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Everything you need to know to watch the 2026-27 NFL season

Everything you need to know to watch the 2026-27 NFL season

See which channels and streamers carry games, the cheapest way to watch, and more.

Known for breaking major streaming stories, he’s covered everything from Netflix policy shifts to Peacock’s ad-tier changes. A sci-fi fan and Toshiba Fire TV user, he brings sharp analysis and a love for the genre to his reporting.

It’s almost time to get back to football Sundays, NFL fans. The days are ticking down to the start of the 2026-27 NFL season, which begins on Wednesday – yes, Wednesday – Sept. 9 with a Super Bowl rematch of the New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks on NBC.

NFL games will be spread across multiple streaming services and TV channels once again in 2026, but The Streamable is here to head off any consternation over where your favorite team is playing in a given week. Find out everything you need to know about watching the 2026-27 NFL season below!

Everything you need to know to watch the 2026-27 NFL season

Which TV channels carry NFL games in 2026-27?

NFL games will appear on broadcast and cable channels in the 2026-27 season. On the broadcast side, CBS and Fox will once again split the league’s Sunday afternoon slate, and NBC will be the home of “Sunday Night Football.” ABC will simulcast 10 “Monday Night Football” games with ESPN in 2026-27, as well.

ESPN will be the cable home of “MNF” once again this season, and NFL Network will also broadcast several of the league’s international games. Although game inventory has moved around a bit this season, there are fortunately no new TV networks that viewers will need to remember to watch NFL games this year; all channels that will host games were also NFL broadcast partners last year.

DIRECTV Fubo Hulu Sling TV YouTube TV
Free Trial Free Trial Free 3-Day Trial Save with Sling Free Trial
$20.99 $9.99 $28.99 $19.99 $29.99 $45.99 $45.99 $64.99
ABC + $24 + $59 + $61 - ✓ - ✓ ✓
CBS + $24 + $59 + $61 - - - - ✓
ESPN + $24 + $59 + $61 ✓ - ✓ - ✓
Fox + $19 + $59 + $61 - ✓ - ✓ ✓
NBC + $19 + $11 + $61 - ✓ - ✓ ✓
NFL Network + $15 + $59 + $61 - ✓ - ✓ ✓

Which streaming services will carry NFL games in 2026-27?

The NFL has spent the past few years slowly building a number of streaming-exclusive games into its schedule. This year, Prime Video, Peacock, and Netflix will all carry NFL games that can’t be watched anywhere else – at least not by national audiences.

Prime Video returns as the host of the NFL’s “Thursday Night Football” package, with games appearing on the streamer throughout the regular season. Netflix will offer a Week 1 game between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers on Sept. 10, as well as contests between the Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams on Thanksgiving Eve, a Christmas Day doubleheader, and a Week 1 game. Peacock will get an exclusive game in Week 17, with opponents to be determined.

Paramount+ does not have any exclusive NFL games to its name this season, but it will continue to stream live games appearing on CBS in subscribers’ local markets throughout the year. Viewers can stream live, in-market NFL games on CBS with both Paramount+ plans.

Fox One will allow viewers to watch any live NFL games appearing on their local Fox station, as well as a host of other content from major Fox brands. The subscription starts at $20 per month, with bundle options available.

ESPN Unlimited offers all “Monday Night Football” games of the 2026-27 season, as well as any games appearing on NFL Network throughout the year. It costs $30 per month until Sept. 17, when the price rises to $32 per month. Bundle options are also available with this streamer.

Finally, NFL+ will carry all nationally broadcast NFL games of the season, regardless of channel or streaming platform. However, viewers will have to watch these games on their mobile device, as NFL+ will not let viewers stream them on smart TVs. An NFL+ subscription costs $7 per month.

  • NFL+

    NFL+ allows fans to watch live local and primetime games on mobile and tablet devices. And with an NFL+ Premium subscription, you can watch replays of every single game without ads, condensed game replays, and coaches film. The service also allows fans to choose their audio stream (home, away, and national calls). The Premium plan also includes NFL RedZone on TV.

    …

    The service also allows users to watch out-of-market preseason games on any device. Users can also access NFL library programming ad-free.

What is the schedule of streaming-exclusive NFL games in 2026-27?

