The Preseason NFL marks the official return of football excitement, giving fans a first glimpse of how teams are shaping up before the regular season kicks off. While these games don’t count toward the standings, they play a crucial role in evaluating new talent, testing strategies, and building momentum. Best of all, you don’t have to rely on pricey cable packages to catch the action. In fact, several free streaming options are available — perfect for fans who want to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Moreover, with technology making access to live sports easier than ever, it’s now completely possible to watch games from your smartphone, tablet, or smart TV — no matter where you are. Whether you’re following a favorite rookie or just missing football Sundays, these free platforms offer an excellent way to stay in the loop. Up next, check out five reliable and free ways to stream the NFL preseason from the comfort of your home.
Where to Watch the Preseason NFL for Free: 5 Streaming Options You Can Trust
1. NFL+ (Free Trial Option)
To begin with, NFL+ is the league’s official streaming service and a convenient way to catch preseason games — especially on mobile devices. Although it normally requires a subscription, NFL+ offers a 7-day free trial, which allows you to stream live games, replays, and highlights at no cost. Therefore, it’s an excellent option for fans who want full access without paying upfront.
- Access to replays and highlights helps you catch up anytime
- Official NFL content ensures high-quality streams and exclusive access
- Multi-device support allows watching on phones, tablets, and desktops
2. NBC (Over-the-Air Broadcast)
Next, NBC broadcasts select Preseason NFL games for free on local television across the United States. If you own an HD antenna or have access to basic TV channels, you can tune in easily. In addition, NBC allows live streaming through its website and official app, provided that you are within a supported region. As a result, it becomes a solid choice for viewers looking for high-quality, free coverage.
- Free access without subscription via antenna or basic TV packages
- Reliable broadcast quality with professional commentary
- Convenient streaming through NBC’s official app and website
3. CBS (Free Local Access)
Similarly, CBS offers preseason matchups regionally at no cost. Depending on your location, you can watch these games live via a digital antenna or stream them through the CBS app using a compatible TV provider. Moreover, CBS often covers games involving AFC teams, which makes it an ideal platform for fans who follow those franchises.
- Regional coverage with focus on AFC teams for dedicated fans
- Easy access through both antenna and streaming apps
- No subscription needed for local broadcasts
4. FOX (Live Preseason Coverage)
In the same way, FOX airs a variety of Preseason NFL games, particularly those featuring NFC teams. With access to a local FOX affiliate or a simple antenna setup, you can watch in HD for free. Additionally, FOX streams some games via its website and mobile app, depending on your geographic region. Consequently, it’s another dependable option for live preseason football.
- High-definition broadcasts for crisp game viewing
- NFC team-focused games attract many local fans
- Streaming flexibility with website and mobile app access
5. Yahoo Sports App
Finally, the Yahoo Sports app presents a simple and effective method to stream preseason games on mobile. Available on both iOS and Android, the app allows users to watch select games live based on their location. Furthermore, it doesn’t require a subscription, which makes it a hassle-free option for fans who prefer watching on the go.
- Free streaming with no subscription required
- Mobile-friendly app for watching anywhere
- Real-time updates and notifications for game highlights
FAQ
Which free app is best for watching the NFL preseason live?
If you want to stream games without paying, popular options include NFL+, NBC Sports, CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and Yahoo Sports. Each offers live preseason coverage depending on the game and your location.
Are these apps completely free to use?
Most of them let you watch select preseason games for free, especially local or nationally broadcast matchups. However, some features or full access may require a free account or a paid upgrade.
Can I watch every NFL preseason game on these free apps?
Not always. Availability can depend on broadcast rights and your region. Between these five apps, though, you can watch many — and sometimes all — of your favorite preseason matchups live.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are multiple convenient and accessible ways to watch NFL preseason games in 2025. Whether you prefer the official NFL+ streaming service with its free trial, or free local broadcasts via NBC, CBS, and FOX, each option offers unique benefits to suit different viewing preferences. Moreover, mobile users will appreciate the flexibility of the Yahoo Sports app for watching games on the go. Therefore, no matter your location or device, you can easily catch all the preseason action without missing a moment. Ultimately, exploring these platforms ensures you stay connected to the excitement of football before the regular season kicks off.
Also Read | How to Watch Live Broadcasts of American Football
