Do NFL Preseason Games Have Overtime? 2025 Rules Clarified

David

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Post on Aug 10, 2025

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Do NFL Preseason Games Have Overtime? 2025 Rules Clarified

The NFL preseason is a time for rookies to shine, veterans to shake off the rust, and coaches to experiment with strategies. But what happens when a preseason game ends in a tie? Does the nail-biting excitement continue into overtime? The short answer, for the 2025 season and beyond, is no. Let's clarify the rules surrounding overtime in NFL preseason games.

The NFL has consistently maintained a clear distinction between regular season and preseason games, extending this to overtime rules. Unlike the dramatic sudden-death overtime periods seen in the regular season and playoffs – which underwent significant changes in recent years – preseason games do not utilize overtime.

Why No Overtime in the NFL Preseason?

Several factors contribute to the decision against overtime in preseason games:

• Player Safety: Preseason games are primarily about evaluating players and getting them game reps. Extending the game into overtime increases the risk of injuries, potentially jeopardizing the health of players who may already be carrying minor ailments. The NFL prioritizes player safety and avoids unnecessary risk in these exhibition matches.

• Limited Significance: Preseason games don't hold the same weight as regular season contests. The outcome doesn't affect playoff seeding or standings. While wins are always preferable, the focus is on performance evaluation rather than victory at all costs. Therefore, the need for a decisive overtime winner is less crucial.

• Game Clock Management: Preseason games often feature extensive substitutions and experimental strategies. Adding overtime would further complicate game management and potentially disrupt the flow of player evaluations for coaching staffs.

What Happens When a Preseason Game is Tied?

If a preseason NFL game ends in a tie, it remains a tie. There's no overtime period to break the deadlock. Both teams are credited with a tie in their records. This is a significant difference compared to the regular season's dramatic overtime format, where a winner must be declared.

2025 Season and Beyond: No Changes Expected

For the 2025 NFL season, there are no anticipated changes to this established rule. The NFL is unlikely to introduce overtime to preseason games, given the reasons outlined above. The league's focus remains on using the preseason as a valuable training and evaluation period rather than a competitive spectacle.

Key Takeaways:

• No Overtime: NFL preseason games do not have overtime periods.
• Tied Games Remain Tied: Preseason ties are recorded as ties in the standings.
• Player Safety is Paramount: The absence of overtime minimizes the risk of player injuries.
• Focus on Evaluation: Preseason games prioritize player evaluation over competitive outcomes.

This clarification should settle any confusion regarding the overtime rules for the 2025 NFL preseason. Remember to stay tuned for further updates from the NFL regarding any rule changes throughout the year. For more information on NFL rules and regulations, visit the official NFL website. [Link to NFL official website]