How many preseason games do NFL teams play?

Preparation is everything in the National Football League. Just ask the Kansas City Chiefs, the winners of consecutive Super Bowls with a roster that also endures perhaps the most brutal of all NFL training camps under head coach Andy Reid. Again, it's that preparation thing.

This is what makes the NFL preseason such a crucial period for every team as they prep for the rigors of a long and grueling regular season—and perhaps beyond. It allows players to shake off the rust of a long offseason and generate the needed stamina for the road ahead. It also allows coaches to evaluate talent in conjunction with the front office.

The preseason is comprised of training camp, which begins in mid-to-late July—depending on the franchise—and a series of preseason games. Just how many of the latter has changed over time.

Traditionally, NFL teams played four preseason games each year. This format provided ample opportunity for teams to assess their rosters and make necessary adjustments. However, in 2021, the NFL made a significant change to the schedule. With the expansion of the regular season from 16 to 17 games, forged with the new collective bargaining agreement, the league reduced the number of preseason games to three. This adjustment aimed to maintain a balance in the overall number of games players participate in, addressing concerns about player safety and fatigue. It also kept the season from starting too early or ending too late.

After a few seasons with fewer games, no one seems to be complaining. Teams still have enough time to evaluate players, while fans aren't forced to watch yet another exhibition of fringe roster prospects. It also reduces the risk of meaningless injuries.

There is one exception to this new format. Teams that participate in the Hall of Fame Game, an annual exhibition held in Canton, Ohio, play an additional preseason game. This brings their total to four, giving these teams an extra opportunity to fine-tune their lineups and game plans as they open the NFL's calendar.

Overall, the current preseason schedule strikes a nice balance between readiness and player safety, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive NFL season. As the league continues to evolve, the preseason format may undergo further adjustments, but for now, three seems to be an ideal number for players, coaches, and fans.