Ditch cable, not your NFL Sundays! This guide explores NFL Streaming to catch all the action. From free local broadcasts to exclusive Thursday Night Football, there’s a perfect platform for every fan. Consider factors like favorite teams, budget, and features to find your winning stream.
Football season – it’s like a family reunion. The energy crackles, everyone gathers around the screen, and the cheers erupt with every touchdown. But what if you’ve ditched cable and embraced the world of streaming services? Can you still experience the thrill of NFL Sundays?
Absolutely! This guide dives into the exciting world of streaming NFL games, exploring your options and helping you score the perfect platform to catch all the action.
Traditional Broadcast Games (Free with Login)
There are still ways to access some NFL games for free, even without cable. However, these options come with limitations:
- CBS Sports and FOX Sports:
These apps allow you to stream local games only, but you’ll need to log in with credentials from a cable or satellite provider.
- NBC Sports:
Here you can catch Sunday Night Football, but again, a cable/satellite login is required.
Streaming Services with NFL Games (Subscription Required)
For a wider range of games and a more personalized experience, consider subscribing to a streaming service. Here are some popular options:
- NFL+ (Free and Premium tiers):
This official NFL app offers a free tier with access to local and primetime mobile games. Upgrade to Premium for NFL Network, NFL RedZone (showing every touchdown live), live game audio, and replays. Ideal for mobile viewers and die-hard fans.
- ESPN+:
Monday Night Football takes center stage here, along with select out-of-market games and a library of NFL documentaries and shows. Perfect for Monday Night Football enthusiasts and ESPN content lovers.
- YouTube TV:
This service carries the major broadcasters (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN) for local and primetime games. It also offers cloud DVR storage, making it a great option for cord-cutters who want a cable-like experience.
- Hulu + Live TV:
Similar to YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV provides access to CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN for local and primetime games. Plus, you get an on-demand library of shows and movies, making it a solid option for entertainment seekers who also enjoy NFL.
- Sling TV:
Budget-conscious viewers might find Sling TV appealing. They offer various packages with CBS, FOX, or both, but availability depends on your local market.
- Paramount+ (Premium plan required):
This service features local CBS games (with the Premium plan) along with a library of CBS shows. A good choice for CBS fans who want more than just NFL.
- Peacock (Free and Premium tiers):
Peacock offers a limited selection of Sunday Night Football games on their free tier, with more content available through their premium plan. An interesting option for Peacock subscribers who enjoy SNF.
- Amazon Prime Video (Prime membership required):
- Thursday Night Football is exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video. If you’re already a Prime member and love Thursday Night Football, this is a perfect fit.
- NFL Streaming Service Comparison Chart
| Service | Price (USD/Month) | Local Games | Exclusive Games | Additional Features | Best For |
| NFL+ (Free/Premium) | Free/$9.99 | No | Mobile Games, NFL Network (Premium) | Live Audio, Replays (Premium) | Mobile Viewers, Die-Hard Fans |
| ESPN+ | $6.99 | No | Monday Night Football, Out-of-Market Games | Documentaries, Shows | Monday Night Football Fans, ESPN Enthusiasts |
| YouTube TV | $64.99 | Yes (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN) | No | Cloud DVR, On-Demand Library | Cord-Cutters (Cable-like Experience) |
| Hulu + Live TV | $69.99 | Yes (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN) | No | Cloud DVR, On-Demand Library, Shows & Movies | Entertainment Seekers (NFL + Other Content) |
| Sling TV (Varies) | $25+ (Packages) | Select Markets (CBS, FOX) | No | Affordable Option | Budget-Conscious Viewers |
| Paramount+ (Premium) | $9.99 (Premium) | Yes (Local CBS) | No | On-Demand CBS Shows | CBS Fans (More Than Just NFL) |
| Peacock (Free/Premium) | Free/varies (Premium) | No | Select Sunday Night Football | Limited Free Tier Content | Peacock Subscribers (Bonus SNF) |
| Prime Video (Prime Membership) | Included with Prime | No | Thursday Night Football | On-Demand Movies & Shows | Prime Members (Thursday Night Football Fans) |
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Notes:
- Prices are subject to change.
- Local game availability depends on your location.
- Some features may require additional fees.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Streaming Service for NFL Games
With so many options, choosing the right streaming service requires some thought. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Your Favorite Teams and Games:
Does the service carry the channels that broadcast your local and preferred teams’ games? Does it offer exclusive games you’re interested in, like Thursday Night Football?
- Budget:
Consider monthly subscription costs and any potential add-on fees for features like NFL RedZone.
- Additional Features:
Cloud DVR storage, on-demand content libraries, and other perks can add value to your subscription.
- Device Compatibility:
Ensure the service works on your preferred devices, whether it’s your phone, tablet, smart TV, or any other streaming device you use.
Pro Tips for Scoring the Winning Stream:
Here are some additional insights to help you optimize your NFL streaming experience:
- Free Trials:
Many streaming services offer free trials, allowing you to test-drive the platform before committing. Utilize these trials to see if the channel selection, features, and interface meet your needs.
- Bundle Up:
Some services offer bundle deals that combine their streaming platform with internet access or cell phone plans. This can be a cost-effective option, especially if you’re already looking to switch providers.
- Split the Bill:
Consider splitting the cost of a streaming service with friends or family who also want to watch NFL games. This can significantly reduce your individual cost.
- Stay Legal:
Be wary of unauthorized streams. These can be unreliable, low-quality, and potentially expose you to malware. Stick to legitimate streaming platforms.
- Early Bird Gets the Pass:
Some services offer discounts for signing up early in the season. Keep an eye out for promotional deals.
- Utilize Apps:
Download the apps of your chosen streaming service(s) for convenient access on your mobile devices and tablets. This allows you to catch games on the go.
Conclusion
Cutting the cord doesn’t have to mean missing out on the thrill of NFL Sundays. With a variety of streaming services available, you can still enjoy all the action, from local games to exclusive broadcasts. By considering your team preferences, budget, and desired features, you can find the perfect platform to catch every pass, tackle, and touchdown. So, ditch the cable bill worries, grab your favorite snacks, and get ready to cheer on your team – an unforgettable NFL season awaits!
FAQs
Q: I only care about watching my local team’s games. What’s the cheapest option?
A: Check if CBS Sports or FOX Sports apps carry your local channel. These are free with a login from a cable/satellite provider, but you might be able to borrow credentials from a friend or family member for the season. Otherwise, Sling TV often offers affordable packages with CBS or FOX, depending on your local market.
Q: I want to watch Thursday Night Football, but I’m not a Prime member. Are there other options?
A: Unfortunately, Thursday Night Football is exclusive to Amazon Prime Video. However, you can consider signing up for a free trial of Prime to catch the games you’re interested in and then cancel before the trial ends.
Q: I like to switch between watching games and other shows. What service offers the best mix of NFL and entertainment?
A: Both Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer a good balance. They provide access to major channels for local and primetime NFL games, along with extensive on-demand libraries of shows and movies.
Q: I travel a lot for work. Can I still stream NFL games on the go?
A: Absolutely! Most streaming services offer mobile apps, allowing you to catch games on your phone or tablet wherever you have an internet connection.
Q: What if I don’t have a smart TV? Can I still stream NFL games?
A: Many streaming services offer compatibility with various streaming devices like Roku, Chromecast, or Fire TV Stick. You can connect these devices to your regular TV to access the streaming service and watch NFL games.
