Browns vs Eagles | NFL Preseason Week 2 | August 16, 2025
The NFL Preseason enters its second week with a matchup that blends gritty AFC North football with the high-powered NFC East style. On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the Cleveland Browns will visit the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET, and fans can catch every play live on FuboTV and Ticketsmaste.
While preseason games don’t count toward the standings, they are a crucial stage for roster decisions, position battles, and installing key offensive and defensive schemes. This Week 2 showdown is a chance for both teams to fine-tune their approach ahead of the regular season while giving younger players valuable snaps in a competitive setting.
Game Information
- Matchup: Cleveland Browns vs. Philadelphia Eagles
- Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
- TV Broadcast & Streaming: FuboTV (Live Stream)
Cleveland Browns – Preseason Overview
The Browns head into the 2025 preseason with an eye toward building on their defensive dominance and establishing more offensive consistency. Quarterback Deshaun Watson remains the centerpiece of the offense, but Cleveland will use this preseason to evaluate backup quarterbacks and test new play designs without risking starters in extended action.
In Week 1 of the preseason, Cleveland’s defense displayed its trademark intensity, forcing early punts and limiting big plays. On offense, the focus was on timing and rhythm, particularly in the short passing game and establishing the run with depth backs.
Key areas of focus for the Browns:
- Quarterback Depth: Finding a capable and reliable backup option.
- Offensive Line Shuffling: Testing depth across guard and tackle positions.
- Secondary Communication: Ensuring seamless coverage adjustments against fast-paced offenses.
Philadelphia Eagles – Preseason Overview
The Eagles enter this matchup looking to rebound from last year’s late-season struggles by reestablishing their physical dominance on both lines of scrimmage. Head coach Nick Sirianni uses the preseason strategically—giving starters minimal snaps while putting backups and rookies in real-game scenarios to test their readiness.
Philadelphia’s Week 1 preseason game showed flashes of explosive plays from young receivers and running backs, while the defense showcased improved pass rush depth. The linebacker group also received extended playing time to build chemistry.
Key areas of focus for the Eagles:
- Backup QB Play: Evaluating depth behind Jalen Hurts.
- Defensive Rotation: Developing consistent pass rush and run defense from second- and third-string units.
- Special Teams Execution: Improving coverage and return blocking schemes.
Game Dynamics – What to Watch
Preseason Week 2 often sees starters playing just long enough to establish a rhythm before turning things over to younger players fighting for roster spots. Expect both teams to focus on situational football—red-zone efficiency, third-down conversions, and clock management.
Likely game flow:
- First quarter: Limited appearances from starters like Deshaun Watson and Jalen Hurts.
- Second and third quarters: Heavy rotation of backups and rookies on both sides.
- Fourth quarter: Deep roster evaluation, with emphasis on execution and effort.
Matchup Breakdown
Offense
The Browns are expected to lean on their running game early, using a combination of veterans and young backs to test Philadelphia’s defensive front. Cleveland’s passing attack may be conservative but will focus on developing chemistry between quarterbacks and receivers.
The Eagles’ offense thrives on versatility. Even with backups in the game, expect them to run a mix of RPO (run-pass option) looks, quick throws, and occasional deep shots to keep the Browns’ defense honest.
Defense
Cleveland’s defense is aggressive, relying on a strong pass rush and disciplined secondary play. They’ll aim to disrupt Philadelphia’s offensive rhythm, especially against less experienced quarterbacks.
Philadelphia’s defense has depth on the line, and their ability to pressure the quarterback will be a deciding factor in limiting Cleveland’s offensive success.
Players to Watch
Cleveland Browns:
- Deshaun Watson (QB): Will likely play one or two series to sharpen timing.
- Jerome Ford (RB): Competing for a bigger role in the backfield.
- Greg Newsome II (CB): A steady presence in the secondary.
Philadelphia Eagles:
- Tanner McKee (QB): Young passer pushing for the backup spot.
- Kenneth Gainwell (RB): Dynamic runner and pass-catching threat.
- Nolan Smith (LB/EDGE): Explosive defender looking to earn more snaps.
Coaching Strategies
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski will prioritize clean execution, particularly on offense, to avoid turnovers and stalled drives. He’ll also continue to test defensive packages that allow for quick adjustments against mobile quarterbacks.
Nick Sirianni will focus on aggressive defensive play-calling early, while offensively keeping things simple but efficient to test player decision-making. Expect the Eagles to give special teams units plenty of in-game reps.
Prediction
Preseason results often come down to depth, and both the Browns and Eagles have strong rosters beyond their starters. The game could be close, but Philadelphia’s home crowd and defensive depth might give them a slight edge late.
Projected Outcome: Eagles 21 – Browns 17
The Browns vs. Eagles Week 2 preseason matchup at Lincoln Financial Field offers fans more than just an exhibition—it’s a glimpse into each team’s depth, adaptability, and readiness for the regular season. Both squads will use this game as an important evaluation tool for roster decisions and scheme adjustments.
For fans watching live on FuboTV, Saturday’s 1:00 PM ET kickoff is the perfect opportunity to see emerging talent, position battles, and the coaching decisions that could shape the 2025 NFL season.
