The NFL’s 2025 schedule release has ignited excitement for the upcoming season, unveiling a slate of compelling matchups, international showdowns, and critical games that will shape the journey to Super Bowl LX. Below, we dive into the details of the 2025 NFL schedule release, including the updated international games, primetime highlights, and what fans can expect as the season unfolds.

 

When Is the NFL Schedule Release in 2025? Date, Time, and How to Watch

The 2025 NFL schedule will be revealed on Wednesday, May 14, at 8:00 p.m. ET, broadcast across NFL Network, NFL.com, the NFL app, and NFL+. ESPN2 will host a two-hour primetime special with Laura Rutledge, Dan Orlovsky, Louis Riddick, Adam Schefter, and Peter Schrager, joined by guests like Troy Aikman for reactions. Early game announcements begin Monday, May 12, on NBC’s TODAY Show, FOX, and Prime Video, with international matchups confirmed on Tuesday, May 13, during NFL Network’s Good Morning Football. NFL+ offers exclusive content, including Secrets of the Schedule, detailing the complex process behind the 272-game schedule.

 

Top Prime-Time Games and Must-See Matchups on the 2025 NFL Schedule

The season kicks off with a marquee NFC East clash as the defending Super Bowl LIX champion Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, September 4, at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. Prime-time games feature a Super Bowl LIX rematch between the Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, pitting Jalen Hurts against Patrick Mahomes in a potential Super Bowl LX preview. The Detroit Lions face the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, revisiting their 2023 Kickoff Game, while the Buffalo Bills take on the Chiefs, with Josh Allen aiming to continue his regular-season edge over Mahomes.

Other standout matchups include the Washington Commanders versus the Detroit Lions, a playoff rematch after Washington’s upset last season, and the Cincinnati Bengals versus the Bills, showcasing Joe Burrow and Allen’s offensive firepower. Holiday games include a Christmas Day AFC West battle between the Chiefs and Denver Broncos at 8:15 p.m. ET on Prime Video, and a Black Friday clash with the Eagles hosting the Chicago Bears.

 

Team-by-Team 2025 NFL Schedule: Full List for All 32 Teams

Each of the NFL’s 32 teams will play 17 games over 18 weeks, with one bye week. Full schedules, available on NFL.com and the NFL app post-release, are based on the NFL’s formula: six divisional games, four against a division in their conference, four against a division in the other conference, two against same-conference teams based on prior standings, and one interconference game. The Eagles face a tough slate with the Chiefs, Lions, and Bills, while the Cowboys tackle Philadelphia, Washington, and Green Bay. The San Francisco 49ers have the easiest strength of schedule, per projected win totals, while the New York Giants face the toughest.

 

What to Expect: New Rules, Bye Weeks, and International Games

The 2025 season introduces updated rules, including a 21-day flex scheduling deadline for Thursday Night Football in Weeks 13-17 and four alternate/throwback uniform uses per team. The AFC East and NFC West debut “Rivalries” uniforms for divisional games. Bye weeks, scheduled between Weeks 5 and 14, account for travel and equity, especially for international games.

The 2025 International Series features seven games across five cities, updated with confirmed matchups:

The Vikings make history playing back-to-back international games in Dublin and London, staying in Europe between contests. Holiday games include a Thanksgiving tripleheader, two Christmas Day games on Netflix, and Black Friday and Christmas Thursday night games on Prime Video.

 

How the 2025 NFL Schedule Impacts Playoff Odds and Power Rankings

The schedule significantly influences playoff prospects. The Eagles, with the 30th-easiest schedule, are primed to defend their title, while the Giants face a daunting path. Strength of schedule, based on Vegas win totals, favors the 49ers, but the Ravens’ late-season stretch, including three games in 10 days, could challenge their stamina. Super Bowl LX odds rank the Chiefs (+475), Eagles (+650), and Bills (+800) as favorites, with the Lions (+900) close behind. The Texans (+2500) face hurdles with a mid-tier schedule and offensive concerns. Post-release, power rankings will adjust based on primetime slots, rest advantages, and travel demands.

The 2025 NFL schedule is a tapestry of rivalries, global expansion, and high-stakes battles, setting the stage for an electrifying season culminating at Levi’s Stadium for Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026.

For complete team schedules and updated odds, visit NFL.com or trusted sportsbooks after May 14.