Are you eagerly asking "when does the NFL schedule come out" each offseason? You’re not alone. Football fans across the country look forward to this annual reveal, which kicks off the countdown to the regular season. Below, we break down key dates, what to expect from this year’s release, and where you can find the most up-to-date information.

When Does the NFL Schedule Come Out?

The question on every NFL fan’s mind—when does the NFL schedule come out—has a clear answer for the 2025 season. The complete NFL schedule will be unveiled on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT). This much-anticipated announcement covers all 32 teams and their game dates for the upcoming season.

However, some matchups get teased before the full schedule drops. Early reveals include key games like international matchups or opening night showdowns. For example, the 2025 NFL schedule release guide by the Raiders highlights how select games will be announced between May 12 and May 14 on major broadcast networks such as NBC, FOX, Prime Video, ESPN, CBS, and Netflix.

How and Where to Watch the NFL Schedule Release

Want to watch the big reveal live? The NFL makes it easy. According to AZCentral's live schedule updates, networks like NFL Network and ESPN2 will air special coverage starting at the scheduled release time. You can also stream the broadcast on NFL+ or through participating TV providers carrying NFL Network or ESPN2. Additionally, each team's official website and app will publish their specific matchups at the moment of release.

What’s Included in the NFL Schedule Announcement?

When the NFL schedule comes out, fans get the full slate for all 32 teams, including:

• Dates and times for every regular-season game
• Opponents for each week
• Primetime, holiday, and international games
• Bye weeks and notable rivalries

For instance, some highlights have already been confirmed:

• Opening Night (Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025): Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys.
• Thanksgiving Games: Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys continue traditional hosting duties.
• Black Friday Matchup: Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles.
• Christmas Day Games: Three games, with the Denver Broncos visiting the Kansas City Chiefs for the final matchup.
• International Games: Featured in cities like London, Berlin, Madrid, Dublin, and São Paulo.

For a deeper dive into specific team schedules and game leaks, check out this comprehensive live tracker of NFL schedule updates and rumors.

Why Does the NFL Schedule Release Matter?

Aside from fueling offseason debate, the schedule release gives teams and fans a roadmap for travel, ticket buys, and tailgates. TV networks compete for marquee games, and betting odds quickly shift in response to the matchups. Teams also analyze their strength of schedule, which can impact playoff hopes. According to The Athletic's in-depth look at schedule scenarios, even the order and location of certain matchups can have a real impact on a team’s postseason chances.

Key Takeaways: When Does the NFL Schedule Come Out?

• Date to Remember: May 14, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT)
• Where to Watch: NFL Network, ESPN2, NFL+, team sites, and major network morning shows
• What to Expect: Full regular season details, highlighted marquee games, and plenty of surprises

Football fans: Mark your calendars and be ready to check your team’s 2025 schedule the moment it drops. For breaking schedule news and updates as they happen, keep an eye on trusted sources like Raiders.com and AZCentral’s NFL coverage. Excitement for the new NFL season starts with schedule release day—don’t miss it!