When does the NFL Preseason end? Key dates and upcoming game details

The return of the NFL is just around the corner.

While the regular season kicks off on September 5 with an exciting match between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs, the preseason is already in full swing, providing a glimpse of what's to come.

NFL Preseason overview: What you need to know

The NFL preseason is a three-week stretch filled with exhibition games where teams across the league showcase their talent and strategies.

These games, though not impacting the official season records, offer fans the rare chance to see matchups between teams from different conferences.

It's also an opportunity to evaluate new talent, including draft picks and free agents, as well as to see how veterans are shaping up.

The preseason traditionally begins with the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

This year, the rest of the preseason games start on August 8 and continue over three weekends, culminating just before the regular season launch.

The schedule is somewhat flexible, allowing teams to play against opponents they don't typically face during the regular season.

This setup not only reduces travel but also stirs up regional rivalries, adding extra excitement for fans.

Here's a look at some nationally televised preseason games to mark on your calendar:

Week 1:

• Panthers vs. Patriots, Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Texans vs. Steelers, Aug. 9 at 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Bears vs. Bills, Aug. 10 at 1 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Raiders vs. Vikings, Aug. 10 at 4 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Chiefs vs. Jaguars, Aug. 10 at 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Broncos vs. Colts, Aug. 11 at 1 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Cowboys vs. Rams, Aug. 11 at 4:30 p.m. ET (NFL Network)

Week 2:

• Eagles vs. Patriots, Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Bengals vs. Bears, Aug. 17 at 1 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Lions vs. Chiefs, Aug. 17 at 4 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Bills vs. Steelers, Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Cowboys vs. Raiders, Aug. 17 at 10 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Packers vs. Broncos, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Saints vs. 49ers, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. ET (FOX)

Week 3:

• Colts vs. Bengals, Aug. 22 at 8 p.m. ET (Prime Video)
• Bears vs. Chiefs, Aug. 22 at 8:20 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Jaguars vs. Falcons, Aug. 23 at 7 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• 49ers vs. Raiders, Aug. 23 at 10 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Steelers vs. Lions, Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Chargers vs. Cowboys, Aug. 24 at 4 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Giants vs. Jets, Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Browns vs. Seahawks, Aug. 24 at 10 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Titans vs. Saints, Aug. 25 at 2 p.m. ET (NFL Network)
• Cardinals vs. Broncos, Aug. 25 at 4:30 p.m. ET (CBS)
• Patriots vs. Commanders, Aug. 25 at 8 p.m. ET (NBC and Peacock)

The preseason serves as a critical testing ground for all teams.

These games are vital for making final roster decisions, as each team must whittle down from 90 players to 53 by the end of August.

For players, the preseason can make or break their careers.

It's a high-stakes environment where positions are earned, and dreams are either realized or dashed.