Where To Watch NFL Preseason Games: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey football fans! Are you ready for some preseason NFL action? I know I am! Preseason games are a fantastic way to get a sneak peek at your favorite team's rookies, see how the veterans are shaping up, and just generally get that football fix before the regular season kicks off. But, like, where can you actually watch these games? Don't worry, my friends, I've got you covered. Let's dive into all the ways you can catch the preseason NFL action, from traditional TV broadcasts to streaming services and even the NFL's own platforms. We'll break down each option so you can choose the best way to watch for you.

1. Traditional Television Broadcasts: Good Ol' Reliable

The most traditional way to watch preseason NFL games is, of course, on TV! National broadcasts are often carried by major networks like ESPN, NFL Network, CBS, FOX, and NBC. Keep an eye on your local listings, too, because many games are also broadcast by local TV stations, especially those involving teams in your area. Local broadcasts can be a great way to catch your home team in action and often include commentary and analysis tailored to your specific market. Think of it this way, catching the game on your local channel feels like hanging out with your neighbors and talking football. To figure out the local broadcast schedule, you can check your local TV listings online, through your cable provider, or even in your good old-fashioned newspaper (if you still get one of those!).

But here's the thing, guys, preseason NFL games on national TV aren’t quite as predictable as regular-season games. The schedule can be a bit scattered, and not every game gets the national treatment. That's why it's crucial to plan ahead. A good strategy is to check the NFL's official website or a reliable sports schedule website like ESPN.com or NFL.com. They'll have the most up-to-date information on which games are being broadcast nationally and on which networks. Also, remember that times and channels can sometimes change, so it's always wise to double-check the day of the game. There's nothing worse than settling in to watch a game only to find out it's not on the channel you expected! And don't forget about your trusty DVR! If you know you'll be busy during a game but still want to watch it later, set your DVR to record it. This way, you can catch up on all the action at your convenience. It's like having your own personal replay booth!

2. NFL Network: Your 24/7 Football Fix

For the die-hard NFL fans, NFL Network is your best friend. This channel is a treasure trove of football content, and that includes a ton of live preseason games. NFL Network typically broadcasts a significant number of preseason games, often showing games that aren't available on other national networks. This means you have a much better chance of seeing your favorite team, even if they aren't playing in a marquee matchup. Plus, NFL Network offers a lot more than just live games. You'll also find pre-game analysis, post-game recaps, and all sorts of other football-related programming. It's basically a 24/7 football party!

Now, the catch is that NFL Network isn't available on every cable or satellite package. You'll likely need a higher-tier subscription to access it. So, check your current cable or satellite package to see if you already get NFL Network. If not, you might need to upgrade. It might seem like an extra expense, but if you're a serious football fan, it's often worth it for the sheer amount of content you get. And if you're considering cutting the cord (more on that later!), many streaming services that offer live TV also include NFL Network in their packages. So, there are plenty of ways to get your fix. Beyond the live games, NFL Network is fantastic for staying up-to-date on all the latest NFL news and happenings. They have shows dedicated to training camp updates, player interviews, and in-depth analysis of each team. It's like having your own personal NFL insider! For those who love to dive deep into the game, NFL Network also airs classic games and documentaries about the history of the NFL. It's a great way to learn more about the sport and appreciate its rich legacy. So, if you're a true football fanatic, NFL Network is a must-have.

3. Streaming Services: Cutting the Cord and Still Catching the Games

Okay, let's talk about streaming, guys! In today's world, streaming services are a fantastic way to watch preseason NFL games and, honestly, pretty much anything else. There are a bunch of options out there that include live TV, and many of them carry the channels you need to watch preseason football, like ESPN, NFL Network, CBS, FOX, and NBC. Services like Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV are all great choices. They offer different channel lineups and price points, so you can pick the one that best fits your needs and budget.

