The excitement surrounding the National Football League (NFL) continues to grow as the league expands its global reach, particularly in 2025. The NFL has announced a record seven international games for the upcoming season, a significant step toward global engagement and popularity. One of the highlighted venues will be Dublin’s Croke Park, which marks a notable addition among the traditional sites.
The 2025 season is set to commence on Thursday, September 4, with the Philadelphia Eagles, the reigning champions, kicking off the campaign. The Eagles will host the opening game against their divisional rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. This match not only showcases the current champions but also adheres to a longstanding tradition where the defending Super Bowl champions start the season.
Excitingly, the NFL is also set to make its mark in Brazil as the Kansas City Chiefs visit the country on September 5 for an international game. The Chiefs, who have secured Super Bowl victories in three of the past six seasons, will then face off against the Eagles in a rematch during Week 2. The Chiefs boast the highest number of prime-time games scheduled for the season, enhancing their visibility and appeal. Of particular note is that they will play on Christmas Day, a testament to their popularity and the league’s desire to feature high-stakes matchups during the holiday.
The NFL season typically features an 18-week schedule where each team competes in 17 games, along with one bye week. The regular season culminates on January 4, 2026, and post-season play-offs are set to kick off on January 10, 2026. This structure accommodates a total of 272 games across the regular season alone, followed by 13 additional games in the pivotal playoffs. The grand finale, Super Bowl 60, will take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, known for its impressive capacity of 68,500 and having previously hosted Super Bowl 50.
An integral aspect of NFL culture is Thanksgiving, where the Lions and Cowboys commonly host games as an homage to longstanding traditions. This year on November 27, the Detroit Lions will welcome the Green Bay Packers, followed by the Dallas Cowboys taking on the Kansas City Chiefs. Completing the Thanksgiving triple-header, Baltimore Ravens will face the Cincinnati Bengals, ensuring a day filled with football fever for fans across the United States.
As the NFL evolves and adapts to changing consumer preferences, it is worth noting that the holiday cheer will also feature two games on Christmas Day, streamed for the first time by Netflix. The Washington Commanders will host the Cowboys, while the Minnesota Vikings will play against the Lions later that evening.
Internationally, the NFL showcases its games in various countries to promote the sport globally. The upcoming season will include games not just in Brazil and Ireland, but also in Spain and Germany. The latter will host its fifth regular-season game, with Berlin being selected as a new venue. Additionally, the Minnesota Vikings will create history by playing in three countries during one season, underscoring the NFL’s ambition to expand its fan base across borders.
The games scheduled in London reflect the NFL’s commitment to the international arena, with a variety of matchups slated between October 5 and 19. The enthusiasm for American football is palpable, as anticipation builds for the thrilling atmosphere of NFL games across continents.
From the fans’ perspective, this future promises engaging narratives, alluring matchups, and prime-time glimpses into American football’s ever-evolving landscape. With significant events like the Super Bowl on the horizon and an avenues for international expansion, the NFL maintains its position at the forefront of sports entertainment and cultural integration. All in all, the 2025 NFL season is poised to be a spectacular showcase of talent, strategy, and global camaraderie through sport.