How to Watch NFL Games This Season: A Cost Breakdown

Watching NFL games this season requires multiple streaming subscriptions. Here is a rundown of the platforms and their costs.

Netflix

Netflix will air five games, including Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas Day, and Week 18 matchups. Subscriptions are necessary for September, November, December, and January. A monthly Netflix plan ranges from $8.99 to $26.99.

Amazon Prime

From Week 2 through the Wild Card Round, Amazon Prime will broadcast games. The monthly fee is $14.99.

Standard Cable or Satellite

Subscribers will still receive games on Fox, CBS, NBC, and ESPN/ABC. For alternative options, cord-cutters might explore YouTube TV and other streaming bundles.

YouTube TV

YouTube offers a $64.99-per-month Sports Plan, which includes channels like ESPN, Fox, and local networks. New subscribers pay $49.99 for the first six months.

Bundling Options

You can combine Fox One and ESPN Unlimited for $39.99 monthly, with CBS games via Paramount+ at $8.99 and NBC games on Peacock for $12.99. These alternatives align with YouTube TV’s cost.

Fans will still need Netflix and Amazon Prime subscriptions separately.

Total Cost

On average, streaming all nationally televised games costs between $450 and $500. For non-national games, NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube costs $336 yearly, or $240 for newcomers.

“It’s becoming too expensive,” some fans lament as memes suggest an $800 total cost to watch NFL games.

International Viewers

In Canada, DAZN includes cable networks, allowing fans to watch games. But high costs at home remain a concern.

Rising Costs and Their Impact

Despite higher costs, NFL’s popularity persists. Yet, expensive viewing and more scheduled games might deter fans.

An increase in games throughout the week requires more subscriptions, challenging fans’ wallets.

The NFL’s pricing model and the growing number of streams may ultimately push fans towards cheaper entertainment options.