How to Watch NFL Football Games Today: Best Streaming Options

Introduction: Your Ultimate Guide to NFL Streaming in 2025

The roar of the crowd, the thrill of a touchdown, the strategic battles on the gridiron – NFL football is a national obsession. In 2025, watching your favorite team play has never been easier, thanks to a plethora of streaming options. This guide will navigate you through the best ways to watch NFL football games today, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of the action, no matter where you are.

Understanding NFL Broadcasts: Where Games Air

Before diving into streaming services, it's crucial to understand which networks typically broadcast NFL games. This knowledge is key to selecting the right subscription. The primary broadcast partners for the 2025 NFL season include:

• CBS: Primarily airs AFC games on Sundays.
• FOX: Primarily airs NFC games on Sundays.
• NBC: Broadcasts Sunday Night Football, featuring prime-time matchups.
• ESPN: Airs Monday Night Football.
• Amazon Prime Video: Holds exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football.
• NFL Network: Carries a selection of games, including some international matchups and exclusive content.
• Local Affiliates: Many Sunday games are broadcast on your local CBS and FOX affiliates. Accessing these is vital for regional fans.

Understanding these networks helps you identify which streaming services will carry the games you want to watch. For instance, if you're an AFC fan who loves Sunday afternoons, ensuring your service carries CBS is paramount. If Thursday Night Football is your ritual, Amazon Prime Video becomes a necessity.

Live TV Streaming Services: The All-in-One Solution

Live TV streaming services have revolutionized how we consume television, offering a package of channels similar to traditional cable but delivered over the internet. For NFL fans, these services are often the most comprehensive solution, bundling local channels, national sports networks, and premium sports content into a single subscription. Here’s a look at the top contenders for 2025:

fuboTV: The Sports Lover's Dream

fuboTV started with a focus on sports and has since expanded to include a wide array of entertainment channels. It’s renowned for its extensive sports channel lineup, making it a top choice for dedicated fans. In 2025, fuboTV continues to be a strong contender for NFL streaming.

• Key Channels: CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, NFL RedZone (with certain add-ons or higher tiers).
• Pros: Unmatched sports channel selection, including many niche sports. Excellent DVR capabilities. High-quality streaming.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than other options. Some popular entertainment channels might be missing compared to broader services.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Basic plans start around $79.99/month, with premium tiers and add-ons increasing the cost.
• Ideal for: Die-hard sports fans who want access to almost every game and sport imaginable, including NFL RedZone.

Hulu + Live TV: Entertainment and Football Combined

Hulu + Live TV offers a compelling blend of live sports and on-demand entertainment, making it a popular choice for households with diverse viewing preferences. It’s a robust option for catching NFL games, especially those broadcast on major networks.

• Key Channels: CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN. Does not typically include NFL Network or NFL RedZone in base plans.
• Pros: Bundles live TV with Hulu's extensive on-demand library and Disney+. Unlimited Cloud DVR. Good for families with varied interests.
• Cons: NFL Network and NFL RedZone are not included. Price can increase with add-ons.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Plans generally start around $76.99/month, with ad-free Hulu on-demand and sports add-ons available.
• Ideal for: Users who want live NFL games alongside a vast library of TV shows and movies, plus access to Disney+ content.

YouTube TV: A Comprehensive Streaming Hub

YouTube TV has quickly become a favorite for many cord-cutters due to its user-friendly interface, extensive channel selection, and generous DVR features. It provides a seamless way to watch NFL football.

• Key Channels: CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network. NFL RedZone is available as an add-on.
• Pros: Unlimited Cloud DVR storage. User-friendly interface. Broad channel selection, including local networks. Offers a sports add-on that includes NFL RedZone.
• Cons: Price has steadily increased over the years. Limited international sports coverage compared to fuboTV.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Base plans are typically around $72.99/month, with add-ons like the Sports Plus Pack costing extra.
• Ideal for: Those looking for a comprehensive, easy-to-use service with unlimited DVR and access to all major NFL broadcast networks and NFL Network.

