Streaming Made Simple
The 2025 NFL season is more accessible than ever, no cable required. From free platforms to premium streaming services, here’s a clear breakdown of where to watch NFL games.
1. YouTube (including YouTube TV and YouTube NFL Sunday Ticket)
- YouTube (free stream). In a groundbreaking move, YouTube has offered NFL games free online to watch. Check to see what games will be available to stream for free, and mark your calendars for upcoming availability.
- YouTube TV. This widely-used live TV streaming service includes major channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC and ESPN. Crucially, it also carries NFL Sunday Ticket, the exclusive package for out-of-market Sunday afternoon games in the U.S.
2. Fox One
Fox One is a new standalone service from Fox, and launched August 21, 2025. Priced at $19.99/month (or bundled with ESPN for $39.99/month starting in October), it carries America’s Game of the Week and other live NFL broadcasts without needing cable.
3. ESPN+
Launched alongside Fox One, ESPN offers its own direct-to-consumer service at $29.99/month. It includes Sunday night games and other NFL content. It's available to bundle with Fox One and NFL+ premium.
4. Paramount+ and CBS Sports / The NFL Today+
- The NFL Today+ is an official streaming-only pregame show airing Sundays (10 a.m.–noon ET) via CBS Sports HQ, Paramount+ and YouTube—for free.
- Paramount+ carries live NFL games featured on the CBS network, including local and nationally broadcast matchups.
5. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime holds exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football. Subscribers can stream these games live with no additional sports package needed.
6. Peacock
Peacock is the streaming home for Sunday Night Football, simulcasting NBC’s coverage. This service also includes select exclusive playoff games and NFL Films content.
7. NFL+
NFL’s official streaming service in the U.S. Offers:
- Live audio of all games.
- Live video of in-market games on mobile devices.
- Preseason games and NFL Network access.
- Premium tier adds game replays and RedZone access.
8. Fubo Sports / fuboTV
This is a streaming service tailored for sports fans. Fubo Sports bundle costs $55.99/month and includes ESPN, Fox Sports, NFL Network, local ABC/CBS/FOX stations in some markets, 4K content, multi-view and unlimited DVR. fuboTV also offers a 5-day free trial for new users.
9. Other Live TV Streaming Services
Platforms like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV and YouTube TV (as mentioned) carry major networks, including CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN and NFL Network—depending on the package.
10. Free and Ad-supported Options
- Tubi’s NFL Channel offers free live coverage of NFL-related content (such as Game Day coverage, highlights and studio shows) though not necessarily live games.
- Tubi’s live sports channels include other sports, but not regular-season NFL games.
- CBS Sports HQ (part of NFL Today+) is free for football pregame coverage.
Summary and Recommendations
YouTube tops the list. Not only does it offer traditional viewing via YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket, but it's also pioneering free, creator-driven live game streams that bring fresh energy to the viewing experience.
If you prefer watching every game—including out-of-market Sunday afternoon matchups—YouTube TV + Sunday Ticket is your strongest bet.
NFL+ is great for mobile, in-market access and offers layering options like RedZone and replays. Meanwhile, Fubo’s sports-centric bundle and other live TV services like Hulu or Sling fill in gaps across networks. We suggest comparing pricing and trial options to find the best fit.
Free options do exist, but they're niche. Tubi and CBS Sports HQ deliver highlights, pregame coverage and studio shows, not full live games (except for special broadcasts).