Date Time (ET) Game Platform
Thursday, Sept. 10 8:35 p.m. San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams Netflix
Thursday, Sept. 17 8:15 p.m. Detroit Lions vs. Buffalo Bills Prime Video
Thursday, Sept. 24 8:15 p.m. Atlanta Falcons vs. Green Bay Packers Prime Video
Thursday, Oct. 1 8:15 p.m. Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns Prime Video
Thursday, Oct. 8 8:15 p.m. Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Dallas Cowboys Prime Video
Thursday, Oct. 15 8:15 p.m. Seattle Seahawks vs. Denver Broncos Prime Video
Thursday, Oct. 22 8:15 p.m. New England Patriots vs. Chicago Bears Prime Video
Thursday, Oct. 29 8:15 p.m. Carolina Panthers vs. Green Bay Packers Prime Video
Thursday, Nov. 5 8:15 p.m. Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Baltimore Ravens Prime Video
Thursday, Nov. 12 8:15 p.m. Washington Commanders vs. New York Giants Prime Video
Thursday, Nov. 19 8:15 p.m. Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans Prime Video
Wednesday, Nov. 25 8 p.m. Green Bay Packers vs. Los Angeles Rams Netflix
Friday, Nov. 27 3 p.m. Denver Broncos vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Prime Video
Thursday, Dec. 3 8:15 p.m. Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Rams Prime Video
Thursday, Dec. 10 8:15 p.m. Minnesota Vikings vs. New England Patriots Prime Video
Thursday, Dec. 17 8:15 p.m. San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Chargers Prime Video
Thursday, Dec. 24 8:15 p.m. Houston Texans vs. Philadelphia Eagles Prime Video
Friday, Dec. 25 1 p.m. Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears Netflix
Friday, Dec. 25 4:30 p.m. Denver Broncos vs. Buffalo Bills Netflix
Thursday, Dec. 31 8:15 p.m. Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals Prime Video
Saturday, Jan. 2, 2027 8 p.m. TBD vs. TBD Peacock
Saturday, Jan. 9, 2027 8 p.m. TBD vs. TBD Netflix

Which live TV streaming services are best for watching NFL games in 2026-27?

DIRECTV

DIRECTV is one of the top streamers you can use to watch NFL games in 2026-27. It offers local broadcast channels in all of its Signature packages, starting with the ENTERTAINMENT plan at $90 per month. ESPN is also included in the ENTERTAINMENT plan, as is an ESPN Unlimited subscription. NFL Network is included in the CHOICE package and above, or in the DIRECTV Sports add-on pack for ENTERTAINMENT subscribers.

Viewers can also subscribe to the DIRECTV MySports Genre Pack to watch this NFL season. With 20+ sports channels, including ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, this package is ideal for fans who prefer to watch mostly or only sports. It costs $65 per month and also includes ESPN Unlimited.

DIRECTV

DIRECTV is one of The Streamable’s top choices for the best live TV streaming service overall in 2026, especially for users who want the most channels or want to watch the most live sports. With an unbeatable lineup of local, news, sports, and entertainment channels, three main signature packages, an unlimited DVR, and 20 simultaneous streams at home, DIRECTV remains a premier choice for any cord-cutter.

…

Following the launch of several genre-specific Genre Packs, there are now even more flexible ways to watch DIRECTV. Options like MySports, MyEntertainment, MyNews, and MiEspañol provide affordable, targeted alternatives to larger bundles, allowing viewers to subscribe to a specific set of channels that match their interests without the cost of a full lineup.

DIRECTV starts at $59.99 / month for its Entertainment package. You can access your local regional sports network with the Choice package, which begins at $64.99 / month, as well as the MySports Pack $44.99 / month. At the top end, they also have an Ultimate ($94.99) for 218 channels. Slimmer Genre Packs for entertainment and news are MyEntertainment for $42.99 / month and MyNews $39.99 / month. There is no contract or broadcast TV fees with this DIRECTV streaming option.

The service was previously called DIRECTV STREAM, preceded by AT&T TV.

How much does DIRECTV cost in 2026?

DIRECTV now offers flexible entry points starting at $19.99/month for the MyKids Genre Pack, while full Signature Packages like Entertainment start at $84.99/month. See the full list: DIRECTV Pricing & Plans

Does DIRECTV have a free trial?

Yes, DIRECTV offers a 5-Day Free Trial for new customers, which includes access to your chosen package and any added Genre Packs.

What are DIRECTV Genre Packs?

