5:50 p.m. ET: After the what seemed like the longest offseason in NFL history, New England Patriots football finally is back.

The Patriots take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL kickoff game Thursday night. The game begins at 8:30 p.m. ET, but pregame ceremonies will start at 8.

Fans are starting to filter into the Gillette Stadium parking lot, but the stands haven't begun to fill up just yet. The weather certainly could be more pleasant. There's a steady rain falling that doesn't look like it will let up any time soon.

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While you wait for the game, check out NESN.com 2015 Football Preview Show:

Plus, check out what to watch in tonight's game and why the Patriots should feel optimistic about their secondary.

Wide receiver Julian Edelman already went through his pre-game catching routine. Defensive tackle Sealver Siliga also took the field for a warmup in front of trainers, indicating he might be a game-time decision.

Thumbnail photo via Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports Images