NFL Preseason Viewing Guide: Ways to Watch on TV & Streaming
After six long months without any pro football action, August sees the return of all 32 NFL teams, as they begin their preparation with at least three preseason games throughout the month. For fans, this is the first opportunity to catch a glance of the additions the team has made in the draft or free agency, and to see how they might fit into the coach’s plans for the upcoming season.
In this guide, we’ll let you know exactly what channels you’ll need to watch your favorite team take their first steps towards the real stuff beginning in September.
How to access NFL Preseason games
Across the three weeks of NFL Preseason action, games will be shown on various different channels and streaming services. How you watch your games will depend on where in the country you’re tuning in from, as local markets can influence what game is being shown.
Below, we’ll answer all the questions you might have about this season’s preseason action, and what channels every game will be on.
What streaming service do I need to watch the NFL Preseason?
If you’re looking to watch NFL preseason action, the best option is NFL+, which will show every out-of-market preseason game live on the platform. As all games are in the month of August, fans get access to all of these for just $6.99 on the ordinary plan and $14.99 for NFL+ Premium.
However, some games are only available on other streaming platforms, with Peacock showcasing the Hall of Fame Game and Amazon Prime Video showing the Thursday Night Football preseason finale. Beyond this though, NFL+ will have access to other games, and you can use our handy NFL TV schedule to find out exactly when your favorite team is next playing.
Watch NFL Preseason on NFL+
NFL+ is one of the key streaming options for the NFL preseason, giving fans access to every out-of-market preseason game live. It’s a strong choice for anyone looking to follow preseason action throughout August without relying only on local TV coverage.
How can I stream all NFL Preseason games?
As above, fans who have access to NFL+ will be able to use that platform to stream almost all NFL preseason. However, some games may be blacked out due to the game being carried by local affiliate TV networks, or because the game is going to be broadcast nationally.
Then, on top of that, Peacock and Amazon Prime Video both have some exclusive action, meaning you will need a subscription to those platforms if you want to stream every NFL Preseason game.
Will the NFL Preseason be televised?
Yes, all NFL preseason games will be televised, with the majority of games being shown on your team’s local CBS and FOX affiliates across the preseason. There will also be nationally broadcast games each week, carried on FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN.
As above, some games will also be shown exclusively on streaming platforms. The bottom line, though, is that all games will be visible one way or another, so you’ll never miss a second of your favorite team during the preseason.
Will NFL Preseason games be available on Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)?
In some instances, yes, but the majority of games will be found on local affiliates (such as CBS or FOX). These channels will show around 90% of the games throughout the preseason, however, some teams do still partner with Regional Sports Networks.
To make sure you know how to watch your team in the 2026 NFL Preseason, make sure to bookmark our NFL TV guide.
FAQ: How to watch the NFL Preseason on TV & Streaming
Where Can I Watch NFL Preseason Games?
NFL preseason games will be shown primarily on local affiliate channels, as well as on some streaming services such as Peacock and Amazon Prime Video. Some select games will also be broadcast nationally on FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN.
Can I Stream NFL Preseason Games Without Cable?
Yes, with an NFL+ subscription, you’ll be able to get access to every out-of-market NFL preseason game starting at a cost of just $6.99 per month. Beyond that, if you have subscriptions to other, further-reaching cable-replacement services such as YouTube TV, Fubo or Sling TV, you’ll be able to watch NFL preseason action on them.
Are All NFL Preseason Games Available On TV?
Yes, all NFL preseason games will be shown on TV across August. When the time comes, our NFL guide lets you know exactly where you need to tune in to catch the games.
What Streaming Service Shows Every NFL Preseason Game?
Whilst no individual streaming service shows every NFL preseason game, NFL+ will show every game that’s played outside your local market. To watch absolutely every game, you’ll need access to Peacock and Amazon Prime Video as well, as they hold rights to specific matchups.
Are NFL Preseason Games Available On NFL+?
Yes, all NFL preseason games outside your local market will be available on NFL+.
Can I Watch Out-Of-Market NFL Preseason Games?
Yes, you’ll be able to watch every out-of-market NFL preseason game on NFL+ from a cost starting at $6.99 per month, with the Premium package costing $14.99 per month.
Are NFL Preseason Games Shown On Regional Sports Networks?
Most NFL preseason games are shown on local broadcast affiliates, however some teams do still partner with Regional Sports Networks.
Can I Watch NFL Preseason Games For Free?
Yes, if you’re looking to watch NFL preseason games for free, you’ll be able to catch your local team’s games by using a digital antenna, provided you are in range of your local affiliate station. Beyond this, you may be able to utilize a free trial from Fubo, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, which will allow you to watch games on the included channels during that time.
Do National TV Channels Show NFL Preseason Games?
Yes, during the NFL preseason, select games will be shown on national TV channels, with CBS, NBC, FOX and ESPN all having access to games throughout August.
Are NFL Preseason Games Available On Demand?
Yes, if you’re looking to watch NFL preseason games on demand, NFL+’s Premium tier is your best option, as this will let you watch the full TV broadcast of every preseason game for just $14.99 per month.