The NFL has officially announced the key dates and fixtures for the 2025 season, setting the stage for an exhilarating season filled with significant events and international growth.
As the National Football League embarks on its 106th season, fans worldwide can look forward to an exciting journey that will culminate in Super Bowl 60 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Commencement of the Season and International Growth
The 2025 NFL season is set to begin on Thursday, September 4, with the Philadelphia Eagles, the current champions of Super Bowl LIX, hosting the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL Kickoff Game.
This event not only signifies the start of the season but also establishes the atmosphere for a year characterized by high-stakes competitions and fierce rivalries. In a notable effort to internationalize the sport, the NFL plans to conduct a record seven international games throughout the regular season.
Significantly, Dublin’s Croke Park will host its inaugural NFL game, featuring the Minnesota Vikings against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 28. This initiative highlights the league’s dedication to expanding the reach of American football to a wider audience.
Thanksgiving and Christmas Day Competitions
Thanksgiving Day remains a staple of NFL tradition, with three games scheduled for November 27. The Detroit Lions will host the Green Bay Packers, the Dallas Cowboys will welcome the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Baltimore Ravens will face the Cincinnati Bengals in a primetime clash.
Christmas Day, falling on Thursday, December 25, will feature two games streamed on Netflix: the Washington Commanders hosting the Dallas Cowboys and the Minnesota Vikings welcoming the Detroit Lions.
Additionally, Amazon Prime will broadcast a third Christmas game, with the Kansas City Chiefs taking on the Denver Broncos at home.
The journey to Super Bowl 60 commences with the playoffs on January 10, 2026. The postseason will progress over multiple weeks, culminating in the AFC and NFC Championship Games on January 25.
The season will reach its peak with Super Bowl 60, set for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, marking the second occasion this venue has hosted the prestigious event, having previously done so for Super Bowl 50.
Global Football Competitions: An International Experience
The NFL’s international series is expanding, with matches planned in Brazil, Ireland, Spain, and Germany. The season opener in São Paulo, Brazil, will see the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Los Angeles Chargers.
Additionally, a significant international game will occur in Madrid, Spain, on November 16, where the Miami Dolphins will compete against the Washington Commanders, marking the inaugural NFL regular-season game in Spain.
Initiation of the Playoffs: January 10, 2026; Super Bowl 60 scheduled for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Expert Editorial Comment
The NFL 2025 Season: An Unprecedented Global Football Experience. The key dates and fixtures for the NFL 2025 season promise to engage fans from around the world.
Featuring a mix of classic rivalries, celebratory games, and a focus on international growth, the 2025 NFL season is destined to be historic.