11 Best NFL Streaming Services For 2024
NFL fans eagerly anticipating the 2024 season face a crucial challenge: how to catch every thrilling moment without missing a single play. With numerous streaming options, choosing the perfect service can be as daunting as a fourth-down decision.
The fear of missing game-changing plays or experiencing frustrating technical issues during crucial moments looms large. With so many services claiming to offer the best coverage, how can fans ensure they’re making the right choice ?
This comprehensive guide will discuss the best NFL streaming services for the 2024 season, helping you make an informed decision and ensuring you’re perfectly positioned to catch all the action without missing a beat.
Best NFL Streaming Services – An Overview
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s take a bird’s-eye view of the major players in the NFL streaming game:
| NFL Streaming Service | Game Availability | Free Trial | Subscription Price Starts From |
|---|---|---|---|
| NFL+ | All games (mobile only for live) | ❌ | $6.99/month |
| YouTube TV + NFL Sunday Ticket | All games | Varies | $167.74/month + $379/year |
| Peacock | Sunday Night Football, 1 exclusive game | ❌ | $7.99/month |
| Paramount+ | CBS games | 7 days | $7.99/month |
| ESPN | Monday Night Football, some playoff games | None | Available with other streaming services |
| Prime Video | Thursday Night Football | 30 days | $8.99/month |
| Netflix | 2 exclusive games | ❌ | $6.99/month |
| Sling TV | ESPN, NFL Network, some local channels | ❌ | $40/month |
| Hulu + Live TV | Local channels, ESPN, NFL Network | ❌ | $76.99/month |
| Fubo | Local channels, ESPN, NFL Network | 7 days | $79.99/month |
Now that we have a snapshot of the field let’s break down ways to watch the NFL games without cable even further to help you make the best choice for your NFL viewing needs.
1. NFL+
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | All regular season, playoff, and Super Bowl games (live on mobile only) |
| Max Streaming Quality | 1080p |
| DVR Storage & Retention | On-demand replays available |
NFL+ is the league’s official streaming service, designed to keep fans connected to the action wherever they go. The NFL Redzone is an excellent option for those who primarily watch games on mobile devices or want access to a vast library of NFL content.
The service provides live streaming of local and primetime games, though it’s important to note that live viewing on TVs is limited.
NFL+ Key Features
- Live local and primetime games on mobile devices
- Game replays and highlights
- Live game audio
- NFL Network shows on-demand
- Access to NFL Films archive
Pricing: NFL+ starts at $6.99/month or $49.99/year. For additional features like full game replays and coaches’ film, you can upgrade to NFL+ Premium at $14.99/month or $99.99/year.
2. YouTube TV And NFL Sunday Ticket
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | All out-of-market Sunday afternoon games, plus local and primetime games |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K (where available) |
| DVR Storage & Retention | Unlimited cloud DVR (9 months retention) |
YouTube TV’s acquisition of NFL Sunday Ticket has revolutionized the NFL streaming landscape. This combination offers the most comprehensive NFL coverage available, making it a top choice for fans who want to catch every possible game.
The integration with YouTube TV’s existing features, like unlimited DVR, adds significant value to the package. While there’s a free trial for this service before subscribing, the number of days varies.
Check out how to get started with the YouTubeTV free trial from our guide.
YouTube TV And NFL Sunday Ticket Key Features
- Access to all out-of-market Sunday afternoon games
- Integration with YouTube TV’s channel lineup
- Multi-view option to watch multiple games simultaneously
- Key plays and highlights features
Pricing: YouTube TV starts at $72.99/month. NFL Sunday Ticket can be added for $349/season, with a $100 discount if bundled with YouTube TV.
3. Peacock
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Sunday Night Football, 1 exclusive game |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K (for select content) |
| DVR Storage & Retention | No DVR, on-demand replays available |
Peacock, NBC Universal’s streaming platform, offers a mix of live sports and on-demand content. For NFL fans, its primary draw is the live streaming of Sunday Night Football games, which often feature high-profile matchups.
While it doesn’t offer comprehensive NFL coverage, it’s a solid choice for casual fans or those who already enjoy NBC’s content.
