The 106th NFL season is nearly here, and fans are already gearing up for what looks like an action-packed year. Between big-name rookies, returning stars, and a few high-profile team changes, there’s no shortage of anticipation. As always, the buildup to kickoff includes plenty of predictions, speculation, fantasy chatter, and calendar-watching as everyone counts down to Week 1.

This year brings a fresh mix of talent and competition across the league. Teams have retooled their rosters, coaching staffs have shuffled, and several players from the 2025 draft class are expected to step into starting roles right away. Offseason trades and free agent moves have also reshaped team dynamics. The road to Week 1 always brings new energy and endless possibilities.

Here are five things every fan should know as the 2025–2026 NFL season gets underway.

1. Release Date

The 2025–2026 NFL regular season kicks off on Thursday, September 4. As tradition goes, the defending Super Bowl champions will host the opening game. That night sets the tone, with an early matchup designed to draw attention and start the year strong. Preseason games begin in early August, giving fans their first look at depth charts and roster battles.

The regular season will run through early January, followed by the playoffs and Super Bowl LX in February. Key dates like the trade deadline, bye weeks, and holiday games are also marked early. Fans usually start circling weeks of interest the moment the dates are confirmed. Many also map out potential playoff scenarios or fantasy football playoff schedules based on these key weeks.

2. Schedule

The full 2025 NFL schedule will be released in May, shortly after the draft. That includes all 18 weeks of regular season play, plus primetime games, holiday slots, and international matchups. Each team plays 17 games, with one bye week, across a rotating divisional format that balances strength of schedule, fan interest, and TV market reach.

NFL fans can find team-by-team schedules on the league’s official website, through mobile apps, or via broadcast partners like ESPN, NBC, and CBS. Many fans also check platforms once schedules drop, using early odds to gauge potential momentum swings and preview high- impact matchups. Some even start planning travel or fantasy drafts based on rivalry weeks and late-season playoff implications.

3. Where to Bet

With sports betting now legal in more states than ever, fans have more ways to stay involved with every snap, drive, and game-changing play. FanDuel sportsbook remains one of the most widely used platforms, offering everything from standard pregame lines and live in-game odds to multi-leg parlays, same-game props, and weekly promotional boosts that add value throughout the season.

Before placing bets, many fans dive into injury reports, recent trends, player matchups, and even weather forecasts to help shape their picks. Prop bets tied to individual stats continue to grow in popularity, especially among fantasy football players looking for another layer of strategy. Lastly, always check local regulations and stick to verified, licensed platforms to ensure a secure experience.

4. Must-See Matchups

Some games are circled on calendars the moment the schedule drops. Division rivalries like Packers vs. Bears or Chiefs vs. Chargers always bring intensity, history, and playoff energy, no matter the month. These matchups often feature unpredictable outcomes, emotional swings, and passionate fan bases that drive up national viewership.

High-profile quarterback duels and playoff rematches also headline the early slate of nationally televised games, drawing. Look for big Sunday Night Football and Monday Night Football matchups in the first few weeks, along with Thursday Night Football showdowns that bring short-week challenges, shake up divisional standings, and test roster depth early in the season.

5. New Season Storylines

Every season brings breakout stars and shifting narratives that reshape expectations. Rookies like Ashton Jeanty, Travis Hunter, Mason Graham, Tyler Booker, and Will Campbell are already

positioned to play meaningful snaps and contribute in high-leverage situations. At the same time, teams with new head coaches or recently acquired quarterbacks will face immediate pressure to show signs of progress.

As these stories unfold, fans can follow trends and momentum shifts through Upcoming NFL Games and Props, which often reflect rising player performance and evolving team identity. A hot start from a rookie or a breakout offense can move lines and create buzz across weekly slates. The first month of the season tends to reveal which offseason decisions were difference- makers.

Here’s What to Watch This Season

There’s a lot coming your way this year: big plays, surprise teams, and plenty to talk about every Sunday. Knowing the schedule, following the rookies, and checking the weekly matchups is the best way to keep up. So set your alerts, lock in your picks, and enjoy the ride. The season’s here, and it’s going to be a fun one!