The 2025 NFL season opener between the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles was put on pause in the third quarter, as the game was delayed due to lightning in the area.
The weather delay occurred with 4:44 left in the third quarter. The Eagles led 24-20 when the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Philadelphia area.
Fans were asked to leave open seating areas and seek shelter in the concourses for safety.
When Will Cowboys-Eagles Resume From Lightning Delay?
Weather forecasts indicate that the storm is expected to clear by around 11:15 p.m. ET. However, if lightning is once again spotted in the area of Lincoln Financial Field, that time could be moved back.
Once the all-clear is given, teams will be allowed approximately 12 minutes to warm up, meaning the game is likely to resume around 11:30 p.m. ET, depending on the weather conditions.
Game could resume about 11:30, per NBC’s @miketirico. https://t.co/hfuDdiCvwu
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 5, 2025
This delay came at a crucial moment in the game. The Cowboys were driving and made it to the red zone with the opportunity to cut the deficit to one or to take the lead. However, Cowboys running back Miles Sanders fumbled at the Philadelphia 10-yard line, and the ball was recovered by Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell.
Both teams were gearing up for a tight finish, making the postponement even more impactful.
The NFL has protocols in place to reset the 30-minute lightning safety countdown with any new strike, which means the resumption time could be pushed further back if conditions worsen. This cautious approach ensures everyone’s safety but means patience is required from fans eager to see the season kickoff concluded.
As of now, the outlook remains hopeful for a late-night restart that will allow the Cowboys and Eagles to finish their thrilling opener under safer conditions.
This is the second-consecutive year that the season opener was delayed due to inclement weather. Last year, the Kickoff Game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs was delayed due to a severe thunderstorm. This delay happened prior to kickoff and the game eventually kicked off at 8:40 p.m ET.
The 2024 Hall of Fame Game between the Houston Texans and the Chicago Bears was also suspended and was offically called off in the fourth quarter due to inclement weather.
Updates will continue to be provided as the storm passes and officials determine when play can safely resume.