Genre Packs are targeted, contract-free plans introduced in 2025. They include MySports ($69.99/mo), MyEntertainment ($34.99/mo), MyNews ($39.99/mo), and MiEspañol ($34.99/mo), often bundling apps like Max, Disney+, or Hulu.

How many channels does DIRECTV have?

The channel count varies by plan: the Entertainment package starts with 90+ channels, while the Premier package offers over 185+ channels. See the full list: DIRECTV Channels.

How many streams are allowed at once on DIRECTV?

DIRECTV allows for unlimited simultaneous streams on your home network and up to 3 streams while on the go. See more details: DIRECTV Simultaneous Streams

Does DIRECTV include local channels?

Yes, local affiliates like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are included in all Signature Packages and the MySports Genre Pack in most markets. See the full list: DIRECTV Local Channels.

Does DIRECTV have live sports?

DIRECTV is a leader in sports, offering ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, and MLB Network, plus Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in the Choice plan and above. See the full list: DIRECTV Sports Channels.

Does DIRECTV offer premium channels?

Yes, you can add Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax. Many 2026 Genre Packs now include these services as part of the base price. See the full list: DIRECTV Premium Channels.

Does DIRECTV offer 4K streaming?

DIRECTV provides dedicated 4K channels (104-106) for live sports and special events at no extra cost, provided you have a compatible 4K device.

Does DIRECTV have a DVR?

Every DIRECTV plan includes Unlimited Cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record and save shows for up to 9 months.

Is there a Regional Sports Network (RSN) fee on DIRECTV?

An RSN fee of up to $15.99/month applies to the Choice package and above, as these plans include local sports coverage. This fee is determined by your zip code and the number of Regional Sports Networks available in your area.

Can I avoid the RSN fee on DIRECTV?

Yes. To avoid the RSN fee, you can subscribe to the Entertainment package or the MySports Genre Pack ($69.99/mo), which bundles sports content without a separate itemized RSN charge. See the breakdown: DIRECTV RSN Fees & Locations.

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Fubo

Fubo has ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC, plus ESPN and NFL Network in both its Pro and Elite packages. These plans cost $89 and $99 per month before taxes and fees, respectively, and each comes with over 200 channels total. Fubo also offers a sports-and-news-only channel package called Fubo Sports for $65 per month, but this plan does not carry NBC in any American markets as of the 2026-27 NFL season.

Fubo

Fubo is a live TV streaming service offering a robust lineup of approximately 150 premier channels, with plans starting at $63.99 per month. This entry-level package provides access to local broadcast affiliates 18 of the leading 35 cable channels channels, and valuable regional sports networks (RSNs).

…

For many other sports enthusiasts, particularly those who prioritize access to local sports broadcasts, Fubo is a compelling choice in our view. Featuring FanDuel Sports RSNs in its channel lineup, Fubo stands out as the most budget-friendly option for RSN access across numerous markets, including Altitude, AT&T Sports, Fox Sports, Marquee, MSG, NBC Sports, and NESN. (Explore the comprehensive list of Fubo’s sports channels.) Fubo recently launched an add-on to their sports package, allowing subscribers access to local RSNs as well.

In September 2025, Fubo also launched its Sports package for $45.99 per month, featuring a variety of sports-oriented channels including ABC, CBS and FOX affiliates (in select markets) as well as ACC Network, Big 10 Network, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, ESPNU, Fox News, FS1, FS2, Fubo Sports Network, ION, NFL Network, SEC Network and Tennis Channel.

Fubo further enriches its sports offerings by including MLB Network, NBA TV, NFL Network, NFL RedZone , NHL Network and beIN Sports (a channel not commonly found on competing services). For expanded soccer coverage, you can opt for Fox Soccer Plus via the International Sports Plus add-on for an additional $7/month.

Additionally, you have the option to enhance your channel variety with the Fubo Extra ($8), which incorporates approximately ~38 channels more channels, featuring popular selections like GSN.


Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV has just one channel package, but fortunately for NFL fans, it includes ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. Even better, all Hulu + Live TV plans starting at $90 per month include Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select, and ESPN Unlimited through the ESPN app.

Hulu Live TV

Hulu Live TV is a live TV streaming service with more than 70 channels for $89.99 per month. Hulu + Live TV base plan includes local channels 32 of the top 35 cable channels, and regional sports networks (RSNs). Subscribers get free access to Disney+ and ESPN Select at no extra charge.