Did you know? – The Peacock free trial has expired, but still you can get a Peacock free trial for a minimum of 14 days.
Peacock Key Features
- Live streaming of NBC’s Sunday Night Football
- One exclusive NFL game per season
- Extensive library of NFL-related content and highlights
- Access to other sports and entertainment content
Pricing: Peacock’s ad-supported plan starts at $5.99/month, with an ad-free option available for $11.99/month.
4. Paramount+
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | All CBS games, including playoffs and Super Bowl |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K (for select content) |
| DVR Storage & Retention | No DVR, on-demand replays available |
Paramount+ is an excellent option for fans whose local CBS affiliate carries their favorite team’s games. It provides access to all CBS NFL broadcasts, including playoff games and the Super Bowl when it’s CBS’s turn to air it.
The service also offers a rich selection of NFL-related content and analysis. Before getting started with Paramount+ you have a week’s time to test the service with the Paramount+ free trial.
Paramount+ Key Features
- Live streaming of all NFL games on CBS
- NFL-related shows and documentaries
- Extensive library of other sports and entertainment content
Pricing: Paramount+ Essential plan starts at $5.99/month, with a premium ad-free plan available for $11.99/month.
5. ESPN
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Monday Night Football, some playoff games |
| Max Streaming Quality | 1080p (4K for select events) |
| DVR Storage & Retention | Available through cable/satellite providers or live TV streaming services |
ESPN is a cornerstone of NFL coverage, most notably as the home of Monday Night Football. The network offers comprehensive NFL content throughout the week, including live games, in-depth analysis, and expert commentary.
While ESPN’s streaming options are typically tied to cable subscriptions or live TV streaming services, it’s an essential channel for avid NFL fans.
ESPN Key Features
- Exclusive broadcaster of Monday Night Football
- Coverage of select NFL playoff games
- Extensive pre-game and post-game analysis
- Access to NFL-related shows like NFL Live and Sunday NFL Countdown
Pricing: ESPN is typically included in cable and satellite packages, as well as in many live TV streaming services. Standalone access to ESPN’s live content is available through services like Sling TV or YouTube TV too.
6. Prime Video
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Thursday Night Football |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K |
| DVR Storage & Retention | On-demand replays available |
Amazon’s Prime Video has become the exclusive home of the 15 Thursday Night Football games, making it a crucial addition for fans who want to catch every game of the week.
The service offers high-quality streams and unique features that enhance the viewing experience. The additional 30-day free Prime video trial, allows users to use and try out the streaming service for a month.
Prime Video Key Features
- Exclusive broadcaster of Thursday Night Football
- X-Ray feature for live stats and insights
- Multiple audio options, including local radio broadcasts
Pricing: Prime Video is included with Amazon Prime membership ($14.99/month or $139/year) or can be subscribed to separately for $8.99/month.
7. Netflix
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | 2 exclusive Christmas day games |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K |
| DVR Storage & Retention | On-demand replays likely available |
Netflix is a newcomer to live sports streaming, offering two exclusive NFL games on Christmas Day. While not a comprehensive NFL package, it’s an interesting addition for existing Netflix subscribers who want to catch some holiday football action.
Apart from the live NFL action during Christmas, you can utilize the most of your Netflix subscription with trending movies and television shows. Use these Netflix secret codes to find your next watch.
Netflix Key Features
- Two exclusive NFL games on Christmas Day
- Vast library of non-sports entertainment content
- Watch on 4 supported devices at a time
- Download on 6 supported devices at a time
Pricing: Netflix plans start at $6.99/month for the ad-supported tier, with higher tiers offering better video quality and more concurrent streams.
8. Sling TV
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | ESPN, NFL Network, some local channels (varies by location) |
| Max Streaming Quality | 1080p |
| DVR Storage & Retention | 50 hours included, upgradeable to 200 hours |
Sling TV offers a more affordable entry point for cord-cutters who want access to ESPN and NFL Network with FOX, ABC, NBC, while also providing the NFL+ Network as an add-on.
Its flexible packages allow users to customize their channel lineup, though local channel availability can be limited depending on location. Check out the entire list of Sling TV channels here.
