Did Football Season Start in 2025? Key Dates & Updates

By Sarah Miller · March 8, 2036

The 2025 NFL regular season has not yet started as of October 2025. The season officially began on September 5, 2024, with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Baltimore Ravens. The 2025 preseason is currently underway, with the regular season set to kick off in early September 2025.

When Did the 2025 Football Season Start?

The 2025 NFL football season is currently in its preseason phase. While no regular-season games have been played yet, training camps opened in late July, and preseason matchups began in early August 2025. The official start of the regular season is scheduled for Thursday, September 4, 2025, when the defending Super Bowl champion will host a marquee matchup.

Key Dates for the 2025 NFL Season

Training Camps: Late July 2025
Preseason Games: August 1–24, 2025
Regular Season Kickoff: September 4, 2025
Week 1 Regular Games: September 4–8, 2025
Super Bowl LIX: February 8, 2026, at Caesars Superdome, New Orleans

NFL Season Structure Explained

The NFL season follows a structured timeline that includes offseason activities, preseason, regular season, and playoffs. Understanding this breakdown helps fans track team progress and player readiness.

Phases of the NFL Calendar

Offseason (January–June): Includes free agency, the NFL Draft, and organized team activities (OTAs).
Training Camp (Late July): Teams gather for intensive practices and evaluations.
Preseason (August): Four exhibition games used to assess roster depth and rookie performance.
Regular Season (September–January): 18-week schedule with each team playing 17 games.
Postseason (January–February): 14 teams compete in a single-elimination tournament culminating in the Super Bowl.

Did All Football Leagues Start Their Seasons?

No, not all football leagues have started their 2025 seasons. While the NFL is preparing for its upcoming campaign, other leagues operate on different schedules.

Comparison of Major Football Leagues' 2025 Schedules

League	Season Start Date	Season End Date	Games per Team	Championship Game
NFL	September 4, 2025	January 4, 2026	17	Super Bowl LIX – Feb 8, 2026
NCAA FBS	August 30, 2025	January 20, 2026	12–14	National Championship – Jan 20, 2026
USFL	March 29, 2025	June 15, 2025	10	June 15, 2025
XFL	March 22, 2025	June 7, 2025	10	June 7, 2025
European Leagues (e.g., Germany)	July 25, 2025	May 2026	18	May 2026

Table data source:1, 2, 3, 4, 5

The data shows significant variation in start dates across leagues. Spring leagues like the USFL and XFL concluded their 2025 seasons by June, while college football began late August. The NFL remains the most-watched league, with its season strategically placed to maximize viewership during fall and winter months.

Team Readiness and Preseason Performance

As of October 2025, all 32 NFL teams are evaluating players through training camp reports and preseason game stats. Coaches use these opportunities to finalize rosters and test new offensive and defensive schemes.

What Teams Are Showing Strong Early Signs?

The Detroit Lions are implementing a new pass-heavy offense under their recently hired coordinator.
The San Francisco 49ers have seen promising performances from their 2025 draft class, especially at linebacker.
The Buffalo Bills continue to dominate preseason time of possession, indicating strong offensive line cohesion.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Football Season

Has the 2025 NFL season started yet?

No, the 2025 NFL regular season has not started yet. As of October 2025, teams are in the final weeks of preseason training. The regular season is scheduled to begin on September 4, 2025.

When does the NFL regular season start in 2025?

The 2025 NFL regular season is set to begin on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with a primetime kickoff game featuring the reigning Super Bowl champion hosting a top contender.

How many games are in the 2025 NFL season?

Each NFL team will play 17 regular-season games over an 18-week schedule in 2025. This format has been in place since 2021. Teams also have one bye week during the season.

Which stadium will host Super Bowl LIX?

Super Bowl LIX will be held on February 8, 2026, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. This marks the 8th time the city hosts the championship game.

Are college football seasons already underway in 2025?

Yes, NCAA FBS college football began on August 30, 2025. Several ranked teams have already played two to three games by early September, with conference play ramping up in October.