The NFL offseason may feel long, but the wait is almost over. With the 2024-25 NFL season on the horizon, it’s time to mark your calendars for the key dates you won’t want to miss. From the Hall of Fame Game to Super Bowl LIX, this comprehensive guide will keep you informed and ready for all the action.
August: Kicking Off Football Season
The excitement begins in August with the Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Houston Texans and the Chicago Bears, hosted at the iconic Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.
The Houston Texans and Chicago Bears facing off on the field
This game traditionally kicks off the preseason, followed by the Hall of Fame Weekend, drawing fans from across the nation to celebrate the legends of the game.
August also marks important deadlines for player contracts, roster reductions, and the establishment of practice squads.
September: The Regular Season Begins
The regular season kicks off in September with a bang, including an international game in São Paulo, Brazil, where the Green Bay Packers will face off against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Fans can expect thrilling matchups every week as teams battle for playoff contention.
October: International Games and Mid-Season Action
October keeps the momentum going with three NFL International Games in London, featuring matchups between:
- The New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings
- The Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears
- The New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars
The month also sees the Fall League Meeting in Atlanta, where league officials discuss and implement rules and policy changes.
November: Trade Deadline and Playoff Picture
November brings the trade deadline, a pivotal point where teams make final roster adjustments to bolster their playoff hopes. Another international matchup takes center stage in Munich, Germany, as the New York Giants take on the Carolina Panthers.
November also marks several important deadlines for player signings and contract negotiations, setting the stage for the final stretch of the regular season.
December: Playoffs Approach
As December arrives, the playoff picture becomes clearer, and the race for division titles intensifies. A Special League Meeting in Irving, Texas provides an opportunity for further discussions and decisions impacting the league.
January: Postseason and Super Bowl LIX
January kicks off with the playoffs, starting with Super Wild Card Weekend, followed by the Divisional Playoff Games.
The excitement culminates with the AFC and NFC Championship Games, determining which two teams will face off in Super Bowl LIX.
College football also takes center stage with the NCAA National Championship Game in Atlanta, Georgia.
February: Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans
The Big Easy will host Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome, marking the culmination of the 2024-25 NFL season.
Before the big game, fans can enjoy the Pro Bowl Games, celebrating the league’s top players. This month also features critical events for upcoming talent, including the Senior Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine.
March: Free Agency and the New League Year
The 2025 League Year commences in March, ushering in a wave of free agency signings, trades, and contract negotiations as teams reshape their rosters.
The NFL Draft also takes place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where teams will select the next generation of NFL stars.
April and May: Draft and Offseason Programs
April and May mark the beginning of offseason workout programs for teams with new head coaches.
Rookie Football Development Programs also begin, providing valuable training and development opportunities for incoming players.
Stay Informed and Get Ready for the 2024-25 NFL Season
This comprehensive guide to the 2024-25 NFL season’s key dates ensures you won’t miss a single snap. Mark your calendars, get your jerseys ready, and prepare for another exciting season of NFL football.