Sling TV Key Features
- Flexible channel packages
- Access to ESPN and NFL Network and other channels
- Add-on options for additional sports channels
Pricing: Sling TV packages start at $40/month, with the option to combine packages for more comprehensive coverage.
10. Hulu + Live TV
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local channels, ESPN, NFL Network |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K (for select content) |
| DVR Storage & Retention | Unlimited cloud DVR (9 months retention) |
Hulu + Live TV offers a robust package for NFL fans, combining live TV channels with a vast on-demand library.
The inclusion of Disney+ and ESPN+ in the bundle adds significant value, making it an attractive option for households with diverse viewing preferences along with the NFL games. However, only 2 people can watch Hulu simultaneously, so you will have to manage your access accordingly.
Hulu+ Key Features
- Comprehensive channel lineup including local networks
- Bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+
- Extensive on-demand library
Pricing: Hulu + Live TV starts at $76.99/month, which includes Disney+ and ESPN+.
11. Fubo
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local channels, ESPN, NFL Network |
| Max Streaming Quality | 4K (for select content) |
| DVR Storage & Retention | 1000 hours cloud DVR |
Fubo is designed with sports fans in mind, offering a comprehensive package of channels for NFL viewing along with other sports content. It offers direct access to the NFL network, FOX channel, NBC Channel, and ABC network and furthermore covering a good range of NFL action
Its multi-view feature and generous DVR storage make it an excellent choice for die-hard sports enthusiasts.
Fubo Key Features
- Sports-centric channel lineup
- Multi-view capability for watching multiple games
- Extensive DVR storage
Pricing: Fubo plans start at $79.99/month, with add-ons available for additional sports content.
Streaming NFL Through Cable TV Apps
For those who maintain a cable TV subscription, network apps like CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and NBC Sports provide streaming access to their respective NFL broadcasts.
These apps typically require authentication with your cable provider credentials and do not function as standalone streaming services.
They offer a convenient way to watch games on the go or on devices not connected to your cable setup.
How To Stream NFL In India And Canada
To watch NFL outside of the USA, especially for NFL fans in India and Canada, DAZN offers a comprehensive solution:
- DAZN provides NFL Game Pass, offering live and on-demand access to all NFL games
- Available in both countries, with pricing varying by region
- In Canada, DAZN costs CAD 24.99/month or CAD 199.99/year
- In India, pricing is around INR 750/month or INR 2,000/year (subject to change)
DAZN’s NFL Game Pass provides a one-stop solution for international fans, offering live streams, on-demand replays, and additional NFL content. It’s particularly valuable in markets where traditional TV coverage of the NFL might be limited.
Alternatively, you can consider using a VPN. While VPN services might seem like a tempting option for accessing geo-restricted content, it’s important to note that this may violate terms of service and could potentially have legal implications.
Always prioritize official, licensed streaming options when available to ensure you’re supporting the league and staying on the right side of the law.
Which Streaming Provider Covers The Most About NFL
When it comes to the sheer volume of NFL content, YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket currently stands at the top of the heap.
This combination provides access to:
- Local games through regional networks
- Primetime games on NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network
- All out-of-market Sunday afternoon games via NFL Sunday Ticket
- Extensive DVR capabilities for recording games
- NFL Network for additional coverage and analysis
Adding NFL+ to this mix would cover virtually every possible NFL viewing scenario, including mobile viewing and access to NFL Films content.
However, it’s worth noting that this comprehensive coverage comes at a premium price point. Other services might offer a more cost-effective solution for fans who don’t need every single game while still providing substantial NFL content.
Can One Streaming Provider Be Enough For Watching NFL?
The quest for the perfect NFL streaming setup often leads to a crucial question: can one service provide everything a fan needs? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward.
While services like YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket offer the most comprehensive coverage, even they don’t capture absolutely everything. To catch every single NFL game, you might need to combine services. For most fans, a combination of a live TV streaming service and NFL+ can provide a satisfying amount of coverage.
