Justin Herbert and Pro Duck teammates Troy Dye, Jamaree Caldwell, and Nikko Reed open their 2025 NFL season with a Friday night game in Sao Paulo, Brazil against division rival Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City.
Jeffrey Bassa suits up for the Chiefs.
It's the NFL's second-ever game in the South American country as it seeks to grow international interest in the sport. Last year Philadelphia and Green Bay met in Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo, a game won by the Eagles, 34-29.
Another unusual dimension of this matchup is that the game will be broadcast free on YouTube and YouTube TV, beginning at 5 p.m. PT. AFC Champion Kansas City is a 3.5-point favorite.
The media asked Herbert about the trip and he said, “I love to travel. I’m really excited. I think it’s really cool. I’ve heard it’s going to be really loud.”
“I’ve only ever heard good things about the place…To be able to come see the place, see the culture, get a feel for things, I’m really excited for it," the sixth-year pro said.
It's the first NFL game of their rookie season for Caldwell and Reed, Big Ten Champions at Oregon last year. Reed made the 53-man roster as an undrafted free agent after posting a 91.1 coverage grade in the preseason, displaying great recognition and anticipation in coverage as a cornerback.