To watch NFL preseason games in 2026, you’ll mostly be using NFL Network, NFL+, major broadcast networks (FOX, NBC, CBS, ABC/ESPN), and live TV streaming services; some games are also available via team sites and apps.

How to Watch NFL Preseason Games

Main Ways to Watch

1. NFL Network

NFL Network shows a large portion of preseason games every year, including many out‑of‑market matchups and replays. You can get it in two main ways:

  • Traditional cable/satellite (check your provider’s sports tier).
  • Live TV streaming services such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, DirecTV Stream, and others, which commonly include NFL Network in their sports or base packages.

Once you have access, you can stream NFL Network via the NFL website or NFL app using your provider login.

2. NFL+ (NFL Plus)

NFL+ is the league’s own streaming service and is a core option for preseason.

  • It offers live out‑of‑market preseason games that you can watch on your phone, tablet, or connected devices, along with local and prime‑time regular/postseason games on mobile devices.
  • Plans typically start at a low monthly or annual rate (around budget streaming prices) and sometimes include free trials or limited‑time discounts.

You subscribe via NFL.com or the NFL app and then pick the game from the preseason schedule page.

3. Broadcast Networks (FOX, CBS, NBC, ABC/ESPN)

Some preseason games, especially nationally featured ones and “dress rehearsal” Week 3 games, air on the big broadcast networks.

You can watch them by:

  • Using a digital antenna for local over‑the‑air signals if you’re in range of the station.
  • Using live TV streamers (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, DirecTV Stream) that carry those channels in your area.

These options are great if your favorite team’s preseason game is being carried locally or nationally.

4. Live TV Streaming Services (Without Cable)

If you’ve cut the cord, “skinny bundle” live TV services are the main alternative.

Popular options that typically carry some mix of NFL Network + local/national channels:

  • YouTube TV – often includes NFL Network and all major broadcast networks in many markets.
  • Hulu + Live TV – combines Hulu’s on‑demand library with live sports channels and local networks.
  • Sling TV – cheaper, but you may need specific Blue/Orange + sports add‑ons to get NFL Network and key channels.
  • DirecTV Stream – more traditional channel‑bundle feel, with NFL‑friendly sports packages and promos.

Most of them offer short free trials or introductory deals around the preseason window.

5. Team Sites, Apps, and Local Feeds

For some preseason games, especially those not picked up nationally, teams stream or simulcast through their own digital platforms.

  • The NFL specifically notes that live preseason games can be accessed through your favorite club’s website or mobile app in certain markets.
  • Local regional sports networks or local TV stations may carry team‑produced preseason broadcasts, often accessible through local streaming apps.

This can be useful for die‑hard fans who just want their team’s feed, including local commentators.

Quick Methods to Watch (Step‑by‑Step)

If You Want Every Game Possible

  1. Subscribe to NFL+ for out‑of‑market preseason games.
  1. Add a live TV streaming service that includes NFL Network plus local channels (like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV).
  1. Use the NFL.com preseason schedule to check which network or app each game is on, then open the corresponding app at kickoff.

If You Just Want Your Team’s Games

  1. Go to your team’s official site or app and look for the “Watch” or “Preseason” section.
  1. Check local listings for FOX, CBS, NBC, or regional sports channels that carry your team’s preseason broadcasts.
  1. If a game is on NFL Network or national TV, use your cable/streaming login to watch live.

Devices You Can Use

You can watch preseason games on most modern devices:

  • Smart TVs and streaming sticks (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast) via NFL apps and live TV streamer apps.
  • Phones and tablets via the NFL app (especially for NFL+ and club streams).
  • Laptops/desktops via NFL.com and provider sites.

NFL Network and other preseason channels are widely supported on these platforms, so you can switch screens easily.

Example Viewing Plan for a Weekend

Imagine it’s a busy preseason Saturday:

  • Afternoon: Watch your local team on FOX with an antenna or via Hulu + Live TV.
  • Evening: Switch to NFL Network in your streaming app for a different out‑of‑market matchup.
  • Late night: Use NFL+ to catch another game or a condensed replay you missed earlier.

This combination keeps you in the loop without a traditional cable package.

Mini Table: Core Options for Watching

[9][1][5] [1][7][9] [3][5][8] [10][7] [5]
Option What It Covers Best For
NFL Network National slate of live and replayed preseason games.Fans wanting lots of different matchups.
NFL+ Live out‑of‑market preseason games and mobile access.Cord‑cutters and mobile viewers.
Live TV streamers Mix of NFL Network + local FOX/CBS/NBC/ESPN channels.Replacing full cable with one app.
Team sites/apps Certain preseason games via club streams.Fans focused on one team.
Antenna Local FOX, CBS, NBC broadcasts in HD over the air.Budget viewers near broadcast towers.

Forum‑Style Angle & Trending Context

In fan forums and comment threads, people often compare:

“Is NFL+ enough for preseason, or do I still need YouTube TV or Hulu Live for some games?”

The common pattern is using one “base” service (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or similar) for channels like NFL Network, FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, then layering NFL+ on top to catch out‑of‑market preseason games and mobile viewing. As 2026 approaches, many guides highlight that you no longer need a bulky cable bundle: a skinny streaming package plus NFL+ and occasional club streams can cover nearly everything.

TL;DR: To watch NFL preseason games, pair NFL+ with a live TV streaming service that includes NFL Network and major broadcast channels, then supplement with your favorite team’s website/app and free over‑the‑air locals where available.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.