The annual NFL schedule release has become one of the most hyped “events” in the sports world. While it’s undoubtedly a spectacle, with anticipation building over several days, it remains highly informative, occasionally provocative, and, at times, controversial. Yet, the fact that it now takes up nearly three days to unveil the entire schedule shows just how far the NFL’s marketing and business strategies have evolved.
Mike North, the league’s VP of broadcasting, and his team have turned the release into a massive operation, showcasing their unmatched ability to execute year after year. And while the event might be exaggerated, it does set the stage for the upcoming season, giving us clear winners and losers from the very start.
Winners and Losers of the 2025 NFL Schedule Release:
- Buffalo Bills
The Bills have one of the easiest schedules among playoff teams in 2024, with their opponents having a collective winning percentage of just .467. Adding to that, they’ll play three prime-time games in their final season at Highmark Stadium. - Colts’ ‘Indiana Nights’ Uniforms
Indianapolis’ alternate uniform, featuring a black helmet and a “heathered” design, has been a fan favorite, though the Colts’ lack of relevance has kept them out of prime-time slots for the most part. However, they’ll host the San Francisco 49ers on “Monday Night Football” in Week 16. So, get ready to enjoy an Indiana night! - Streaming Services
This year marks the continued expansion of streaming platforms like Prime Video, YouTube, ESPN+, and Netflix, as they work their way into what was once the exclusive territory of traditional network broadcasts. The NFL continues to broaden its reach in the digital space. - Aaron Rodgers’ 2024 Schedule
With the New York Jets and Aaron Rodgers slated to face a lighter 2024 schedule, the big question is whether they’ll seize the opportunity to thrive. The Jets won’t have too many marquee games, but Rodgers will have his moment in Week 1 against the Steelers, his former team. Not to mention, Rodgers will relish the Week 8 “Sunday Night Football” showdown with the Green Bay Packers in Pittsburgh. - Cincinnati Bengals’ Travel Schedule
The Bengals, centrally located in Ohio, will have the least amount of travel miles in 2025, under 10,000. Let’s hope they use these savings to reward defensive end Trey Hendrickson with a well-deserved new contract. - NFL Social Media Teams
For the NFL’s social media teams, the schedule release is essentially their Super Bowl. They get creative, throw some shade, and keep fans engaged. The Los Angeles Chargers have once again led the way, while the Colts have fallen short—yet another instance of the franchise missing out. - Kansas City Chiefs’ Prime-Time Dominance
The Chiefs will have the most prime-time appearances this season, with seven slots, plus an additional Thanksgiving game and another on Christmas. Fans of the team will certainly enjoy their visibility, but for some, it might be a case of Chiefs fatigue. - New Orleans Saints and Tennessee Titans
Unfortunately for the Saints and Titans, their 2025 schedules lack the glamour of prime-time games. Both teams will miss out on exclusive broadcast slots, signaling the uphill battle they face in building up their respective teams’ national appeal. - College Football Playoff
The expanded College Football Playoff, now in its second year, faces stiff competition from the NFL. Despite trying to carve out a spot on Saturdays, it seems that the NFL’s grip on the late-season spotlight remains strong. In Week 16, the NFL has two divisional rivalries—Bears-Packers and Commanders-Eagles—that will draw more eyes than any college game. - The NBA’s Christmas Showcase
The NFL has officially taken over the Christmas Day spotlight, with a tripleheader featuring Patrick Mahomes and the Dallas Cowboys. The NBA, led by LeBron James, now struggles to keep up with the NFL’s dominance on the holiday. - Germany’s NFL Exposure
While the NFL has embraced Germany as a loyal ally, some fans question why NFL stars like Daniel Jones are being sent there as ambassadors. Perhaps it’s time for a different approach, especially considering the global appeal of the league.
This year’s NFL schedule release isn’t just a game preview—it’s a carefully orchestrated marketing moment that sets the tone for the offseason, offering fans a glimpse of what’s to come, even before the first whistle blows. With wins, losses, and unexpected plot twists, the league continues to dominate headlines.