The 2025 NFL preseason kicks off tonight, July 31st, 2025, at 8 PM ET with the traditional Pro Football Hall of Fame Game. The official start to the regular season is Thursday, September 4th, 2025 – let the countdown commence.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025 includes tight end Antonio Gates, cornerback Eric Allen, defensive end Jared Allen, and wide receiver Sterling Sharpe, whose brother, Shannon Sharpe, is also a hall of famer – making them the first brothers inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The NFL legends beat out a pool of finalists, such as Adam Vinatieri, Eli Manning, Fred Taylor, Luke Kuechly, Reggie Wayne, and Terrell Suggs.

The 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game will be played between the Chargers and Lions. The former No. 3 overall draft pick, quarterback Trey Lance, is set to make his Chargers debut. While the Lions will be rolling with former Tennessee star Hendon Hooker at quarterback. Trey Lance is expected to play the first half, while QB DJ Uiagalelei is set for his first NFL action in the second half. Hendon Hooker is expected to split reps with QB Kyle Allen.

Other players to watch are Chargers’ first-round pick RB Omarion Hampton and second-round pick WR Tre Harris. For the Lions’ side, third-round selection WR Isaac TeSlaa is key to keep an eye on.

It is predicted to be a rainy, windy game in Canton, Ohio. Although it is only preseason, it is great to see the pigskin flying around again and knowing that the regular season is right around the corner. It should be an entertaining contest (well, as exciting as preseason can be) between two storied franchises.

Our prediction: Chargers

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