NFL 2025 Season Preview: Eagles Kick Off, AFC West Dominates, and Shedeur Sanders Shines in Quarterback Showdown

### 2025 NFL Season Preview and Updates

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, here are the key points that football fans need to know:

#### Division Strength
Heading into the 2025 season, the AFC West and NFC North are projected as the strongest divisions. Both divisions feature multiple playoff-caliber teams with minimal weak links, setting the stage for intense competition[1].

#### Schedule Release
The full 2025 NFL schedule was released on Wednesday, May 14th at 8 p.m. ET, with the schedule release show broadcast on ESPN2, NFL Network, and streaming on NFL+. Prior to the full release, various broadcast partners, including FOX, CBS, and Netflix, revealed some of the featured games[2].

#### Season Opener
The 2025 NFL season will kick off on Thursday, September 4th, with the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles hosting their NFC East rival, the Dallas Cowboys. This game will be broadcast on NBC at 8:20 p.m. ET[2].

#### Player Developments
Shedeur Sanders, a notable quarterback prospect, has been in the spotlight. Sanders has expressed confidence in the Browns' quarterback competition, stating that "inside the room, we know we're one"[3].

#### Fan Sentiment and Engagement
There has been some discussion about the NFL's declining viewership and fan engagement. Some fans feel that the increasing number of rules and fines for player contact have diminished the raw excitement of the game. This has led some to turn towards college football, which is seen as more authentic and driven by glory rather than financial gain[5].

#### Key Dates
- **Season Opener:** Thursday, September 4th
- **Schedule Release:** Wednesday, May 14th
- **Broadcast:** ESPN2, NFL Network, and streaming on NFL+[2].

These updates provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect in the upcoming 2025 NFL season, from division strengths and key matchups to player developments and fan sentiments.