Sling TV: Customizable and Affordable Options

Sling TV offers a more modular approach to live TV streaming, allowing users to customize their channel packages. This can make it a more budget-friendly option for NFL fans, provided they select the right base package and add-ons.

• Key Channels: Depends on the package. Sling Orange includes ESPN. Sling Blue includes FOX and NBC in select markets. CBS is not typically included in base packages. NFL Network is available with the Sports Extra add-on.
• Pros: Highly customizable. More affordable entry point than other services. Offers specific channel packs tailored to interests.
• Cons: Requires careful selection of packages and add-ons to get all desired NFL channels. Local channel availability (CBS, FOX) can be limited by location. DVR is limited in base plans.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Sling Orange or Sling Blue start around $40/month each, with combined packages available. Sports Extra add-on is typically $11/month.
• Ideal for: Budget-conscious viewers who are willing to customize their package and potentially miss out on certain games if they don't subscribe to the right add-ons.

DIRECTV STREAM: The Closest to Traditional Cable

DIRECTV STREAM aims to replicate the traditional DIRECTV satellite experience but via internet streaming. It offers robust channel packages, including many sports-specific channels, making it a viable option for NFL fans.

• Key Channels: CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network. NFL RedZone is available in higher-tier packages or as an add-on.
• Pros: Extensive channel lineups, especially in higher tiers. Unlimited DVR. No long-term contracts. Good for those who want a wide variety of channels beyond just sports.
• Cons: Can be one of the most expensive options, especially for higher-tier packages. Interface may feel less modern than competitors.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Entry-level plans start around $79.99/month, with packages going up to $159.99/month for the Ultimate tier.
• Ideal for: Users who want a comprehensive channel lineup, including many regional sports networks and national sports channels, and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Network-Specific Apps and Subscriptions

Beyond the all-encompassing live TV streaming services, several network-specific apps and subscriptions offer direct access to NFL games or related content. These can be cost-effective if you only need specific broadcasts or want to supplement another service.

NFL+ and NFL+ Premium: Direct from the League

The NFL's own streaming service, NFL+, offers a direct pipeline to league content. In 2025, it provides a way to watch certain games without needing a traditional cable or live TV streaming subscription.

• What it offers: Live local and primetime regular season and postseason games (on mobile devices), live local market games, live out-of-market preseason games, live game audio for all games, and an ad-free on-demand library of classic games and original content. NFL+ Premium adds NFL RedZone.
• Pros: Direct access to NFL content. Relatively affordable for the features offered. Essential for mobile viewing of local games.
• Cons: Live game streaming is primarily limited to mobile devices for regular season games. Does not include national broadcast games (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN) on non-mobile devices.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): NFL+ is around $6.99/month or $59.99/year. NFL+ Premium is around $14.99/month or $129.99/year.
• Ideal for: Fans who primarily watch games on their mobile phones or want access to live game audio and NFL RedZone without a full live TV package.

Amazon Prime Video: Thursday Night Football's Home

Amazon Prime Video secured exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football, making it a must-have for fans who don't want to miss these weekly matchups. This partnership continues into 2025.

• What it offers: Exclusive live streaming of Thursday Night Football games. Also includes a vast library of on-demand content.
• Pros: Essential for Thursday Night Football. Included with an Amazon Prime subscription, which offers many other benefits.
• Cons: Only broadcasts Thursday Night Football. Does not include any other NFL games.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Included with Amazon Prime membership, which costs around $14.99/month or $139/year.
• Ideal for: Anyone with an Amazon Prime subscription who wants to watch Thursday Night Football.

Peacock: Exclusive Sunday Night Football Games

NBC's streaming service, Peacock, has become a significant player in NFL broadcasting, offering exclusive games in addition to simulcasting some NBC Sunday Night Football contests. In 2025, this trend continues, with some key games exclusively on Peacock.

