NFL Confirms Cowboys-Eagles 2025 Opener, Lions Excluded

The Detroit Lions will not open the 2025 NFL season against the Philadelphia Eagles, as the NFL has chosen the Dallas Cowboys as the Eagles' Week 1 opponent for the season kickoff. While Lions star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown had hoped for a high-profile clash with the Eagles to start the season, the NFL avoided divisional opponents for the Thursday Night Football opener, a practice consistent for over a decade. Instead, the Lions are rumored to face division rival Minnesota Vikings in Week 1, potentially in a primetime game, marking a significant matchup to begin their quest for a third consecutive NFC North title. Despite missing out on the season opener spotlight, the Lions might benefit from reduced pressure, especially since they have new offensive and defensive coordinators following the departure of key staff. The Lions finished the 2024 season strong with a 15-2 record but suffered a surprising playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, underscoring the need for postseason resilience. The full 2025 NFL schedule is set to be released soon, with fans eager to see how the Lions' season unfolds after this early schedule news.