The 2025 NFL preseason arrives with more than just warmups and walk-throughs. It’s where draft picks, veterans on the edge, and new systems are tested under pressure. While the stakes aren’t in the standings, these games hold weight in roster battles and system installs.
For fans, it’s a sneak peek at positional depth and potential breakout performers. For teams, it’s three weeks of evaluation that shape everything leading into Week 1 of the regular season. Across each slate, several matchups stand out for their intensity, intrigue, or transformation.
Key Matchups in Week 1
The opening 2025 NFL week offers first glimpses of offseason changes and developmental progress. While starters see limited time, competition is fierce among backups and special teams units.
Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens – August 7
Anthony Richardson headlines a young Colts offense that aims to build timing and consistency. With fresh personnel in the receiving corps, this is a soft test of chemistry before the real pressure begins.
Baltimore under John Harbaugh treats preseason reps seriously. Their record in August speaks to structure and buy-in, with deep units on both sides of the ball showing discipline early.
Cincinnati Bengals at Philadelphia Eagles – August 7
The Bengals are focused on protecting their franchise quarterback, which makes this a key test for their offensive line depth. Expect intense reps from backup tackles and a close look at interior combinations.
The Eagles, fresh off a championship, are deep at nearly every position. Secondary play will be under scrutiny as multiple cornerbacks battle for the final roster spots. By keeping track of the latest NFL news, you can stay ahead of last-minute roster updates and injury reports that could shift which units see the most game action.
Las Vegas Raiders at Seattle Seahawks – August 7
This game offers a clear look at two franchises in very different phases. The Raiders are leaning heavily on youth, and this is an early test for their rookie class under live speed.
Seattle, meanwhile, is hunting for consistency behind Geno Smith. With quarterback depth a question, this is a spotlight opportunity for their No. 2 and No. 3 passers to separate.
Miami Dolphins at Chicago Bears – August 10
Miami’s offense thrives on speed, and this game will test how well that translates through the second and third units. Receiver depth and special teams explosiveness will be in focus throughout.
For the Bears, top pick Caleb Williams may see limited snaps, but protection schemes and route timing will still undergo scrutiny. Wide receiver separation and offensive line technique should stand out early.
Storylines to Watch in Week 2
Week 2 is often the most revealing. Players begin to settle into their roles, and play-calling expands just enough to evaluate execution.
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks – August 15
The Chiefs continue to emphasize tempo, and even their reserves tend to operate with structure. This game will help define wide receiver depth and reveal how well the offensive line performs without starters. Online platforms like FanDuel often provide early lines during exhibition slates. Games like this draw interest around FanDuel preseason odds, particularly when they involve high-profile depth battles.
Seattle’s defense faces a challenge in handling pace and variety. This matchup becomes a useful measuring stick for the back end of the linebacker group and secondary responsibilities.
Green Bay Packers at Indianapolis Colts – August 16
Green Bay uses the preseason to flex its depth along the line of scrimmage. Their approach to time of possession is methodical, and this game will highlight physicality over flash.
For the Colts, defensive rotations will be tested in space. If Indianapolis wants to close the gap in the AFC South, these game-speed evaluations at linebacker and safety are vital.
Final Tune-Ups in Week 3
Week 3 is where rosters get finalized and special teams units are tested in full. Execution matters, and tempo begins to resemble the intensity of the NFL regular-season.
Philadelphia Eagles at New York Jets – August 22
Philadelphia brings rare depth at edge rusher and linebacker, and this game offers another opportunity to evaluate their rotation. Expect situational packages even in limited snaps.
The Jets continue to weigh offensive line combinations, and this contest may tilt based on communication in pass protection. Running back competition remains open and should provide high-effort reps.
Minnesota Vikings at Tennessee Titans – August 22
The Vikings are implementing changes defensively, and this game helps identify which players can adjust in live action. Secondary communication and tackling angles will be under scrutiny.
For the Titans, quarterback play behind the starter is still unsettled. This is the moment for one of their backups to seize control heading into the final cutdown week.
Jacksonville Jaguars at Miami Dolphins – August 22
This in-state matchup carries extra weight for the Jaguars, who are still evaluating defensive depth across all three levels. Expect quick defensive rotations and a focus on tackling efficiency.
The Dolphins, looking to refine roster edges, will use this game to stress-test communication across special teams and nickel packages. Attention will center on how cleanly the roster performs with limited time left.
Buffalo Bills at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – August 22
The Bills are chasing consistency at the skill positions, especially at wide receiver beyond the top two options. This is a key test for young targets working to build trust with the second-string quarterbacks.
Tampa Bay remains unsettled at quarterback, and every snap counts in shaping their decision. Pressure packages and pre-snap reads will be a point of focus for both staff and fans.
These Preseason Games Still Matter
The NFL preseason isn’t for hype—it’s for decisions. Coaches evaluate who picks up schemes, who plays fast under pressure, and who elevates their unit. These August games quietly shape Week 1 lineups and often determine which role players stick around.
When depth wins, so do franchises with strong foundations. The matchups above reflect more than training reps—they’re early hints of how serious contenders are approaching 2025.