One of the biggest advantages of streaming is the flexibility it offers. You can watch games on your TV, your phone, your tablet, or your computer – basically anywhere you have an internet connection. This is awesome if you're traveling, at a friend's house, or just want to catch a game on your lunch break. Plus, many streaming services offer features like DVR, so you can record games and watch them later. It's like having a traditional DVR, but without the clunky box sitting under your TV! Now, here's a tip: when choosing a streaming service, pay close attention to the channel lineup, especially for local channels. Some services offer local channels in most markets, while others have more limited availability. If you want to watch your local team's preseason games, make sure the service you choose carries your local affiliates of CBS, FOX, and NBC. Another thing to consider is the streaming quality. Most services offer HD streaming, but the quality can vary depending on your internet connection and the device you're using. It's always a good idea to do a trial run to see how the picture looks on your setup. And finally, don't forget about simultaneous streams! Some services limit the number of devices that can stream at the same time, which can be a bummer if you have a household full of football fans. So, check the fine print before you sign up. With a little research, you can find a streaming service that's perfect for your preseason football viewing needs!

4. NFL Game Pass (International): For Our Friends Across the Pond (and Beyond!)

Okay, this one is a bit specific, but super important for our international fans: NFL Game Pass! Now, NFL Game Pass has a few different versions, and the one we're talking about here is the international version. This is a fantastic option if you live outside of the United States and want to watch NFL games, including preseason. The international version of NFL Game Pass offers live streams of every single NFL game, both preseason and regular season, as well as playoffs and the Super Bowl. That's right, guys, every single game! This is a huge deal for fans who don't have access to traditional US broadcast networks.

With NFL Game Pass International, you can watch games live or on-demand, which is super convenient if you're in a different time zone. No more staying up all night to catch a game (unless you want to, of course!). You can also watch games on a variety of devices, including your computer, phone, tablet, and TV. Plus, Game Pass offers a bunch of extra features, like condensed game replays (perfect for when you don't have three hours to spare), coach's film (for the true football nerds!), and access to the NFL Films archive. It's a treasure trove of football content! Now, it's super important to note that the US version of NFL Game Pass is different. In the US, NFL Game Pass primarily offers replays of games after they've aired, not live streams. This is due to broadcasting agreements with the major networks. So, if you're in the US and looking for live streams, you'll need to explore the other options we've talked about, like traditional TV broadcasts or streaming services. But for our friends around the world, NFL Game Pass International is a game-changer. It's the ultimate way to catch all the NFL action, no matter where you are. So, if you're an international fan, be sure to check it out!

5. NFL+: The NFL's Own Streaming Service

Let's talk about NFL+, the NFL's very own streaming service! This is a relatively new player in the preseason NFL game streaming world, but it's definitely worth considering, especially if you're a big fan of mobile viewing. NFL+ offers live streams of all out-of-market preseason games, which is a major perk. This means that if you're not in the local broadcast area of the teams playing, you can still catch the game live on your phone or tablet. It's perfect for fans who are on the go or don't have access to traditional TV broadcasts.

Now, there are a couple of key things to know about NFL+. First, the live game streams are limited to mobile devices (phones and tablets). You can't watch them on your TV, which might be a deal-breaker for some folks. However, NFL+ also offers live local and primetime regular season games on mobile devices, as well as replays of all games (after they've aired) on all devices. So, it's not just about preseason. Another thing to keep in mind is that NFL+ comes in two tiers: a basic plan and a premium plan. The premium plan includes some extra features, like ad-free game replays and access to coach's film. If you're a serious football junkie, the premium plan might be worth the extra cost. NFL+ is a great option for fans who prioritize mobile viewing and want to catch those out-of-market preseason games. It's also a solid choice for staying connected during the regular season, especially if you're a fan who's always on the move. However, if you're primarily looking to watch games on your TV, you'll probably want to explore other options, like traditional TV broadcasts or streaming services that offer live TV on multiple devices. But hey, it's always good to have options, right? And NFL+ is definitely a valuable tool in the arsenal of any dedicated NFL fan.

Conclusion: So Many Ways to Watch!

Alright, football fanatics, there you have it! A comprehensive guide on where to watch preseason NFL games. From traditional TV broadcasts to streaming services, NFL Network, NFL Game Pass International, and NFL+, there are more ways than ever to catch the action. The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, like where you live, how you like to watch, and your budget. So, do a little research, compare your options, and choose the one that fits you best. And most importantly, get ready to enjoy some football! Preseason is a fantastic time to get hyped for the regular season, scout out the rookies, and cheer on your favorite team. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for some gridiron action. Go team!