Stream NFL Games Without Cable and Save Minimal Money

This NFL season, sports enthusiasts can finally watch games without traditional cable, but the potential savings are modest.

For the first time, avid NFL fans can view all in-market games on TV without subscribing to a cable package, thanks to standalone apps from networks like ESPN and Fox.

Fans who have long anticipated watching their favorite teams without the cost of cable may find themselves surprised at how expensive streaming services have become.

According to an analysis by Robert Fishman from MoffettNathanson, adopting a streaming-only approach to watch all professional football can be pricey, saving just about $1.03 monthly if you choose an a la carte streaming setup.

Subscription Breakdown for NFL Streaming

To catch every in-market Sunday game, fans would need Paramount+ for CBS and Fox One, while Peacock would cover NBC's Sunday Night Football. ESPN's app streams Monday Night Football, and Amazon Prime Video streams most Thursday matchups, except for the kickoff and few holiday games.

The combined cost of these five streaming services is $77.95 each month, slightly under the $78.98 expense of obtaining DirecTV's sports plan plus Prime Video.

In December, dedicated viewers paying for Netflix could incur an extra $8 to watch games exclusive to this platform.

Other Streaming Options and Additional Costs

Six other games this season will be on NFL Network. Access is available through DirecTV's MySports or YouTube TV, or individually via NFL+ at $7 monthly.

Uncompromising fans who aim to see every play, including those out of the local market, must invest in YouTube's NFL Sunday Ticket at $85 monthly. This doesn't include the digital-only games present on Prime Video or Netflix.

For casual viewers, the costs might seem steep. Nevertheless, ardent football followers are likely to pay these prices for uninterrupted game coverage.

"Football is America's Pastime"

Despite varying broadcast platforms and times, American viewers' commitment to football remains unwavering, as Fishman notes: "No matter when or where the games are aired, America is tuned in."