The NFL season is filled with key dates that every fan should know, spanning from preseason excitement to the dramatic postseason battles. With the 2024-25 season well underway, we’ve already seen some major events, but there’s plenty still to come. Whether you’re following your favorite team or keeping an eye on the league as a whole, these upcoming dates will shape the trajectory of the season and lead us to Super Bowl LIX in February.
Regular Season Kickoff and International Games
As of October 2024, the regular season has already begun. Week 1 kicked off with thrilling matchups, and we’re now entering the heart of the season. One of the major highlights will be the NFL International Games. Fans across the globe will get to enjoy these in October:
- October 6: New York Jets vs. Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
- October 13: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Chicago Bears, also in London
- October 20: New England Patriots vs. Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium, London
These international matchups are a fantastic opportunity for fans abroad to experience the NFL up close, bringing the excitement of American football to a global stage.
Trade Deadline and Mid-Season Play
One of the most anticipated moments in the season for NFL teams and fans alike is the November 5 trade deadline. This is the last chance for teams to make trades that could shape their playoff chances. Rosters can undergo dramatic changes as teams on the playoff bubble make a push to strengthen their squads, while others prepare for the future by offloading contracts.
Following the trade deadline, fans should pay close attention to the NFL International Game in Munich on November 10, featuring the New York Giants against the Carolina Panthers at Allianz Arena. International games continue to be an exciting aspect of the NFL’s calendar, expanding the reach of the sport worldwide.
Playoff Push and Key Postseason Dates
As the regular season winds down in December, playoff hopefuls will battle for divisional titles and wild card spots. Fans and analysts alike will start watching more closely, as betting odds often shift dramatically during this time. The postseason kicks off with Super Wild Card Weekend from January 11-13, marking the start of the NFL playoffs. Sportsbooks, such as FanDuel, will provide updated odds for each matchup, giving fans a clearer picture of potential outcomes. Keep an eye on the NFL odds by FanDuel leading into these games, as they often reflect key team developments and injuries.
Next comes the Divisional Playoff Games on January 18-19, followed by the AFC and NFC Championship Games on January 26, where the stakes are even higher, and betting lines can fluctuate heavily.
Super Bowl and Offseason Events
All roads lead to Super Bowl LIX, which takes place on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. This event is not only the pinnacle of the NFL season but also one of the biggest sporting events in the world. The two best teams will face off for the coveted Lombardi Trophy, and millions of fans will tune in worldwide.
Once the Super Bowl concludes, the NFL offseason begins, but there’s still plenty to follow. The NFL Scouting Combine will take place from February 24 to March 3 in Indianapolis, providing a first look at the top college prospects. Soon after, free agency starts on March 12, with teams able to sign new players and make trades to gear up for the 2025 season.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 NFL season is packed with important dates, from regular season clashes to the excitement of the postseason. As we move forward, the international games, trade deadline, playoffs, and Super Bowl will captivate fans worldwide. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, these key moments will shape the league’s landscape and keep us all on the edge of our seats.