The NFL’s 2025-26 season opens on Sept. 4, 2025, when the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC; the Eagles return with QB Jalen Hurts and RB Saquon Barkley, while Dallas arrives after trading DE Micah Parsons to Green Bay and naming Matt Eberflus as their new defensive coordinator.
Key Takeaways
- Game: Cowboys vs. Eagles, season opener, Sept. 4, 2025, 8:20 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia).
- Broadcast: National telecast on NBC.
- Free streaming options: Peacock free trial and DIRECTV free trial (trial lengths vary by provider).
- Eagles begin title defense with largely the same core roster led by Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley.
- Cowboys enter the opener after a high-profile offseason defensive shakeup, including Micah Parsons’ trade and a new defensive coordinator.
- Local blackout rules and trial availability can affect access for some viewers.
Verified Facts
The kickoff for the 2025 NFL season is scheduled for Sept. 4, 2025, with kickoff set at 8:20 p.m. ET. NBC holds the national broadcast rights for the game, meaning viewers with NBC access can watch the matchup live.
Philadelphia, the reigning Super Bowl champion, will field a roster that keeps key contributors from the title team, notably quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley. The Eagles’ opening-night lineup signals continuity as they begin their title defense.
The Dallas Cowboys made notable offseason moves on defense, including trading Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers and hiring Matt Eberflus as their defensive coordinator. Those changes represent a significant schematic reset for Dallas’ defense entering the new season.
Context & Impact
Season-opening games draw heavy national interest and often set narratives for the first weeks of the schedule. A smooth title defense by Philadelphia would reinforce their standing as a top contender, while an immediate adjustment to life after Parsons will be a storyline for Dallas.
Streaming is increasingly the default for cord-cutters, but access depends on the service and local permissions. NBC’s national window usually appears on both traditional broadcast and streaming platforms that carry NBC channels live.
- Peacock: Offers live NBC streaming for many national games and typically provides a free trial period to new users, after which a paid tier is required for continued access.
- DIRECTV Stream: Often includes NBC in select packages and frequently offers a short free trial for new subscribers; package availability and trial terms vary.
The teams have issued season-opening notes through their official outlets confirming roster moves and coaching hires; broadcasters list the game as the official 2025 season kickoff.
Team statements and broadcasters
Unconfirmed
- Exact availability of free trials for all viewers may vary by state and past subscription history with the provider.
- Local blackout restrictions or affiliate carriage issues could prevent streaming via Peacock or other services in some markets.
Bottom Line
This evening’s Cowboys vs. Eagles game is the NFL’s official season opener on Sept. 4, 2025, at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC. Cord-cutters can often watch via Peacock’s trial or a DIRECTV free trial if those offers are available in their area, but viewers should confirm local access and trial terms before kickoff.