NFL Network requires a cable or streaming subscription — you cannot buy it standalone
NFL Network is a cable channel owned by the National Football League. You cannot purchase it directly from the NFL or through a standalone app. Instead, you get access through a pay-TV provider: either a traditional cable company, a live TV streaming service, or in some cases through the NFL's own streaming app if you already subscribe elsewhere.
The channel shows live games, analysis shows, documentaries, and replays. Which games air on NFL Network depends on the NFL's broadcast schedule for that season. Some Thursday night games, select playoff games, and preseason games appear there, but most regular season games air on CBS, Fox, NBC, or ESPN instead.
Your cost depends entirely on which provider you choose. A cable subscription that includes NFL Network might run $80 to $150 per month depending on your location and package. A live TV streaming service that carries it typically costs $55 to $75 per month. If you already pay for one of these services, NFL Network is usually included at no extra charge.
Key Takeaways
- NFL Network is included with most cable TV packages and major live TV streaming services, but you must subscribe to one of those services first.
- Cable companies like Comcast, Charter, and AT&T include NFL Network in mid-tier and higher packages, though availability varies by region.
- Live TV streaming services including YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV carry NFL Network, with costs ranging from $55 to $75 per month.
- The NFL+ app offers some live games and replays for a separate fee, but does not replace a cable or streaming subscription for full NFL Network access.
- You can watch NFL Network on your TV, phone, tablet, or computer depending on your provider's app and your subscription tier.
Cable TV providers that carry NFL Network
Most major cable companies include NFL Network in their standard or higher-tier packages. Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, and AT&T U-verse all carry it, though the exact package and price vary by region and what promotions are running. Smaller regional cable providers may or may not include it — call your provider directly to confirm.
Cable packages that include NFL Network typically start around $80 to $100 per month for the base tier that has it, though introductory rates are often lower for the first year. You will need a cable box or the provider's app to watch. Most cable companies let you stream NFL Network to your phone or tablet through their app if you log in with your account credentials.
The advantage of cable is that you get NFL Network bundled with hundreds of other channels, local channels, and often internet service. The disadvantage is that you are locked into a contract, the price usually goes up after the promotional period ends, and you have to deal with cable company customer service.
Live TV streaming services with NFL Network
YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV all carry NFL Network as part of their base package. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV cost around $75 per month and include 70 to 90 other channels. Sling TV is cheaper at around $40 to $55 per month but carries fewer channels overall.
These services let you stream on multiple devices at once (the number depends on the service), pause and rewind live TV, and record games to watch later. You can cancel anytime without a contract. The trade-off is that the channel lineup is smaller than cable, and the streaming quality depends on your internet speed.
To watch NFL Network through one of these services, download their app on your TV, phone, or computer, sign in with your account, and select the channel. Most services offer a trial period before you pay, though the length varies.
NFL+ and other NFL-owned streaming options
The NFL operates NFL+, a streaming service separate from NFL Network. NFL+ costs around $7 per month or $80 per year and includes some live games, replays, and original shows. However, NFL+ does not include live access to NFL Network itself — it is a different product with different content.
NFL+ is useful if you want to watch replays of games or catch some live games on your phone, but it does not replace a cable or streaming subscription if you want to watch NFL Network programming. Some games on NFL+ are blacked out in your local area depending on where you live and what network has the broadcast rights.
The NFL also offers NFL Sunday Ticket through YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels. Sunday Ticket is a separate subscription (around $300 to $500 per season) that shows out-of-market Sunday afternoon games. It does not include NFL Network either.
What devices can you watch on
If you subscribe through cable, you can watch on your TV using the cable box, or on your phone, tablet, or computer through the cable company's app. Comcast, Charter, and AT&T all have apps that let you log in and stream.
If you subscribe through a live TV streaming service, you can watch on any device that has the service's app: smart TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Chromecast, iPhones, iPads, Android phones, and computers. Most services let you stream on multiple devices at the same time, though the exact number depends on your plan.
NFL+ can be watched on phones, tablets, and computers, but not on most TV devices. Check the NFL+ website to see which devices are supported in your region.
Regional availability and blackout rules
NFL Network is available nationwide through cable and streaming services, but some games on the channel are subject to local blackout rules. If an NFL game is broadcast on a local or national network in your area, it may not air on NFL Network in your region at the same time, even if you subscribe.
Blackout rules are set by the NFL and vary by game. They exist to protect local broadcasters and encourage people to attend games in person. If a game is blacked out on NFL Network in your area, you may be able to watch it on the local or national network that has the rights, or you may have to wait for a replay.
Your cable or streaming provider cannot override blackout rules — they are enforced by the NFL itself. If you are unsure whether a specific game will be available in your area, check the NFL's official schedule or contact your provider.
Comparing cost and features across providers
| Provider Type | Typical Cost | NFL Network Included | Other Channels | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cable (Comcast, Charter, AT&T) | $80–$150/month | Yes, in mid-tier packages and up | 100+ channels, local channels | Usually 12–24 months |
| YouTube TV | ~$75/month | Yes | 70+ channels | None; cancel anytime |
| Hulu + Live TV | ~$75/month | Yes | 80+ channels | None; cancel anytime |
| Sling TV | $40–$55/month | Yes, in higher tier | 30–50 channels depending on package | None; cancel anytime |
| NFL+ | $7/month or $80/year | No; separate service | Replays, some live games, original shows | None; cancel anytime |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch NFL Network without cable or a streaming service?
No. NFL Network is not sold as a standalone subscription. You must subscribe to a cable company or a live TV streaming service that carries it. NFL+ is separate and does not include live NFL Network access.
Do I need NFL+ if I already have cable or streaming?
No. NFL+ is optional and separate from NFL Network. It offers replays and some live games, but most people who have cable or a streaming service with NFL Network do not need it. NFL+ is useful only if you want extra replays or games that air on NFL+.
Will I see every NFL game on NFL Network?
No. NFL Network carries some Thursday night games, select playoff games, and preseason games, but most regular season games air on CBS, Fox, NBC, or ESPN. Check the NFL's official schedule to see which games air on NFL Network each week.
Can I stream NFL Network on my phone with cable?
Yes, if your cable provider has an app. Comcast, Charter, and AT&T all offer apps that let you log in and stream NFL Network to your phone, tablet, or computer. You must be a cable subscriber to use the app.
What happens if a game is blacked out in my area?
You cannot watch it on NFL Network at the time it airs. You may be able to watch it on the local or national network that has the broadcast rights, or you can watch a replay later. Blackout rules are set by the NFL and your provider cannot override them.