regular-season game in Berlin.
London, England:
- Jacksonville Jaguars: Continuing their tradition of hosting games in London, likely at Wembley Stadium.
- New York Jets: Expected to host a game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
- Cleveland Browns: Also anticipated to host a game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
These games are part of the NFL’s initiative to expand its global presence, with the 2025 season featuring up to eight international games. While the specific opponents for these matchups have not been announced, further details are expected as the season approaches.
Mark Sullivan, the Managing Editor at the Big Blind, leverages his two decades of journalism experience to provide clear, accessible, and reader-friendly content on the gambling industry, catering to both professionals and newcomers.