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Where it really separates itself is value. Your subscription doesn’t just cover live TV — it also includes full access to Hulu’s on-demand library, plus bundled subscriptions to Disney+ and ESPN Select content at no extra cost. That means you’re getting everything from next-day network TV episodes and Hulu Originals, to Marvel, Star Wars, and live sports content all in one place without juggling multiple bills.

For sports fans, Hulu + Live TV also includes regional sports networks (RSNs) in select areas, a feature many competing services have dropped. That can be a big deal if you’re trying to follow local MLB, NBA, or NHL teams.

The DVR experience is another strong point. Subscribers get unlimited cloud DVR storage and the ability to fast-forward through commercials on recorded content — a feature that used to cost extra but is now standard. It’s designed to feel closer to a traditional cable DVR, just without the box.

If you want to customize further, several add-ons are available. You can upgrade to premium channels like HBO, Showtime, or Starz, add an unlimited streams option for households with lots of viewers, or go ad-free on Hulu’s on-demand content (live TV will still include ads).

Overall, Hulu + Live TV is less about being the cheapest option and more about being the most comprehensive. It’s built for people who want live TV, on-demand shows, and bundled streaming services all under one roof — without having to piece everything together themselves.


Sling TV

Sling TV will carry some, but not all, of the 2026-27 NFL slate. The streamer doesn’t offer CBS in any American market, a definite blow to its overall NFL inventory. However, viewers can watch ABC, Fox, and NBC with Sling in a handful of American media markets, using either the Blue package (starting at $46 per month) or the Select package ($20 per month).

NFL Network is also found in the Sling Blue plan, but customers who want ESPN will find it in Sling Orange. Fans can purchase short-term subscriptions to Sling Orange starting at just $5 per day with Passes, and Sling Orange can also be combined with Sling Blue for the most possible NFL action on the Sling platform.

Sling TV

Sling TV is The Streamable’s choice for cord-cutters on a budget. Sling is a live TV streaming service with multiple channel packages. The $45.99/month Sling Orange plan offers about 30 channels, including Disney Channel and ESPN. The $45.99/month Sling Blue plan offers about 40 channels, including ABC, Fox, and NBC in major markets.

You can combine Orange+Blue for a total of $60.99 / month. Sling also offers many channel add-on packages starting at $6/month.


YouTube TV

YouTube TV is also a good choice to watch the 2026-27 NFL season. The streamer has ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network in both its core package ($83 per month) and the Sports Genre Plan (normally $65 per month). Either allows viewers to use awesome YouTube TV features like multiview and unlimited Cloud DVR.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service with more than 60 channels for $82.99/month. This plan includes local channels 32 of the top 35 cable channels, and regional sports networks (RSNs) in select markets. The base plan includes more than 100 live channels, including major broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, as well as popular cable channels such as ESPN, CNN, FX, USA Network, and TNT. Local channels are included in most markets, making YouTube TV a full replacement for traditional cable for many viewers.

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Sports are a major focus for YouTube TV, with access to national and regional coverage, league networks, and marquee events. The service also serves as the exclusive home of NFL Sunday Ticket, available as an add-on, giving fans access to out-of-market Sunday afternoon games. YouTube TV also offers a smaller sports plan, allowing subscribers access to 30+ sports-oriented channels, including local networks in select markets.

YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage at no extra cost, allowing subscribers to record as many shows as they want and keep recordings for up to nine months. The service is available across a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming players, mobile devices, and web browsers. New subscribers can typically start with a free trial, though the trial length may vary by promotion.

With its broad channel lineup, strong sports offerings, unlimited DVR, and wide device support, YouTube TV remains one of the most comprehensive live TV streaming services for viewers who want a traditional TV experience without a cable contract.

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New customers can save $15 per month for 5 months.

Do you need a live TV streamer to watch NFL games in 2026-27?

No, you can watch the 2026-27 NFL season solely with on-demand streaming services and direct-to-consumer platforms this season. It will take some stacking, however, and the cost may leave some fans searching for other solutions.

The stack of streamers needed to watch the 2026-27 NFL season starts with the ESPN Unlimited and Fox One bundle. This combo costs $40 per month and unlocks all “MNF” games, plus Sunday afternoon games from Fox.

Next, viewers will need a Paramount+ Essential subscription for $9 per month to watch Sunday afternoon NFL games on CBS, plus Peacock Premium for $ 13 per month to watch “Sunday Night Football.” Add in a Prime Video subscription at $9 per month to stream “TNF,” and the only other platform you’ll need is Netflix for its exclusive games.

