In the NFL, “OT” usually means overtime , and the number of overtimes depends on whether it’s the regular season or the playoffs.

Regular season: 1 overtime period

  • Games can have only one overtime period of up to 10 minutes.
  • If the score is still tied after that overtime, the game ends in a tie.
  • Each team gets a chance with the ball unless the first team scores a touchdown or there’s a defensive score on the first possession.

Playoffs: multiple overtimes if needed

  • In the playoffs, the game cannot end in a tie , so overtime continues with as many 15‑minute OT periods as needed until one team wins.
  • Since the recent rule changes, both teams are guaranteed at least one possession in postseason overtime unless there’s a defensive touchdown or safety on the first series.

So if your question is “how many OT in NFL?”:

  • Regular season: max 1 OT period.
  • Playoffs: unlimited OTs until there is a winner.