NFL Films has lent never-before-seen footage to a new documentary series that is sure to stir deep sports memories in all football fans of a certain age. AMC will present the limited series “Rise of the 49ers” starting at 9 p.m. ET on Sunday, Feb. 1. Episodes will feature contributions from legendary San Francisco 49ers players, and while there are multiple ways to watch, our favorite method is with a subscription to AMC+.

How to watch ‘Rise of the 49ers’

• When: Premieres on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 9 p.m. ET
• TV: AMC
• Stream: Watch with a subscription to AMC+.
• From anywhere: Watch with a subscription to a VPN.

Everything you need to know about ‘Rise of the 49ers’

What is the episode schedule of ‘Rise of the 49ers’?

The first two episodes of “Rise of the 49ers” will premiere on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 9 p.m. ET on AMC and AMC+. The remaining two episodes will be available at 9 p.m. ET on Monday, Feb. 2.

Why do we recommend watching ‘Rise of the 49ers’ on AMC+?

AMC+ is the best way to watch “Rise of the 49ers,” mostly because it’s the most cost-effective way to stream. The service has plans starting at just $7 per month, and includes a free trial of seven days for new customers as well. Once you’re subscribed, you can watch the entire AMC+ library, content from Shudder, Sundance Now, and more.

Even Sling TV’s Passes will require the viewer to spend more than they’d have to with an AMC+ subscription to watch “Rise of the 49ers,” and the service has a great selection of other on-demand content to enjoy. Sign up now and start streaming!

7-Day Trial

amc+ via amazon.com

AMC+

AMC+ is a premium subscription streaming bundle owned by AMC Networks. It offers curated access to award-winning originals, indie films, and prestige television. Launched in June 2020, the service combines content from AMC with flagship brands such as BBC America, IFC, Sundance TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, and IFC Films Unlimited, delivering a rich library of exclusive programming and early episode access.

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AMC+ features exclusive original series like “Gangs of London,” “Ragdoll,” “Firebite,” “Anne Boleyn,” and “Kin,” along with critically acclaimed films and simulcasted favorites such as those from The Walking Dead universe. The service supports up to five simultaneous streams and includes access to six live channels — including AMC, BBC America, and The Walking Dead Channel — alongside on-demand content. It also allows for offline downloads for ad-free subscribers.

The service is available directly via amcplus.com or the AMC+ app on platforms such as Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, iOS, Android, and smart TVs. It’s also accessible through Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video Channels, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, Dish, and YouTube TV. However, free trial eligibility and app access may vary depending on the provider. Viewers can sign up for a 7-day free trial when subscribing directly through AMC+ or its app, though eligibility may vary depending on the platform.

With its depth of high-quality content, flexible pricing, and seamless streaming capabilities, AMC+ remains a top-tier choice for horror fans, prestige dramas, indie films, and compelling originals.

7-Day Trial

$7.99+ / month

amc+ via amazon.com

Can you watch ‘Rise of the 49ers’ for free?

AMC+ comes with a free trial, as mentioned, but there are services that include the AMC linear channel that also offer free viewing periods.

DIRECTV’s MyEntertainment plan includes AMC, which costs $35 per month and includes AMC, has a free trial of five days for new customers who receive their plan through their own streaming device.

YouTube TV includes a trial between two and 21 days, depending on what time of month you subscribe and other factors. After the trial, its core plan costs $83 per month.

What are all the services you can use to watch ‘Rise of the 49ers’?

DIRECTV, Philo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV all include AMC. Philo costs $33 per month, and Sling charges $5 per day or $10 for three days to access AMC with a Pass to Sling Orange.

Watch a trailer for ‘Rise of the 49ers’

What is ‘Rise of the 49ers’ about?

“Rise of the 49ers” centers on the cinematic, iconic rise of the San Francisco 49ers in the 1980s and early 1990s. Relive the excellence of the “Gold Rush” era of the NFL, when the 49ers won five Super Bowls and transformed their franchise into one of the most recognized brands in all of sports.

A host of gridiron greats have contributed to the series, including Eddie DeBartolo Jr., Ronnie Lott, Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Steve Young. Tom Brady will also offer on-camera contributions in each episode, and no NFL fan will want to miss the series.

Rise of the 49ers

February 1, 2026

Using rare and never-before-seen footage, as well as one-on-one interviews, discover how the San Francisco 49ers rose from an also-ran into pro football’s most glamorous franchise during the ’80s and early ’90s.