If you love football but hate the slow build‑up of the regular season, the NFL preseason is your chance to catch raw talent, big hits, and a lot of drama. In just a few weeks, 32 teams will hit the field for four (or three, for the teams with a bye) games each. That means a packed schedule, newbies fighting for roster spots, and plenty of free tickets for fans who want to see the action up close.
The preseason usually kicks off in early August, right after training camp wraps up. Each team plays a mix of home and away games, often against regional rivals to reduce travel costs. For example, the New England Patriots might open against the Buffalo Bills in New England, while the Dallas Cowboys could travel to the Houston Texans for a Texas‑vs‑Texan showdown.
Games are broadcast on major networks like ESPN, FOX, and the NFL Network, plus the league’s own streaming platform. If you’re on a budget, check local listings – many preseason games are free over the air, and some stadiums even give away tickets a day before kickoff.
First, know the stakes. Coaches use preseason to evaluate rookies, undrafted free agents, and players on the bubble. That means you’ll see more passing attempts, trick plays, and aggressive defenses as coaches try to spot hidden gems. Keep an eye on the depth chart – a name you’ve never heard might become a starter by Week 1.
Second, bring a notebook or a notes app. Jot down who makes big plays, who looks shaky, and which veterans are still sharp. These observations are fun for fantasy football drafts and for bragging rights with friends.
Third, enjoy the atmosphere. Preseason stadiums are less crowded, so you can walk to the concessions, catch the warm‑up routines, and even get a glimpse of the locker room hallway. Some teams host fan events before the game, like meet‑and‑greets with alumni or autograph sessions with current players.
Finally, don’t forget safety. Preseason games can be high‑impact, and injuries happen. If you’re cheering from home, keep the volume reasonable and stay hydrated – you’ll want to stay alert for those last‑minute touchdowns that can swing a game’s momentum.
In short, the NFL preseason is a short, exciting window to see future stars rise, veteran talent stay sharp, and teams fine‑tune their playbooks. Mark your calendar, snag a ticket or stream, and get ready for some football that’s raw, unpredictable, and pure fun.
The Buccaneers waived rookie safety Shilo Sanders less than 24 hours after he was ejected for throwing a punch in the preseason finale vs. the Bills. The undrafted free agent had impressed in camp and was in the mix for a roster spot. Tampa Bay hasn’t shut the door on a return if he clears waivers, potentially to the practice squad. Sanders starred at Colorado after transferring from South Carolina.
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