You can watch NFL preseason through a mix of NFL-owned platforms, local channels, and live TV streaming services, and the exact options depend on the year, matchup, and where you live.

Main ways to watch NFL preseason

  • NFL Network (national games)
    • NFL Network typically carries a large slate of preseason matchups every weekend, including out‑of‑market games.
* You can get NFL Network either via traditional cable/satellite or via live TV streamers like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream, fubo, and Sling (check the specific package, because not all low‑tier plans include NFL Network).
  • NFL+ (mobile/tablet and out‑of‑market)
    • NFL+ streams live out‑of‑market preseason games and also gives you in‑market and national games on mobile devices.
* Plans are usually monthly or annual; the Premium tier adds RedZone and extra features.
  • Local broadcast channels (team markets)
    • Many preseason games air only on local affiliates (CBS, FOX, ABC, NBC) inside each team’s home TV market.
* Example: A Bills preseason game might show on a local CBS station in upstate New York but not nationally.

* You can watch these free over‑the‑air with an antenna or via any streaming bundle that includes your local stations (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream, etc.).
  • Other national partners (select games)
    • A handful of preseason games can appear on ESPN, FOX, NBC, CBS or even Amazon/Peacock, especially for marquee matchups or the Hall of Fame Game.
* These are usually clearly labeled in the preseason TV schedule each summer.

Streaming without cable

If you don’t have cable and just want to stream, your main legal options are:

  1. Live TV streaming services (carry NFL Network + locals, depending on package)
 * YouTube TV
 * Hulu + Live TV
 * DirecTV Stream
 * fubo
 * Sling (check which Sling tier has NFL Network and what locals are available in your area)
  1. NFL+
    • Best for watching lots of preseason games (especially out‑of‑market) on mobile/tablet or via supported devices.
  1. Free, over‑the‑air antenna
    • If you’re near your team’s market, a simple antenna can pick up CBS/FOX/NBC/ABC preseason broadcasts at no monthly cost.

Some guides and fan discussions also talk about hunting for random livestreams on search engines or video sites, but those are often unreliable and can be unauthorized; stick to official broadcasts and licensed streamers to stay on the safe side.

Quick checklist before kickoff

  • Look up your team’s specific preseason schedule and note:
    • Which games are on NFL Network or a national channel.
* Which ones are **“local only”** on a regional station in the team’s market.
  • Decide your setup:
    • Need every game and lots of out‑of‑market action? Go with NFL+ plus a live TV streamer that includes NFL Network and locals.
* Only care about your hometown team and live in‑market? An **antenna plus NFL+** (for mobile viewing) may be enough.

Short answer (TL;DR)

To watch NFL preseason, use NFL Network and NFL+ for most games, local channels for in‑market matchups, and live TV streaming services (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream, fubo, Sling) if you don’t have cable; double‑check your team’s preseason TV schedule each summer because channel and streaming details change slightly year to year.

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