The key is to assess your viewing habits and priorities:
- Local Team Focus: If you primarily watch your local team’s games, a service that offers your local CBS, Fox, and NBC affiliates might be sufficient.
- Primetime Game Enthusiast: For fans who love the big matchups, a combination of services covering Sunday Night, Monday Night, and Thursday Night Football could be enough.
- Out-of-Market Team Fan: If you’re living away from your favorite team’s market, NFL Sunday Ticket becomes crucial to watch out of market games.
- Comprehensive Coverage Seeker: For those who want it all, combining YouTube TV, NFL Sunday Ticket, and NFL+ would cover virtually every base.
Remember, no single service offers every game plus all the analysis, highlights, and additional content you might want. The goal is to find the right balance between coverage and cost that works for your specific needs.
Tips To Make The Most Of NFL Streaming Services
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your NFL streaming experience, consider these strategies:
- Month-based approaches:
- September-December: Focus on services with regular season coverage like YouTube TV, NFL Sunday Ticket, and Prime Video
- January: Ensure you have access to CBS and Fox for playoffs (Paramount+, YouTube TV, or an antenna)
- February: Prepare for the Super Bowl by confirming access to the broadcasting network (changes yearly)
- Leverage DVR and on-demand features:
- Utilize YouTube TV’s unlimited DVR for recording games you can’t watch live
- Take advantage of NFL+’s game replays for catching up on missed action
- Use services with robust on-demand libraries to watch analysis and highlights at your convenience
- Strategic service bundling:
- Consider the Disney bundle (Hulu + Live TV, ESPN+, Disney+) for comprehensive sports and entertainment
- Combine YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket for the most extensive NFL coverage
- Look for promotional bundles, especially at the start of the season
- Optimize for different devices:
- Use NFL+ for mobile viewing when you’re on the go
- Take advantage of smart TV apps for the big-screen experience
- Explore multi-view options on services like Fubo for watching multiple games simultaneously
- Explore unique viewing experiences:
- Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 users can enjoy immersive viewing experiences with supported apps, potentially watching games on virtual big screens or in 3D environments
- Look for interactive features like Amazon’s X-Ray for real-time stats and insights
- Stay informed about blackouts and restrictions:
- Understand local market restrictions that might affect game availability
- Keep an antenna handy for locally broadcast games that might be blacked out on streaming services.
- Take advantage of free trials and promotions:
- Many services offer free trials at the beginning of the season
- Look for special promotions around major events like the Super Bowl
By implementing these strategies, you can create a tailored NFL viewing experience that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Factors To Consider While Selecting The NFL Streaming Service
The exact streaming service you want would totally be primarily based on the time you get and the money you want to invest and several other factors. As you make your decision, consider these key factors:
- Coverage Needs: Determine which games are most important to you. Do you need every out-of-market game, or are you primarily interested in your local team and primetime matchups?
- Budget: Balance your desire for comprehensive coverage with what you’re willing to spend. Remember, combining services can quickly add up.
- Additional Content: Consider what else you’ll watch outside of NFL games. Services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer a wide range of content beyond sports.
- User Experience: Look for services with interfaces you find easy to navigate and features that enhance your viewing experience, such as multi-view options or interactive stats.
- Device Compatibility: Ensure the service you choose works well on the devices you plan to use for watching games.
Conclusion: The Best NFL Streaming Service Is YouTubeTV With NFL Sunday Ticket!
For the 2024-2025 NFL season, YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket stands out as the MVP. This combination offers the most comprehensive coverage of games across the league, including local broadcasts, primetime games, and out-of-market Sunday afternoon matchups.
Additionally, NFL+ and Sling TV are the cheapest NFL Streaming Services, with prices starting at just $6.99/month and $40, respectively.
Ultimately, the best NFL streaming service is the one that fits your specific viewing habits, budget, and preferences. By carefully considering your needs and the options available, you can craft the perfect NFL streaming setup to enjoy every thrilling moment of the 2024-2025 season.
Lastly, remember that while having access to every game is exciting, the love of the sport truly matters. So grab your favorite jersey, prepare your game-day snacks, and prepare for another unforgettable season of NFL action, no matter how you stream it.