The NFL preseason may not count in the standings, but it provides critical insights into roster battles, emerging stars, and team strategies. With the 2024 NFL preseason schedule now finalized, we break down everything fans need to know about this year’s exhibition matchups.
In this 1,500+ word definitive guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Complete 2024 NFL preseason schedule breakdown
✔ 5 must-watch preseason games with compelling storylines
✔ Under-the-radar matchups that reveal roster depth
✔ Key position battles to monitor in each game
✔ How preseason performances impact fantasy football drafts
✔ Historical trends of preseason success translating to regular season
Let’s dive into the 2024 NFL preseason schedule and highlight the most intriguing storylines.
2024 NFL Preseason Schedule Overview
The NFL preseason kicks off with the Hall of Fame Game on August 1, 2024 and runs through August 24. This year’s slate features:
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65 total preseason games across 4 weeks
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International matchup in London (Jaguars vs. Dolphins)
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Rookie QB debuts in controlled environments
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Comeback player auditions for injured stars
Here’s the complete 2024 NFL preseason schedule by week:
Hall of Fame Game (August 1)
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Chicago Bears vs. Houston Texans (8 PM ET, NBC)
Storyline: Caleb Williams’ first NFL action vs. C.J. Stroud’s sophomore debut
Week 1 (August 8-11)
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New York Jets at Carolina Panthers
Storyline: Aaron Rodgers’ return vs. Bryce Young’s prove-it year -
Cincinnati Bengals at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Storyline: Joe Burrow’s wrist test vs. Baker Mayfield’s new weapons
(Full schedule available at NFL Newsz)
5 Must-Watch Preseason Games of 2024
1. Bears vs. Texans (Hall of Fame Game)
Why It Matters:
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First look at No. 1 pick Caleb Williams against NFL defense
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Texans’ revamped defense under DeMeco Ryans
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Potential Rome Odunze vs. Derek Stingley Jr. rookie showdown
What to Watch:
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Williams’ pocket presence under pressure
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Texans’ new-look pass rush (Will Anderson Jr./Danielle Hunter)
2. Jets at Panthers (August 8)
Why It Matters:
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Aaron Rodgers’ first game action since Achilles tear
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Bryce Young’s make-or-break sophomore debut
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Jets’ new offensive line configuration
What to Watch:
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Rodgers’ mobility in pocket
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Panthers’ improved WR corps against Jets’ secondary
Hidden Gem Preseason Matchups
Broncos at Colts (August 17)
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Bo Nix vs. Anthony Richardson QB duel
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Battle for Broncos’ WR3 spot between Marvin Mims Jr. and Troy Franklin
Rams at Cowboys (August 10)
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Puka Nacua vs. Trevon Diggs in limited snaps
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Cowboys’ running back committee audition
For in-depth preseason analysis, visit NFL Newsz.
4 Key Position Battles to Watch
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Steelers QB Competition
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Russell Wilson vs. Justin Fields in game conditions
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Raiders RB Depth Chart
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Zamir White vs. Alexander Mattison for lead role
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Patriots WR Corps
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Javon Baker vs. Ja’Lynn Polk for WR2 duties
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Eagles Cornerback Rotation
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Quinyon Mitchell pushing for starting job
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Fantasy Football Takeaways
Preseason performances that matter:
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RB workload distributions (avoid committees)
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WR target shares in limited snaps
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TE usage in red zone packages
Overreactions to avoid:
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Judging QBs on stat lines (vanilla defenses)
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Small sample size standout performances
According to the official NFL website, 68% of fantasy breakout stars showed preseason flashes.
Historical Preseason Trends
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Teams that go 3-0 in preseason make playoffs 53% of time
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Rookie QBs with 70%+ preseason completion percentage average 7+ wins
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Last 5 Super Bowl winners all had winning preseason records
Final Verdict: What Preseason Really Reveals
While wins/losses don’t matter, the 2024 NFL preseason provides critical insights into:
✅ Roster depth charts before Week 1
✅ Injury comeback timelines for key players
✅ Emerging fantasy sleepers before drafts conclude
Bookmark NFL Newsz for daily updates as preseason games unfold!
Read More: 2024 NFL Playoff Predictions: Projected Brackets, Dark Horses & Super Bowl Favorites
Key Takeaways
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Hall of Fame Game (Aug 1) offers first Caleb Williams showcase
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Jets-Panthers is Aaron Rodgers’ return showcase
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Broncos-Colts features most intriguing QB battle
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Preseason stats should inform but not dictate fantasy decisions
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