For as much negative attention the concept of preseason games has received over the years, in part leading to a reduction from four games to three on the preseason schedule, front offices and coaching staffs love the games. A preseason schedule gives each team more time and exposure to determine which players best help them achieve their goals that season.
In that regard, last season was rock bottom. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the cancelation of the entire preseason, forcing teams to make roster decisions without seeing players at game speed. The return of the preseason this year, beginning with the Pittsburgh Steelers vs.