Preseason Guidebook: When Does NFL Preseason Start and What’s at Stake

For both seasoned bettors and rookies to the betting blocks, understanding the dynamics of NFL preseason betting is crucial. It’s not just about who wins or loses; it’s about seeing which rookies are causing a stir, which formations are working, and who’s looking sharp after the off-season. Whether you’re looking to place a wager or simply want to get the lowdown on your favorite team’s form, the preseason offers invaluable insights.

So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of NFL preseason betting! This blog will be your one-stop shop for everything you need to know: from the exact date the preseason kicks off to the key storylines and matchups to watch (and potentially wager on). Let’s turn those “exhibition games” into exhibition wins for your bankroll!

 

When Does The 2024 NFL Preseason Begin?

I know it feels as if we just crowned the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl champions, but come on, people. That’s all in the past, and football is all about focusing on the present and preparing for the future. Thankfully, the preseason—with all its nail-biting roster cuts and unexpected breakout stars—is just around the corner.

The action kicks off with the Hall of Fame Game on August 1st in Canton, Ohio. Then, buckle up because the rest of the league gets in on the preseason action about 10 days later.

All other 30 teams in the league will start their own preseason action in week 1 between August 9-15, followed by week 2 between the 16th and 22, and closing with week 3 between the 23 to September 4. Afterwards, all teams will have a bye week to rest and finish setting up for the start of the season, which is slated to begin on September 5.

 

Who Will Be Playing In The Inaugural Preseason Game This Season?

The 2024 Hall of Fame Game is set for an electrifying showdown between the Chicago Bears and the Houston Texans on Thursday, August 1st, at 8 p.m. ET. The game, held in Canton, Ohio’s Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, is a preseason tradition that kicks off the NFL’s 105th season and the league’s annual Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week celebrations.

This year’s game holds extra significance as legends from both teams will be inducted into the Hall of Fame just two days later: Devin Hester (a personal favorite of mine), Steve McMichael, and Julius Peppers of the Bears, and Andre Johnson of the Texans.

Will this be the first time we get to see Chicago’s rookie quarterback phenom Caleb Williams take the field with the Bears? Or will Houston show they are ready to take the league by storm from the first snap of action this pre-season?

 

What’s at Stake in the NFL Preseason

As the NFL preseason rolls out, it’s easy to dismiss these games as just warm-ups, mere rehearsals before the real drama of the regular season unfolds. However, underestimating the importance of these early matchups would be a rookie mistake—there’s a lot more at play here than first meets the eye.

1. Roster Decisions

First and foremost, the preseason is critical for player evaluation. Coaches use these games to make the tough calls on who makes the 53-man roster and who might be facing the cut. For rookies and players on the fringe, every snap is a chance to prove they have what it takes to make it in the league. This isn’t just practice; it’s a battleground for athletes fighting to secure their dreams.

2. Scheme Adjustments

For the coaching staff, the preseason is a perfect laboratory for experimentation. This is the time to test new plays, adjust formations, and refine strategies without the pressure of regular-season stakes. Observant bettors can gain insights into a team’s direction and potential by noting these adjustments.

3. Injury Comebacks

Players returning from injuries use these games to ease back into full-speed play. Watching how they perform can provide clues about whether they’re likely to regain their pre-injury form. For fantasy football players and bettors alike, understanding these dynamics is crucial.

4. Betting Opportunities

From a betting perspective, the preseason offers unique opportunities. The outcomes can be unpredictable, and the odds can be favorable for those who have done their homework. Knowledgeable bettors can find value in understanding depth charts and knowing which teams and coaches aim to win these exhibition games versus those focusing solely on evaluation and health.

5. Team Chemistry and Morale

Finally, the preseason sets the tone for team chemistry and morale. How new players integrate and how teams rebound from setbacks can be indicative of the season ahead. A team that gels well in preseason may carry that momentum forward, and conversely, visible discord could spell trouble.

While the NFL preseason might not count in the win-loss columns that fans obsess over in the regular season, the implications ripple through the rest of the year. For those looking at NFL preseason betting, these games are a treasure trove of information, a peek behind the curtain at the narratives that will shape the coming football year. Whether you’re wagering money or just scouting your favorite team, the preseason is not to be overlooked.

 

Are NFL Players Paid In The Preseason?

When it comes to the NFL preseason, a common question that surfaces is whether players get paid for participating in these games that don’t count towards the regular season standings. The short answer is yes, NFL players do get paid for preseason games, but the way they’re compensated might surprise you.

Standard Preseason Pay

Unlike regular-season games, where players receive their contracted salary divided over the course of the regular season, the payment structure for preseason games is quite different. During the preseason, players do not earn their regular-season salaries. Instead, they receive a stipend based on their experience and tenure in the league.

The collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the players’ union stipulates this stipend amount, which is significantly less than what players earn per game in the regular season. For rookies and less experienced players, this stipend is even less substantial, reinforcing the financial importance of securing a spot on the team’s regular-season roster.

Implications for Rookies and Veterans

For rookies, especially undrafted ones, the preseason is their critical audition not just for a place on the team but also for a more financially secure position. Veterans, on the other hand, who have guaranteed contracts or larger base salaries, won’t feel the financial impact as acutely but still benefit from showing their readiness and fitness to secure their playing time when the regular season rolls around.

Performance Incentives

Additionally, while the preseason games themselves do not generally carry performance bonuses, strong performances can lead to better contract terms or incentives as part of future negotiations. Players who are on the fringe of the roster can sometimes secure their spot or even a starting role based on their preseason performance, which can indirectly influence their earning potential.

While the direct financial compensation for preseason games is relatively modest, the indirect financial stakes are significant. Every snap in a preseason game can contribute to a player’s career trajectory and future earnings, making these games crucial despite the lack of hefty paychecks.

 

How Many Preseason Games Does Each Team Play?

The structure of the NFL preseason has evolved over the years, particularly with changes implemented to accommodate an expanded regular season schedule. Understanding how many games each team plays before the official season kicks off is crucial for fans and bettors alike, as it influences how teams manage their rosters and approach each game.

Current Preseason Format

As of the 2021 NFL season, the league adjusted its preseason and regular season formats. Previously, each team typically played four preseason games. However, with the expansion of the regular season from 16 to 17 games, the NFL reduced the number of preseason games to three per team. This change was part of a broader strategy to manage player health and safety while also responding to calls for more meaningful football.

The Exception: The Hall of Fame Game

One additional nuance in the preseason schedule is the Hall of Fame Game, which occurs annually and marks the beginning of the preseason. This game is held in Canton, Ohio, celebrating the new class of inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The teams selected to participate in the Hall of Fame Game end up playing four preseason games instead of three. This exception allows for a broader showcase of talent and gives the selected teams extra playtime, which can be particularly beneficial for evaluating potential players and strategies.

 

Impact on Teams and Strategy

The reduction to three preseason games means that teams have to be more strategic in how they deploy their players and manage playtime. Coaches often use the first couple of games to evaluate talent, particularly rookies and players fighting for roster spots. The third game is traditionally when starters see more playtime, serving as a dress rehearsal for the regular season.

This structure emphasizes the importance of each preseason game. Teams have less on-field time to assess players and test game plans, which can lead to more intense and competitive play in these exhibitions. For bettors and fans, this means that watching how teams manage these games provides crucial insights into season-long strategies and player utilization.

While the NFL preseason may be shorter than it once was, each game is packed with critical decisions and evaluations. For teams, every moment counts to ensure they are as prepared as possible for the demands of the regular season. For fans and bettors, understanding these dynamics can enhance the experience and inform their predictions and wagers