Most Iconic NFL Preseason Games Ranked

Preseason games rarely make headlines, but a few have managed to stand out. Whether due to breakout performances, high-profile debuts, unexpected drama, or franchise turning points, certain matchups have left an imprint on NFL history. These games didn’t just fill the calendar ahead of Week 1, they provided unforgettable moments.

From stunning rookie plays to unforeseen rivalries and team-defining shifts, this list ranks the most iconic NFL preseason games to ever grace the field. At the time, each game offered a preview of talent or drama that would echo into the regular season and beyond.

1. Browns vs. Lions, 1959: Jim Brown’s Dominance

In a time when the preseason held more weight, this game delivered fireworks. Jim Brown, already feared by defenses, ripped through the Lions with unmatched strength. His performance set the tone for the Browns’ identity that year.

Fans left the stadium realizing they had witnessed something rare, even in a preseason setting. Brown’s dominance marked a shift in how running backs were used. The game also received unusual media attention, turning it into one of the earliest celebrated preseason performances.

2. Cowboys vs. Raiders, 1978: Staubach’s Last Preseason

Roger Staubach had already earned legendary status, but his final preseason carried emotional weight. Facing a rough-and-ready Raiders squad, Staubach showed he could still compete with younger talent, delivering efficient throws in a gritty, high-effort game.

The matchup also signaled a changing of the guard. Danny White began taking more reps, and Staubach’s presence was seen as symbolic rather than strategic. Though the Cowboys lost, the game served as a tribute to one of the sport’s most respected leaders.

3. Saints vs. Oilers, 1979: Earl Campbell Unleashed

Earl Campbell’s reputation as a power runner was already growing, but his performance against the Saints took it further. He tore through defenders, shedding tackles and bulldozing for long gains. New Orleans had no answer.

Fans and analysts alike pointed to this moment as proof that the Oilers were legit contenders. Campbell’s raw force made headlines, and his back-to-back touchdowns turned a preseason game into a must-watch event. Few backs ever ran with more fury in August.

4. Bears vs. Dolphins, 1985: A Glimpse of What Was Coming

This preseason clash hinted at the chaos the 1985 Bears would soon unleash. Even without Walter Payton, the Bears’ defense overwhelmed Dan Marino early, forcing multiple turnovers and delivering hard hits all night.

While Chicago’s offense stayed quiet, the tone set by their front seven grabbed national attention. Critics began wondering if this was a Super Bowl-level unit. Weeks later, those suspicions would be confirmed.

5. Patriots vs. Giants, 2001: Brady’s First Spark

In the second half of this game, Tom Brady, the unheralded sixth-rounder, calmly stepped in and shaped up. He showed rhythm, footwork, and composure beyond his years. His throws weren’t flashy, but they were precise.

That poised performance didn’t go unnoticed. Bill Belichick began trusting Brady more, and after Bledsoe’s injury weeks later, the rest became history. This game quietly launched one of the NFL’s most dominant eras.

6. Seahawks vs. Packers, 2008: Favre vs Rodgers Tension

This game was soaked in drama. Brett Favre, recently traded to the Jets, watched from afar while fans packed Lambeau in mixed jerseys. Some were still loyal to No. 4; others were curious about No. 12. Aaron Rodgers took the field amid pressure few quarterbacks ever face.

The Seahawks were quickly forgotten as Rodgers took command and silenced early doubters. The post-Favre era had officially begun. While the scoreboard meant little, the energy around this matchup made it one of the most emotionally charged preseason openers in memory. 

It also became a defining moment in how NFL teams and players handle leadership transitions, media scrutiny, and the pressure to perform under legacy-sized expectations.

7. Rams vs. Titans, 1999: A Super Bowl Preview

At the time, this game seemed routine. Kurt Warner wasn’t a household name, and the Titans were a physical but overlooked squad. Both teams showed signs of what would come later: poise, aggression, and chemistry.

Warner’s accuracy stood out, and Steve McNair led confident drives. Neither team knew they’d meet in February, but coaches later pointed to this preseason matchup as the first spark of their eventual title run showdown.

8. Steelers vs. Eagles, 2004: Big Ben’s First Steps

Ben Roethlisberger was meant to sit and learn, but when he took over early, he looked polished. He hit short routes and handled pressure well. Against an elite Eagles defense, his quick decisions stood out.

The fanbase noticed, and so did Pittsburgh’s front office. He wouldn’t start right away, but this game planted the seed. Within weeks, he’d be leading the Steelers to a win streak that made rookie QBs a real threat again.

9. Buccaneers vs. Bengals, 2021: Burrow’s Return

Coming off knee surgery, Joe Burrow didn’t play much, but his presence was enough to spark excitement. Every sideline shot, every throw in warmups, was broadcast with intense focus.

Tampa’s backups played well, but all eyes stayed on Burrow walking confidently. For fans, this felt like a step toward recovery. The Bengals’ confidence grew, and within months, they’d find themselves in a Super Bowl. That optimism started here.

2025 Preseason Spotlight: Chargers, Lions, and Rising Stars

The 2025 preseason kicked off on July 31 with the Hall of Fame Game between the Chargers and Lions, offering an early look at key returns and rookie debuts. NFL Network will air 21 live games, featuring names like J.J. McCarthy and Shedeur Sanders. Strong camp performances have already shifted preseason odds, especially for teams showing early cohesion.

Training buzz is building fast. Caleb Williams is under pressure in Chicago, while Joe Burrow looks sharp in Cincinnati. With injuries and surprises emerging, 2025’s preseason is already shaping narratives leading up to Week 1.

The Impact Behind Each Preseason Classic

While regular season games carry the weight of standings, preseason matchups sometimes deliver rare insight. They reveal rising stars, shifting team dynamics, and changing eras. 

Though most are forgotten by September, the best ones continue to echo in NFL history. These iconic NFL preseason games didn’t just fill airtime; they helped shape the trajectory of legends, teams, and even Super Bowl storylines.