After more than five long months, football is finally back.

The 2024 NFL season will begin its preseason schedule on Thursday with the annual Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. This year's contest will feature the Chicago Bears against the Houston Texans.

Even though it's a preseason game, there is always plenty of hype surrounding the Hall of Fame game since it marks the beginning of what will be six-straight months of football. With that, there's also added excitement for this year's game. While the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, Caleb Williams, won't see his first action in a Bears uniform until next week, the contest still could create additional buzz for an organization looking to make a rapid turnaround. Meanwhile, a rejuvenated Houston squad has loaded up with the addition of Stefon Diggs. Even if the biggest names don't play, football fans will still be excited to watch.

Who is playing in 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game?

It will be the Chicago Bears vs. the Houston Texans.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

When is Bears vs. Texans Hall of Fame Game?

The Bears and Texans will play Thursday, Aug. 1 at 8 p.m. ET.

Where is Bears vs. Texans Hall of Fame Game? 

The contest will be played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.

How to watch Bears vs. Texans Hall of Fame Game

The game will air on ESPN and ABC. It can also be live streamed on ESPN+.

Will Caleb Williams play in Hall of Fame Game vs. Texans?

Fans waiting to get their first glimpse of Williams in a pro setting will have to wait another week, as the quarterback and the rest of the Bears' starting offense will be held out of Thursday's game.

Backup Tyson Bagent, a second-year pro who started four games as a rookie, will open the game behind center.

Williams told reporters Monday if it were up to him, he would play because he wants the reps and "there's more pros than cons" to him playing.

"I would love to get out there and play," Williams said. "It's pretty awesome to be at Canton, but it's coach's decision."