• What it offers: Exclusive broadcast of select NFL games, often including high-profile matchups. Also simulcasts NBC's Sunday Night Football games for Premium Plus subscribers.
• Pros: Access to exclusive NFL games that can't be watched elsewhere. Affordable compared to full live TV packages.
• Cons: Limited selection of NFL games compared to live TV services. Exclusive games can be a point of contention for some fans.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Peacock Premium is around $5.99/month or $59.99/year. Peacock Premium Plus (ad-free and includes NBC SNF simulcasts) is around $11.99/month or $119.99/year.
• Ideal for: Fans who want to catch specific exclusive NFL games and enjoy other NBC content, or those who want an ad-free viewing experience of Sunday Night Football.

Paramount+: CBS Broadcasts and More

Paramount+ is the streaming home for CBS content, which means it's a key platform for watching NFL games broadcast on CBS, including AFC matchups and Super Bowl LIX in 2025.

• What it offers: Live streaming of all NFL games broadcast on CBS, including local games and AFC matchups. Also includes on-demand content from CBS.
• Pros: Essential for watching CBS-broadcasted NFL games without a live TV subscription. Affordable.
• Cons: Only covers CBS broadcasts. Does not include games on FOX, NBC, or ESPN.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): Paramount+ Essential is around $5.99/month or $59.99/year. Paramount+ with SHOWTIME (ad-free for Paramount+ content and includes live CBS feed) is around $11.99/month or $119.99/year.
• Ideal for: Fans who primarily want to watch AFC games and other CBS broadcasts, or who want to catch the Super Bowl when it airs on CBS.

ESPN+: For Specific NFL Content and Games

While ESPN itself is usually part of live TV packages, ESPN+ offers a supplementary streaming service with exclusive content, including some NFL games and extensive analysis.

• What it offers: Access to some live NFL games (often college football or international leagues that impact NFL prospects), extensive NFL Films content, and in-depth analysis. Does not typically carry Monday Night Football.
• Pros: Great for deep dives into NFL content, classic games, and supplementary football viewing.
• Cons: Does not provide access to major national NFL broadcasts like Monday Night Football or Sunday Night Football.
• Pricing (2025 Estimate): ESPN+ is typically part of the Disney Bundle or available as a standalone subscription for around $10.99/month or $109.99/year.
• Ideal for: Dedicated football fans who want more than just live games, including documentaries, analysis, and potentially some niche live football content.

Accessing Local Channels for Sunday Games

Sunday afternoons are crucial for NFL fans, with most games airing on local CBS and FOX affiliates. Accessing these channels is paramount for regional viewing. Here’s how to ensure you don’t miss out:

Over-the-Air (OTA) Antennas: The Free Option

For many, the simplest and most cost-effective way to watch local NFL games is through an Over-the-Air (OTA) antenna. Digital antennas can pick up broadcast signals from local networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, and ABC for free.

• How it works: Broadcast networks transmit their signals over the air. An antenna captures these signals, which are then decoded by your TV.
• Pros: Completely free after the initial purchase of the antenna. High-quality HD reception. No monthly fees.
• Cons: Requires a clear line of sight to broadcast towers. Performance varies by location and antenna quality. Does not provide access to cable channels like NFL Network or ESPN.
• Cost: Antennas range from $20 to $100+ depending on range and features.
• Ideal for: Anyone who wants to watch local NFL games without paying for a subscription service, provided they are within range of broadcast towers.

Streaming Services Offering Local Channels

Most major live TV streaming services include local CBS and FOX affiliates in their base packages, provided you are in a market where these channels are available via streaming. This is a key reason why many people opt for these services over individual network subscriptions.

• Services that typically include local channels: fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, DIRECTV STREAM.
• Sling TV: Availability of local channels (FOX, NBC) depends on the Sling Blue package and your location. CBS is generally not included.
• How to check: All of these services offer a channel checker on their website. You can enter your zip code to see exactly which local channels you'll receive.
• Pros: Conveniently bundles local games with national sports networks and other channels. No need for a separate antenna.
• Cons: Monthly subscription cost. Local channel availability can vary by region.
• Ideal for: Viewers who want a comprehensive streaming solution that includes both local NFL games and national broadcasts, along with other entertainment options.

