Football fans nationwide consistently ask what stations show NFL games, especially as broadcasting evolves. In 2026, catching every thrilling touchdown and defensive stop requires knowing your options, from traditional networks to modern streaming platforms. This comprehensive guide helps you navigate the complex landscape of NFL game broadcasts. We cover major networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN, which remain cornerstone broadcasters for the league. We also delve into the expanding world of streaming, including services like Peacock, Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, and the NFL's own streaming offerings. Understanding regional blackouts and national game schedules is key for an uninterrupted viewing experience. Whether you prefer the classic television experience or the flexibility of mobile streaming, finding what stations show NFL games is easier with the right information. This guide provides essential details for USA fans.
What are the main stations that show NFL games?
The primary stations for NFL games include CBS and FOX for Sunday afternoon regional broadcasts, NBC for Sunday Night Football, and ESPN for Monday Night Football. Amazon Prime Video is also a key platform for Thursday Night Football, defining what stations show NFL games across the week.
Can I watch NFL games on my phone or tablet?
Yes, you can watch NFL games on your phone or tablet. The NFL+ subscription service allows live local and prime-time games on mobile devices. Additionally, many streaming services like Peacock, Paramount+, and live TV streaming apps offer mobile access to their respective NFL broadcasts.
Do I need a cable subscription to watch all NFL games?
No, you do not need a traditional cable subscription to watch all NFL games. A mix of streaming services (Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount+), over-the-air antennas for local channels, and live TV streaming services can provide comprehensive coverage of what stations show NFL games.
How do I watch out-of-market NFL games?
To watch out-of-market NFL games, the NFL Sunday Ticket is your best option. This subscription service, currently available through YouTube TV, provides access to all Sunday afternoon games not broadcast on your local CBS or FOX affiliates, ensuring you can follow your favorite team anywhere.
Are preseason NFL games available on specific stations?
Preseason NFL games are often broadcast on local network affiliates (CBS, FOX, NBC) depending on the team and market, and some are nationally televised on ESPN or NFL Network. NFL+ provides live out-of-market preseason games on mobile devices, helping you find what stations show NFL games before the regular season.
For football enthusiasts across the United States, knowing what stations show NFL games is vital for enjoying the gridiron action. In 2026, the landscape for watching professional football involves a mix of traditional television and cutting-edge streaming services. This guide helps you understand where and how to catch every thrilling moment, ensuring you never miss a play.
When it comes to local NFL games, network affiliates remain your primary destination. CBS and FOX stations in your specific market typically broadcast games featuring teams relevant to your region. These channels are crucial for following your favorite local squad or key divisional matchups each Sunday afternoon.
National broadcasts of NFL games often take center stage on specific nights. NBC's Sunday Night Football is a prime-time staple, delivering high-profile matchups to a broad audience. ESPN continues its long-standing tradition of Monday Night Football, offering another exciting prime-time event for fans.
Streaming has significantly changed how many fans watch NFL games. Services like Peacock stream Sunday Night Football live, while Paramount+ offers access to CBS's AFC games. Amazon Prime Video has become the exclusive home for most Thursday Night Football matchups, a major shift in viewing habits.
For those eager to watch out-of-market games, the NFL Sunday Ticket provides a comprehensive solution. This premium subscription service allows you to catch games not shown on your local CBS or FOX affiliates. It's an essential tool for dedicated fans of teams outside their broadcast area, clarifying what stations show NFL games beyond your region.
NFL+ offers another valuable streaming option, particularly for mobile viewing. This service provides live local and prime-time games on phones and tablets. It also includes live out-of-market preseason games and game replays, enhancing the overall fan experience for what stations show NFL games on the go.
Understanding what stations show NFL games helps you plan your football Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays. With options spanning traditional TV and various streaming platforms, enjoying every play is more accessible than ever. Stay informed to catch all the hard-hitting action and never miss a touchdown.
| Broadcast Type | Primary Networks/Platforms | Typical Game Slots | Key Information about what stations show NFL games |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Sunday Games (AFC) | CBS, Paramount+ | Sunday afternoons (1:00 PM ET, 4:05 PM ET) | Broadcasts games with AFC teams, often regionally. Paramount+ streams CBS content. |
| Local Sunday Games (NFC) | FOX, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV | Sunday afternoons (1:00 PM ET, 4:25 PM ET) | Broadcasts games with NFC teams, often regionally. Live TV streaming services carry FOX. |
| Sunday Night Football | NBC, Peacock | Sunday evenings (8:20 PM ET) | National prime-time matchup. Peacock Premium offers live streaming. |
| Monday Night Football | ESPN, ESPN+ | Monday evenings (8:15 PM ET) | National prime-time matchup. ESPN+ may offer simulcasts or alternative broadcasts. |
| Thursday Night Football | Amazon Prime Video | Thursday evenings (8:15 PM ET) | Exclusive streaming home for most TNF games. Some local over-the-air broadcasts available. |
| NFL Sunday Ticket | (Platform varies by year, e.g., YouTube TV) | All Sunday afternoon out-of-market games | Subscription service for games not shown on your local CBS/FOX. |
| NFL+ | NFL App (Mobile/Tablet) | Live local and prime-time games on mobile, game replays, preseason out-of-market | Subscription for mobile-focused viewing and replays. |
What Others Are Asking? Finding What Stations Show NFL Games
What channels broadcast NFL games live in 2026?
Live NFL games are primarily broadcast on major networks like CBS, FOX, and NBC for Sunday afternoon and evening matchups. ESPN carries Monday Night Football, while Amazon Prime Video is the exclusive home for most Thursday Night Football games. These are key for what stations show NFL games.
Can I stream NFL games without cable in 2026?
Absolutely, streaming NFL games without cable is very common. Services like Peacock (for NBC games), Paramount+ (for CBS games), and Amazon Prime Video (for Thursday Night Football) offer direct access. Live TV streaming platforms such as YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV also include major network channels showing NFL games.
Are local NFL games available on streaming services?
Yes, local NFL games shown on CBS and FOX are available via streaming. You can access them through network-specific streaming apps like Paramount+ for CBS or through live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV (depending on your market and package). NFL+ also offers local games on mobile devices.
Which networks carry Thursday Night Football?
In 2026, Amazon Prime Video is the primary exclusive platform for most Thursday Night Football games. However, local markets of the participating teams will often have the game simulcast on an over-the-air station, ensuring fans can still find what stations show NFL games locally.
How do I watch Monday Night Football?
Monday Night Football is broadcast live on ESPN, a long-standing tradition. You can watch it through your cable subscription, or via live TV streaming services that include ESPN, like Sling TV, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV. ESPN+ may offer simulcasts or alternative broadcasts as well.
Where can I find Sunday Night Football?
Sunday Night Football, a premier weekly matchup, airs on NBC. You can watch it on your local NBC affiliate through traditional television. For streaming options, Peacock Premium offers live access to all Sunday Night Football games, making it easy to find what stations show NFL games on Sunday evening.
What is NFL Sunday Ticket and where can I get it?
NFL Sunday Ticket is a premium subscription service allowing you to watch out-of-market Sunday afternoon games. This means you can view any game not broadcast on your local CBS or FOX affiliates. As of 2026, NFL Sunday Ticket is primarily available through YouTube TV in the US.
Major networks (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN) still broadcast many NFL games. Streaming services like Peacock, Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, and NFL+ are crucial. Local games often air on CBS and FOX, depending on your market. Thursday Night Football is primarily on Amazon Prime Video. Sunday Night Football is on NBC and Peacock. Monday Night Football is on ESPN and ESPN+. NFL Sunday Ticket is a premium option for out-of-market games.