Lions-Chargers to kick off preseason in Hall of Fame Game

Field Level Media|published: Wed 23rd April, 12:52 2025

From left, Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell (58), quarterback Jared Goff (16) and offensive tackle Taylor Decker (68), ready to take the field against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024.

The Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers will meet July 31 in the 2025 Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio, as part of enshrinement week.

Antonio Gates, who spent his entire career as a tight end with the Chargers (2003-2018), is among the enshrinees to the 2025 class.

The game will be played in Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton and televised by NBC Sports. The Lions will serve as the home team.

"This game features two teams that can be considered legitimate contenders to reach Super Bowl LX next February," said Jim Porter, president and CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. "For them to face each other right out of the gate in Canton, Ohio, should create a dynamic opening to another spectacular NFL season."

This will be the fourth appearance in the exhibition game for the Lions and the third for the Chargers, but the first for both since 1994.

Gates is expected to be joined at the game by fellow Class of 2025 members Eric Allen, Jared Allen and Sterling Sharpe.

--Field Level Media