There's no exact NFL schedule for the 2025 regular season yet, but it's expected to kick off in mid-May, with possible release dates slated between May 13 and May 15.
While the specific date isn't finalized yet, league officials claim it might be released even sooner if everything comes together.
NFL Eyes Mid-May Schedule Release
Mike North, the NFL's Vice President of Broadcast Planning, divulged on an appearance on the "It's Always Gameday in Buffalo" podcast that the league was eyeing a narrow window for the release.
He mentioned during the interview that the league is probably targeting May 13, 14, or 15 as the NFL date.
However, there's a slim chance fans could see the schedule drop before those dates if league executives give the green light ahead of time.
North added that if a miracle would do the work for the schedule, the NFL would be done on May 7.
Why the NFL Moved the Schedule Release to May
Historically, the NFL dropped its schedule in April. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted all businesses, including the sports leagues, heavy adjustments were made to keep players, fans, and staff safe from infection.
Since that health scare, May has been the new standard—and it brings its benefits with it.
By dropping the schedule after the NFL Draft, league officials have a better sense of assessing storylines, new players, and significant team overhauls that might influence primetime games.
At this point, North said, one benefit of waiting later with the schedule release is "having the opportunity to see what occurs in the draft."
Trades and Quarterback Moves May Influence the Schedule
In addition to the draft, the league is also keeping an eye on ongoing trade talks and possible quarterback moves, such as a close eye on Aaron Rodgers, who has not yet signed with a team.
According to North, the former New York Jets quarterback may sign somewhere, so hopefully it happens before or by the draft day.
Rumors indicate Rodgers may sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which would add some flavor to the Steelers vs. Packers game in 2025—if scheduled for primetime.
NFL 2025 International Games Revealed
Another huge highlight of the coming season is the NFL International Series. Seven NFL franchises will play games overseas, making American football go worldwide once again:
- London: Jaguars (Wembley Stadium)
- London: Jets (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)
- London: Browns (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)
- Berlin: Colts (Olympic Stadium)
- Dublin: Steelers (Croke Park)
- Madrid: Dolphins (Santiago Bernabéu Stadium)
- São Paulo: Chargers (Corinthians Arena)
Key 2025 NFL Season Dates Already Set
Even before the schedule is released in its entirety, several marquee games are already set, CBS Sports writes in its report.
For the first week on Sept. 4, the Philadelphia Eagles will open the season for a Thursday night showdown.
On Nov. 27, both the Lions and Cowboys will have home games as tradition calls for Thanksgiving Day.
With the full list of home-and-away foes already out for all 32 teams, fans are able to make initial guesses and travel arrangements in anticipation of the official schedule release.
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