Ever find yourself checking the calendar over and over, counting the days until the first NFL kickoff? Honestly, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too scrolling through sports sites and double-checking preseason dates just to get that little rush of excitement. The wait can feel endless, but let’s break it down so you know exactly when the action begins.
When the 2023 NFL Season Started
The official 2023 NFL regular season kicked off on Thursday, September 7, 2023. The opening game featured the defending Super Bowl champions hosting a prime time match up that set the tone for the year. From that night on, fans enjoyed 18 weeks of regular-season football leading into the playoffs.
If you were counting down from January 1 of that year, it was 249 days until that first Thursday night game. From mid-summer training camps, it was only a few dozen days. Either way, fans had a long off season to wait.
Key Dates Leading Up to Kickoff
Here’s how the schedule unfolded for anyone who likes to plan ahead:
- April 27–29, 2023 – NFL Draft weekend brought new rookies to every roster.
- Late July 2023 – Training camps opened, giving the first real taste of football.
- August 3, 2023 – Hall of Fame Game served as the preseason’s ceremonial start.
- August 10–27, 2023 – Preseason games warmed up players and fans alike.
- September 7, 2023 – Regular season officially began.
Think about this: even if you weren’t in a stadium, those preseason match ups gave you a way to scratch the football itch a little earlier.
Why the Countdown Matters
Counting down isn’t just about numbers. It’s about the build-up fantasy drafts, tailgate planning, and those friendly rivalries with coworkers. Knowing the exact start helps you schedule watch parties and set fantasy lineups without scrambling at the last minute.
Quick Tips for Next Season’s Countdown
If you want to stay ahead for upcoming years:
- Mark the Draft – Once the draft date is out, you can guess the kickoff date. It’s almost always the Thursday after Tabor Day.
- Use Countdown Apps – Apps or widgets keep the clock ticking right on your phone.
- Follow Team Updates – Training camp start dates signal how close you are.
In my experience, these small steps make the off season fly by.
FAQs
How many NFL games are in the everyday season
Since 2021, each team plays 17 regular-season games across 18 weeks.
When do playoffs usually start
Playoffs typically begin in early January, running through late January, with the Super Bowl in early February.
What channel airs the season opener
The NFL rotates networks, but Thursday night openers often appear on NBC or a major streaming partner.
When is the NFL Draft each year
Usually late April, but the exact dates shift slightly year to year.
Will the start date change in the future
Not much. The league has kept the Thursday after Lab-or Day for years, so you can safely plan around it.
Final Thoughts
The truth is, the countdown to NFL football is part of the fun. Whether you were circling September 7, 2023, on your calendar or just checking your phone daily, the build-up made kickoff night even better.
This article will be updated regularly with new insights so when the next season approaches, you’ll always know exactly how many days are left until kickoff.
