How to Watch NFL 2025: Guide to Watching Every Game Live
Hey there, football fans! The 2025 NFL season is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already buzzing with excitement to see your favorite teams hit the gridiron. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who never misses a snap or a casual viewer tuning in for the big games, figuring out how to watch the NFL can feel like a playbook of its own. With games spread across networks, streaming platforms, and even international broadcasts, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry—I’ve been navigating the NFL viewing maze for years, and I’m here to break it all down for you. This guide will walk you through every option to catch the 2025 NFL season, from kickoff to the Super Bowl, so you can focus on cheering for your team.
Why Is This Important?
The NFL isn’t just a sport; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. From the thrill of a last-second touchdown to the nail-biting suspense of playoff games, watching the NFL is an experience like no other. Plus, with the season running from September 2025 to February 2026, it’s a great way to keep the excitement going all year long. Knowing how to watch ensures you never miss a moment of the action, whether it’s your team’s big game or the Super Bowl itself. Let’s dive into how you can catch every game in 2025.
What Are the Ways to Watch the NFL?
Overview
Watching the NFL in 2025 involves a mix of traditional television broadcasts and modern streaming services. The games are spread across several networks and platforms, each offering unique viewing experiences. Whether you’re watching on a big-screen TV or streaming on your phone, there’s an option for everyone.
Role in Broadcasting the NFL
The major networks like NBC, CBS, Fox, and ESPN have long been the backbone of NFL broadcasting, providing live coverage of games throughout the season. In recent years, streaming services have become increasingly important, offering fans more flexibility in how and where they watch the games. From Sunday afternoon matchups to primetime showdowns, these platforms ensure you can follow your team no matter your setup.
Key Features
- Traditional TV: Offers high-quality broadcasts with familiar commentators and pre-game shows that add to the game-day vibe.
- Streaming Services: Provide on-demand access, often with cool features like multi-game viewing, replays, and exclusive content.
- International Games: The NFL is going global in 2025, with games in London, Berlin, Madrid, Dublin, and São Paulo. These games are accessible via specific platforms, making it easier for international fans to join the fun.
Where and When to Watch NFL Games in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of where you can watch NFL games based on the day of the week and special events:
| Day | Weeks | Where to Watch | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday Morning/Afternoon | 1-18 | CBS, Fox, NFL Network, streaming platforms | 7 international games on NFL Network; Week 18 scheduled after Week 17 |
| Sunday Night | 1-18 | NBC, streaming platforms | Week 18 game scheduled after Week 17 |
| Monday | 1-17 | ESPN, ABC, streaming platforms | Starts Sept. 8, 8:15 p.m. ET, Vikings vs Bears; no Week 18 game |
| Thursday | 1-17 | NBC, Prime Video | Starts Sept. 4, 8:20 p.m. ET, Cowboys vs Eagles; Week 2+ on Prime Video, except Thanksgiving |
| Friday | 1, 13 | YouTube, Prime Video | Sept. 5, 8 p.m. ET, Chargers vs Chiefs on YouTube (no subscription); Nov. 28, 3 p.m. ET, Eagles vs Bears on Prime Video |
| Saturday | 18 | ESPN, ABC, streaming platforms | Jan. 3, 4:30 p.m. ET and 8 p.m. ET, teams announced after Week 17 |
| Thanksgiving | 13 | Fox, CBS, NBC, streaming platforms | Tripleheader: 1 p.m. ET Packers vs Lions (Fox), 4:30 p.m. ET Chiefs vs Cowboys (CBS), 8:20 p.m. ET Ravens vs Bengals (NBC) |
| Christmas Day | 17 | Netflix | Dec. 25, 1 p.m. ET Cowboys vs Commanders, 4:30 p.m. ET Lions vs Vikings |
Streaming Services
- YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV: These services cover ESPN, CBS, NBC, and Fox games. Try Fubo for free at Fubo TV.
- Fox One (upcoming): Will stream all Fox games. Learn more at Fox One Streaming.
