40 Facts About NFL Preseason

What is NFL Preseason?

The NFL preseason is a series of exhibition games played before the regular season. These games allow teams to evaluate players, test strategies, and build team chemistry. Here are some fascinating facts about the NFL preseason.

1. The NFL preseason typically consists of four games for each team, but this number can vary.
2. Preseason games do not count towards a team's regular-season record.
3. Teams often use preseason games to determine their final roster, cutting down from 90 players to 53.
4. Preseason games are usually less intense than regular-season games, with starters playing limited minutes.
5. The first NFL preseason game is known as the Hall of Fame Game, held in Canton, Ohio.

History of NFL Preseason

The NFL preseason has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the league. Here are some historical facts about the NFL preseason.

6. The first NFL preseason game was played in 1920.
7. The Hall of Fame Game has been played annually since 1962.
8. In the early years, preseason games were often played in smaller cities and towns.
9. The NFL preseason schedule was reduced from six games to four in 1978.
10. The 2020 NFL preseason was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Importance of NFL Preseason

While some may view the preseason as meaningless, it plays a crucial role in the NFL. Here are some reasons why the preseason is important.

11. Preseason games allow coaches to evaluate new players and rookies.
12. Teams can test new strategies and plays during the preseason.
13. Preseason games help players get back into game shape after the offseason.
14. Injured players can use the preseason to ease back into action.
15. Preseason games provide valuable experience for young players.

Notable NFL Preseason Moments

The NFL preseason has had its share of memorable moments. Here are some notable events from past preseasons.

16. In 1999, the Cleveland Browns played their first game since rejoining the NFL in a preseason matchup.
17. The 2008 Hall of Fame Game featured the first-ever game played on a Thursday night.
18. In 2016, the Hall of Fame Game was canceled due to poor field conditions.
19. The 2017 preseason saw the debut of the NFL's new concussion protocol.
20. In 2019, the Oakland Raiders played a preseason game on an 80-yard field in Canada due to field issues.

Preseason Records and Statistics

While preseason games don't count towards regular-season records, they still produce some interesting statistics. Here are some preseason records and stats.

21. The Baltimore Ravens hold the record for the longest preseason winning streak, with 20 consecutive wins.
22. The highest-scoring preseason game was a 62-31 victory by the Philadelphia Eagles over the New York Jets in 1990.
23. The most points scored by a single team in a preseason game is 62, achieved by the Eagles in the same game.
24. The longest preseason game lasted 4 hours and 45 minutes, a 2003 matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Green Bay Packers.
25. The most preseason games played by a single player is 64, held by kicker Morten Andersen.

Preseason Controversies

The NFL preseason has not been without its controversies. Here are some of the most notable controversies from past preseasons.

26. In 2011, the NFL lockout threatened to cancel the entire preseason.
27. The 2016 Hall of Fame Game was canceled due to poor field conditions, leading to criticism of the NFL's preparation.
28. In 2017, the NFL faced backlash for scheduling a preseason game in Mexico City, where the field conditions were deemed unsafe.
29. The 2019 preseason saw several high-profile players suffer season-ending injuries, leading to calls for a shorter preseason.
30. The 2020 preseason was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, sparking debates about player safety and the necessity of preseason games.

Fun Facts About NFL Preseason

The NFL preseason has its share of fun and quirky facts. Here are some lighthearted tidbits about the preseason.

31. Some teams have unique traditions for their preseason games, such as the Green Bay Packers' "Family Night" scrimmage.
32. Preseason games often feature unusual matchups, such as the annual "Governor's Cup" game between the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans.
33. The NFL preseason is a popular time for fans to see their favorite players up close, as tickets are often cheaper and more available.
34. Some players have earned nicknames based on their preseason performances, such as "Mr. August" for players who excel in preseason games.
35. The NFL preseason is a popular time for fantasy football drafts, as fans get a first look at potential breakout players.

Future of NFL Preseason

The NFL preseason is constantly evolving, and its future is a topic of much discussion. Here are some facts about the future of the NFL preseason.

36. The NFL has considered reducing the preseason schedule to three games.
37. There have been discussions about expanding the regular season to 18 games, which would likely result in a shorter preseason.
38. The NFL is exploring ways to make preseason games more meaningful, such as introducing new rules or formats.
39. Some teams have experimented with joint practices during the preseason, allowing them to scrimmage against other teams.
40. The future of the NFL preseason will likely be shaped by ongoing debates about player safety, fan interest, and the overall structure of the NFL season.

The Final Whistle

NFL preseason is more than just a warm-up. It's a stage where rookies shine, veterans fine-tune their skills, and coaches test strategies. Fans get a sneak peek at what the regular season might hold. From the Hall of Fame Game kicking things off to the intense battles for roster spots, there's never a dull moment. Preseason games might not count in the standings, but they matter in many other ways. They build excitement, reveal hidden talents, and sometimes, even spark controversies. So next time you catch a preseason game, remember there's a lot more happening than meets the eye. It's a crucial part of the NFL experience, setting the stage for the thrilling season ahead. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, there's always something to enjoy and learn from these early games.