So, let’s take stock. To watch the 2026-27 NFL season without a live TV streamer, you’ll need ESPN, Fox One, Netflix, Paramount+, Peacock, and Prime Video. The minimum cost per month for these streamers is $80, and that’s just for ad-supported plans. It’s certainly possible to watch all NFL games airing in your market without a live TV streamer in 2026-27, but it’s not as cheap as it used to be.

Which NFL games can you watch with an antenna in 2026-27?

Any NFL games appearing on ABC, CBS, Fox, or NBC in your local market can be watched with an antenna. Over-the-air (OTA) antennas pick up broadcast channels from as far away as 100 miles (depending on the device), allowing viewers to watch broadcast channels with no monthly subscription fees involved. Just plug it into your TV, scan for channels, and start watching!

Shop antennas from top retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart below:

How to watch out-of-market NFL games in 2026-27

NFL Sunday Ticket is the out-of-market home for NFL games in 2026-27. Viewers can subscribe to the service exclusively through YouTube TV, either by bundling with a YouTube TV channel package or on its own through YouTube TV Primetime Channels. To learn more about NFL Sunday Ticket’s pricing for the 2026-27 season, click here.

Where can you watch NFL games in 4K in 2026-27?

Most NFL games are still broadcast in HD resolution, but some games on ESPN, Fox, and NBC have been offered in 4K in the past. Those channels could opt to broadcast in 4K again in 2026, and viewers can watch any games available in 4K with DIRECTV and Sling TV at no extra charge. Fubo reserves 4K sporting events for its Elite plan, and YouTube TV forces customers to purchase the 4K Plus add-on for an additional $10 per month to watch 4K content. Hulu + Live TV does not offer any 4K NFL games.

What’s the cheapest way to watch NFL games in 2026-27?

The cheapest way to watch the 2026-27 NFL season without streaming-exclusive games is the YouTube TV Sports Genre Plan. The package normally costs $65 per month, but new customers can get their first 12 months of service for $55 each with a current deal. It will offer all NFL games on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network.

Unfortunately, this plan won’t include any streaming-exclusive games on Netflix, Peacock, and Prime Video. Adding those services to YouTube TV’s Sports Genre Plan would cost $31 per month more, adding up to $86 per month total. At that price, stacking ESPN, Fox One, Netflix, Paramount+, Peacock, and Prime Video at $80 per month is actually the cheapest option.

Which streamers allow you to add NFL RedZone in 2026-27?

The NFL RedZone channel will once again present seven hours of whip-around football action each Sunday afternoon of the 2026 NFL regular season. Scott Hanson will host the show, and viewers will see the very best on-field action at any given moment.

Most live TV streamers offer NFL RedZone in some form or other, but how much does it cost to add to your channel package? Check out the table below for more details.

Streaming Service Add-on needed for NFL RedZone Price of add-on
DIRECTV Sports Add-on (Signature package)
- MySports Extra mini pack (MySports Genre Pack)
$15 per month (Sports Pack)
-$14 per month (MySports Etxra)
Fubo Sports Plus with NFL RedZone $11 per month
Hulu + Live TV Sports Add-on $10 per month
Sling TV Sports Extra (requires Sling Blue) $11 per month
YouTube TV Sports Plus $11 per month
ESPN Unlimited Bundle with NFL+ Premium $42 per month for bundle

Is there any other way to watch NFL games on Netflix, other streamers?

The only way to watch games appearing on Netflix, Paramount+, or Peacock in 2026-27 without having subscriptions to those services is if you live in the home market of one of the two teams playing. Broadcasting regulations stipulate that streaming-only games be played on local broadcast channels in the home markets of the participating teams. If you do not live in the market of either team playing, however, you will have to be subscribed to Netflix, Peacock, or Prime Video to watch streaming-only games played on those services. 

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David Satin has been a dedicated News Writer at The Streamable since 2022, covering a wide range of stories in the entertainment and streaming industries. With years of experience writing online, David previously worked as a list writer for Screen Rant, where he gained recognition for his extensive coverage of sci-fi and fantasy genres. His ability to break and analyze major stories has made him a trusted voice in the streaming world. Over the course of his career, Satin has become an integral part of The Streamable team, contributing to some of the most impactful stories in the industry.

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