Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network

For NFL fans across the country—especially those rooting for the Jacksonville Jaguars—this year’s preseason schedule brings a welcome treat: the Jaguars’ Week 2 preseason game against the New Orleans Saints will be broadcast nationally on NFL Network. Unlike most preseason matchups, which are only available locally or via streaming services with regional restrictions, this game will reach millions of viewers, giving fans a chance to watch the Jaguars’ young talent, new roster additions, and evolving schemes ahead of the 2025 regular season. Scheduled for Thursday, August 21 at 7:00 PM ET, the game will be played at the Saints’ Caesars Superdome, pitting two NFC South and AFC South rivals (with a long history of preseason matchups) against each other. Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network isn’t just a broadcasting note; it’s an opportunity for the Jaguars to showcase their progress to a national audience, build fan engagement beyond their local market, and gain valuable exposure for the franchise as it aims to compete for a playoff spot. For players fighting for roster spots, it’s also a chance to prove themselves on a bigger stage—one that could make or break their NFL dreams.

Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network first stands out because of the timing and stakes of the matchup. Week 2 of the preseason is widely considered the most meaningful of the three, as most NFL teams give their starters limited playing time (usually 1-2 quarters) to shake off rust, while backups and rookies get extended reps to compete for roster spots. For the Jaguars, this game will be a key test for their new defensive additions—including free-agent signings Linval Joseph (defensive tackle) and James Bradberry (cornerback)—and rookies like first-round cornerback Denzel Burke and second-round defensive tackle Mason Graham. It will also be a chance to see how the offense integrates new backup quarterback Gardner Minshew (signed in free agency to support Trevor Lawrence) and how running back Travis Etienne Jr. looks after a career-high 1,124 rushing yards in 2024. NFL Network’s decision to broadcast this game reflects the league’s recognition of the Jaguars’ growing national appeal: after a promising 8-8 season and a roster full of young, marketable talent (like Lawrence, Etienne, and edge rusher Josh Allen), the Jaguars are no longer just a regional story—they’re a team fans across the country want to watch. “This is a great opportunity for our team,” Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson said. “To play in a nationally televised preseason game lets our players show what they’ve been working on in training camp, and it lets fans everywhere see the progress we’re making.”

A key reason Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network matters is the impact it has on fan engagement—both locally and nationally. For Jaguars fans in the Jacksonville area, the game will still be available on local TV (WJXT Channel 4), but for the thousands of Jaguars fans living outside Florida (many of whom relocated or became fans during the team’s 2017 AFC Championship run), NFL Network’s broadcast is the only way to watch the game live. NFL Network has also announced plans to enhance the broadcast with pregame and postgame coverage focused on the Jaguars, including interviews with Pederson, Lawrence, and key defensive players. The network’s pregame show, “NFL GameDay Morning,” will feature a live segment from the Superdome, with analysts breaking down the Jaguars’ offseason moves and predicting how they’ll perform in 2025. This level of coverage is a win for the Jaguars’ fan base, which has grown steadily in recent years thanks to the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster. “We hear from fans all the time who live outside Florida and can’t watch our preseason games,” said Jaguars Chief Marketing Officer Meghann Burke. “Having this game on NFL Network means they can cheer us on with the rest of the Jaguars nation—and that means the world to us.”

Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network also provides the Jacksonville Jaguars with a unique opportunity to connect with corporate partners and grow the franchise’s brand. National broadcasts attract more viewers, which means more exposure for the Jaguars’ sponsors—from local businesses in Jacksonville to national brands like TIAA (the naming rights partner for their home stadium) and EverBank (the team’s official banking partner). The team has already announced plans to host a “Jaguars Nation” watch party in downtown Jacksonville, with live music, food trucks, and appearances by the Jaguars’ cheerleaders and mascot, Jaxson de Ville. For corporate partners, this event—and the national broadcast—offers a chance to engage with fans in a fun, interactive setting, strengthening their connection to the team. Beyond sponsorships, the national broadcast also helps the Jaguars recruit new fans, especially in the Gulf Coast region (where the Saints have a strong fan base). “Any time we can play on national TV, it’s a chance to show people what Jaguars football is all about,” said Jaguars President Mark Lamping. “We want to be a team that fans across the country respect—and this game helps us do that.” For the Jacksonville Jaguars, the broadcast is more than just a way to showcase football—it’s a way to grow the franchise’s reach and build long-term success.

Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network further underscores the Jacksonville Jaguars’ focus on player development, as the national stage will push young players to perform at their best. For undrafted rookies like linebacker Rayuan Lane III (who earned a roster spot in 2024) and rookie wide receiver Tyler Scott (a seventh-round pick in 2025), this game is a chance to stand out to coaches and front-office staff. NFL Network’s broadcast will also include commentary highlighting these players, with analysts pointing out their strengths and how they fit into the Jaguars’ plans. For example, Scott—who ran a 4.35-second 40-yard dash at the combine—will likely get reps as a kick returner and slot receiver, giving fans a glimpse of his speed and playmaking ability. “Preseason games are all about opportunity, and this one is even more special because it’s on national TV,” Scott said. “I’m going to leave everything on the field—this could be my chance to show the coaches I belong.” For the Jacksonville Jaguars, player development is key to long-term success, and this broadcast gives fans a front-row seat to watch the team’s future stars grow. It also sends a message to the league that the Jaguars are serious about building a sustainable, competitive roster—one that can compete for championships for years to come.

The final takeaway from Jacksonville Jaguars’ Preseason Game Against Saints Airs on NFL Network is that this game is about more than just football—it’s about community, growth, and opportunity. For fans, it’s a chance to watch their team before the regular season, connect with other Jaguars supporters, and get excited for what’s ahead. For players, it’s a chance to prove themselves on a national stage, fight for roster spots, and take the next step in their careers. For the Jaguars franchise, it’s a chance to grow its brand, connect with corporate partners, and showcase the progress it’s made since the 2024 season. As kickoff approaches, anticipation is building: fans are planning watch parties, players are studying film, and NFL Network analysts are preparing to break down every play. Whether the Jaguars win or lose, this game will be a success for the franchise—it’s a chance to show the NFL world that Jacksonville is a team to watch in 2025. And for fans tuning in from across the country, it’s a chance to see why Jaguars football is more than just a game—it’s a community, a passion, and a promise of better days ahead.