Device Compatibility: Where to Watch

One of the biggest advantages of streaming NFL football is the flexibility in where and how you watch. Most popular streaming services and apps are compatible with a wide range of devices in 2025:

• Smart TVs: Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, Roku TV, Fire TV Edition, Google TV.
• Streaming Devices: Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Google Chromecast.
• Gaming Consoles: PlayStation (PS4, PS5), Xbox (One, Series X/S).
• Mobile Devices: Smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android).
• Computers: Via web browsers on Windows and macOS.

Before subscribing, it's always a good idea to check the specific device compatibility for the service you're considering. Most services offer a free trial, which is an excellent opportunity to test performance and compatibility on your preferred devices.

Cost Comparison: Finding the Best Value

The cost of watching NFL football via streaming can vary significantly. Here’s a general breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

Note: Prices are estimates for 2025 and may vary based on promotions, add-ons, and regional availability.

When comparing costs, consider not just the monthly fee but also what channels and features are included. A slightly more expensive service that includes NFL Network and NFL RedZone might be a better value than a cheaper service requiring multiple add-ons. For instance, if you only want to watch Thursday Night Football, Amazon Prime Video is the most cost-effective solution. If you want all Sunday games, a live TV streaming service is likely your best bet.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Selecting the perfect streaming service for NFL football in 2025 depends entirely on your individual viewing habits and priorities. Ask yourself these questions:

• Which games do you want to watch? Are you focused on your local team (requiring local channels), a specific conference (AFC vs. NFC), or all national primetime games?
• Do you need NFL Network or NFL RedZone? These are premium sports channels that are not included in all packages.
• What is your budget? Are you looking for the cheapest option, or are you willing to pay more for a comprehensive experience?
• Do you want bundled entertainment? Services like Hulu + Live TV offer on-demand content alongside live TV.
• How important is mobile viewing? NFL+ is optimized for mobile.

Scenario 1: The Casual Fan

If you only care about watching your local team's Sunday games and the occasional primetime matchup, an OTA antenna combined with a subscription to Amazon Prime Video (for Thursday Night Football) and perhaps Paramount+ (for CBS games) could be sufficient and very cost-effective.

Scenario 2: The Dedicated Fan

For the fan who wants to watch every possible game, including out-of-market matchups and has a strong interest in NFL Network and NFL RedZone, a comprehensive live TV streaming service like YouTube TV or fuboTV is likely the best choice. Ensure the plan includes your local CBS and FOX affiliates.

Scenario 3: The Budget-Conscious Fan

Sling TV offers the lowest entry price. By carefully selecting Sling Orange and Blue, and adding the Sports Extra package, you can get many of the essential NFL channels at a lower cost than competitors, though you might miss out on some games or features like unlimited DVR.

Scenario 4: The Entertainment Seeker

If you want live NFL games but also enjoy a vast library of on-demand movies and TV shows, Hulu + Live TV is an excellent option, especially if you are already invested in the Disney ecosystem.

Scenario 5: The Mobile Viewer

For fans who are often on the go and primarily watch on their phones, NFL+ Premium offers a compelling package, including live game audio and NFL RedZone, alongside mobile access to local games.

Don't forget free trials! Most services offer a 5-7 day free trial. Use these to test out different platforms and see which interface, channel lineup, and streaming quality best suits your needs before committing to a paid subscription. It's also wise to check for any special promotions that might be running for the 2025 season.

Conclusion: Never Miss a Snap

In 2025, the days of being tethered to a cable box to watch NFL football are long gone. The landscape of streaming has evolved to offer unparalleled flexibility and choice. Whether you're a casual fan looking to catch your local team or a dedicated enthusiast wanting to follow every game, there's a streaming solution tailored for you. From comprehensive live TV packages like YouTube TV and fuboTV that deliver all the major networks and sports channels, to specialized services like Amazon Prime Video for Thursday Night Football, Peacock for exclusive matchups, and Paramount+ for CBS broadcasts, the options are abundant. Don't forget the free alternative of OTA antennas for local games. By understanding where games air and comparing the features and costs of each service, you can confidently choose the best way to watch NFL football today and ensure you never miss a single touchdown, interception, or game-winning field goal throughout the 2025 season. Happy streaming and enjoy the games!