- ESPN Streaming Service (upcoming): Will cover all ESPN games. Details at ESPN Streaming.
- Paramount+: Streams regional CBS games. Start watching at Paramount+.
- Peacock: Streams NBC games.
- NFL+: Access to NFL Network games, great for mobile viewing.
Playoffs and Super Bowl
- Wild-card and Divisional Rounds: Broadcast on NBC, Fox, CBS, streaming platforms, and one wild-card game on Prime Video.
- NFC Title Game: Fox.
- AFC Title Game: CBS.
- Super Bowl LX: NBC, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California. Playoffs begin January 10, 2026.
International Games
The NFL is expanding its global reach in 2025 with seven international games:
- São Paulo, Brazil: Streamed on YouTube/YouTube TV.
- London, Berlin, Madrid, Dublin: Broadcast on NFL Network. Check NFL International Games for details.
Related Questions About Watching the NFL in 2025
Where can I watch all NFL games in 2025?
To catch every game, you’ll likely need access to NBC, CBS, Fox, ESPN, NFL Network, Prime Video, Netflix, and YouTube. Streaming services like YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV cover most of these, but exclusive games on Netflix (Christmas Day) or Prime Video (Thursday Night Football) may require additional subscriptions.Can I watch NFL games without a cable subscription?
Absolutely! Cord-cutters can use YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or DirecTV to stream live TV channels like CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN. NFL+ is great for NFL Network games, while Paramount+ and Peacock cover CBS and NBC games, respectively.Are there any free ways to watch NFL games?
While most viewing options require a subscription, some games, like the Week 1 Friday game (Chargers vs Chiefs) on YouTube, may be free. Streaming services often offer free trials, so keep an eye out for promotions. For consistent access, though, a paid subscription is usually the way to go.How can I watch NFL games internationally?
International fans can use NFL Game Pass International for live and on-demand games. Local broadcasters in your country may also air games, so check local listings. For 2025 international games, most are on NFL Network, except the Brazil game, which is on YouTube/YouTube TV.What are the best streaming services for NFL fans?
Your best bet depends on your preferences. YouTube TV and Fubo are top picks for their wide channel lineups, covering CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN. NFL+ is ideal for mobile viewing and NFL Network content. Paramount+ and Peacock are great for CBS and NBC games, respectively. Keep an eye out for the new Fox One and ESPN streaming services for additional options.
FAQs
1. When does the 2025 NFL season start?
The season kicks off on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with the Dallas Cowboys facing the Philadelphia Eagles on NBC at 8:20 p.m. ET.
2. Where can I watch the Super Bowl in 2025?
Super Bowl LX will air on NBC on February 8, 2026, from Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
3. Are there any new streaming services for NFL games in 2025?
Yes, Fox One and ESPN are launching streaming services that will cover all their respective NFL games. Check Fox One Streaming and ESPN Streaming for updates.
4. Can I watch NFL games on my mobile device?
Yes! Services like NFL+, YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Paramount+, and Peacock offer mobile apps for watching games on your smartphone or tablet.
5. How can I watch the international games?
Most international games (London, Berlin, Madrid, Dublin) are on NFL Network, while the São Paulo, Brazil game is streamed on YouTube and YouTube TV. Visit NFL International Games for more details.
Conclusion
Watching the NFL in 2025 is easier than ever, with options for every type of fan. Whether you’re glued to your TV for Sunday afternoon games or streaming on your phone during a commute, there’s a way to catch every moment. Plan ahead for special games like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and international matchups, and make sure you’ve got the right subscriptions to cover all the action. From the season opener to the Super Bowl, get ready to cheer your team to victory. Go team!
Key Citations
- How to watch the NFL in 2025: Full guide to streaming, cable and TV schedule
- NFL on CBS Schedule: How to watch live football games
- Fox One Streaming Service Announcement
- ESPN Streaming Service Details
- NFL International Games 2025 Season Schedule