The Washington Commanders don't get to start the year in the highest-profile game.
But they will do so later.
Ahead of Thursday's official schedule reveal, the NFL has gradually leaked bits and pieces of the 2025 calendar.
And on Monday, FOX revealed that it will be the TV host of a blockbuster doubleheader on Saturday, Dec. 20.
The network's games on that Christmas Week? They will televise a pair of NFC division meetings in Week 16, with the Philadelphia Eagles facing the Commanders in an NFC Championship Game rematch. ... and then the Green Bay Packers will face the Chicago Bears.
We already know that from earlier on Monday. Philadelphia will launch its Super Bowl defense on Thursday, Sept. 4, against the Dallas Cowboys in the opening game for the entire league.
Do the Cowboys deserve that spotlight? Folks, that ain't what this is about; that will be one of the all-time most-watched games in NFL history ... wait and see.
Some thoughts DC should get that primetime spotlight after its incredible turnaround last year led by rookie QB Jayden Daniels. In 2024, Washington achieved its most regular-season wins (12) since 1991 and its first playoff wins in two decades.
But Washington's time will come ... with Commanders fans hoping that the result is a flip from the NFC Championship Game, a 55-23 Philly rout in which Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts each scored three rushing touchdowns.