The National Football League (NFL) is one of the most-watched sports leagues in the United States, attracting millions of viewers each season. With an increasing number of broadcasting and streaming options, finding the best way to watch NFL games can be challenging. The availability of games varies depending on the network, time, and date, with coverage spread across multiple platforms, including traditional cable, satellite television, streaming services, and mobile apps.
For the 2024–2025 NFL season, fans can access games through a variety of channels, including FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, and the NFL Network. Streaming options have also expanded, offering more flexibility for viewers who prefer to watch games on smart TVs, mobile devices, or computers. Whether you are a cable subscriber, a streaming enthusiast, or looking for free viewing options, understanding the available choices is crucial to ensure you never miss a game.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of how to watch NFL games free online this season, including subscription-based and free options, streaming services, network availability, and special broadcasts like the Super Bowl.
Watch NFL games free online: Satellite TV providers, Live TV streaming services, and other details
NFL games are available on several networks and streaming platforms, each offering different levels of coverage. Below is a breakdown of the primary ways to watch NFL games during the 2024–2025 season:
1. Traditional cable and satellite TV providers
NFL games are broadcast on multiple networks, each carrying specific matchups:
Network
| Game Coverage
| Availability
|
FOX
| NFC Sunday afternoon games, select playoff games, Super Bowl LIX
| Cable, satellite, live streaming (FOXSports.com, FOX Sports App)
|
CBS
| AFC Sunday afternoon games, select playoff games
| Cable, satellite, live streaming (Paramount+)
|
NBC
| Sunday Night Football, select playoff games
| Cable, satellite, live streaming (Peacock, NBC Sports App)
|
ESPN
| Monday Night Football
| Cable, satellite, live streaming (ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV)
|
NFL Network
| Exclusive national games, Thursday Night Football simulcasts
| Cable, satellite, live streaming (NFL app, various providers)
|
2. Live TV streaming services
For viewers without traditional cable, several live TV streaming services provide access to NFL games. Subscription costs and available channels vary by service:
Streaming Service
| Included Channels
| Monthly Cost
|
YouTube TV
| CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network
| $72.99
|
Hulu + Live TV
| CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network
| $76.99
|
fuboTV
| CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network
| $74.99+
|
Sling TV
| FOX, NBC, ESPN (NFL Network with Sling Blue)
| $40+
|
Paramount+
| CBS games only
| $5.99+
|
Peacock
| NBC games only
| $5.99+
|
ESPN+
| Monday Night Football simulcasts
| $10.99
|
Most streaming platforms offer free trials, allowing new users to test the service before committing to a subscription.
3. Free and limited-cost viewing options
Some NFL content is available for free or at a reduced cost through the following methods:
- Antenna TV: Viewers in areas with good reception can access local broadcasts of FOX, NBC, and CBS games using a digital antenna. Check the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) TV reception maps to see available stations in your area.
- NFL+: A direct-to-consumer service from the NFL offering live local and primetime games, as well as replays. Plans start at $6.99 per month.
- NFL App & NFL Channel: Offers free live game-day coverage, game replays, and highlights but does not stream full live games.
- Tubi (for Super Bowl LIX): Super Bowl LIX will stream live and free in 4K on Tubi, in addition to being broadcast on FOX.
How to choose the best NFL viewing option
The best way to watch NFL games depends on individual viewing preferences and budget. Here’s a quick recommendation guide:
Viewer Type
| Best Option
|
Cable/Satellite Subscribers
| FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network
|
Cord-Cutters (Streaming Users)
| YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV
|
Budget Viewers (Free or Low-Cost)
| Antenna TV, NFL App, Tubi (Super Bowl)
|
Local Market Viewers
| NFL+ (live local & primetime games)
|
Monday Night Football Fans
| ESPN+
|
Sunday Night Football Fans
| Peacock (NBC games)
|