As the summer sun starts to cast its warm glow over football fields across America, the excitement for the 2024 NFL Preseason is palpable. With the official schedule just released, fans are gearing up for an exhilarating set of games that not only kicks off the football season but also showcases the future stars of the NFL. Whether you’re a long-time die-hard supporter or a new fan eager to catch the action, this year’s preseason promises to deliver unforgettable moments and storylines.
What to Expect from the 2024 NFL Preseason
The NFL Preseason is more than just a series of exhibition games; it’s a chance for teams to evaluate their rosters, introduce new talent, and sharpen their skills before the regular season. This year, the NFL Network will air an impressive 21 live preseason games, packed with thrilling matchups and rookie showcases, ensuring that fans have a front-row seat to all the action.
The 2024 Schedule Breakdown
The preseason is divided into three weeks, starting on August 8, 2024, and running through August 25, 2024. Here’s a detailed look at the matchups you won’t want to miss:
Preseason Week 1
Thursday, August 8
- 7 p.m. ET: Carolina Panthers vs. New England Patriots
A clash between classic powerhouses, this opener features the highly anticipated debut of rookie quarterback Drake Maye.
Panthers logo
- 7 p.m. ET: Carolina Panthers vs. New England Patriots
Friday, August 9
- 7 p.m. ET: Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Watch for Russell Wilson as he seeks to establish chemistry with the Steelers’ offense.
- 7 p.m. ET: Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Saturday, August 10
- 1 p.m. ET: Chicago Bears vs. Buffalo Bills
- 4 p.m. ET: Las Vegas Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings
- 7 p.m. ET: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
The defending Super Bowl champions face the young and dynamic Jaguars in what promises to be a fireworks display.
Sunday, August 11
- 1 p.m. ET: Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts
- 4:30 p.m. ET: Dallas Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Rams
Preseason Week 2
Thursday, August 15
- 7 p.m. ET: Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots
Saturday, August 17
- 1 p.m. ET: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Chicago Bears
- 4 p.m. ET: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Detroit Lions
- 7 p.m. ET: Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
- 10 p.m. ET: Dallas Cowboys vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Sunday, August 18
- 8 p.m. ET: Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos
Preseason Week 3
Thursday, August 22
- 8:15 p.m. ET: Chicago Bears vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Friday, August 23
- 7 p.m. ET: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Atlanta Falcons
- 10 p.m. ET: San Francisco 49ers vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Saturday, August 24
- 1 p.m. ET: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Detroit Lions
- 4 p.m. ET: Los Angeles Chargers vs. Dallas Cowboys
- 7:30 p.m. ET: New York Giants vs. New York Jets
- 10 p.m. ET: Cleveland Browns vs. Seattle Seahawks
Sunday, August 25
- 2 p.m. ET: Tennessee Titans vs. New Orleans Saints
Why the Preseason Matters
The preseason offers teams a vital opportunity to assess their younger players and hone their game plans. For rookie quarterbacks like Caleb Williams and J.J. McCarthy, it’s a pivotal chance to shine and secure their starting roles. Fans should keep an eye on how these new talents perform under the pressure of the NFL spotlight.
Moreover, the games give fans a taste of the upcoming season by showcasing revamped rosters and new strategies. With teams like the Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs leading the charge in roster transformations, expect plenty of surprises and challenges that will set the tone for the regular season ahead.
How to Watch
Fans can catch all the action live on the NFL Network, with games available via NFL+. This service provides comprehensive access to all preseason matchups, ensuring that no fan misses out on the thrill of watching their favorite teams battle it out before the regular season kicks off.
Join the Excitement!
As we approach the preseason, the energy among fans is only going to intensify. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a football-filled August. Whether looking to cheer for a beloved team or witness the rise of the NFL’s next superstar, the 2024 preseason is an event you won’t want to miss.
Prepare for game day by scouting matchups, studying rosters, and planning your viewing parties. This season could be one for the history books, and it all begins with the exhilarating kickoff of the NFL Preseason on August 8, 2024. Keep an eye on the action, and get ready to dive into the thrilling world of American football!
