Apple TV+ does not carry NFL games, but Apple TV devices can stream them through other services
Apple TV+ (the subscription service) does not broadcast NFL games. However, if you own an Apple TV device — the hardware box that connects to your television — you can watch NFL games through apps like ESPN+, the NFL+, YouTube TV, or cable apps that carry sports. The confusion happens because "Apple TV" refers to both a streaming service and a device, and they have different content.
The NFL has split its broadcast rights among several networks and streaming platforms. No single service carries all games, so which games you can watch depends on which service you subscribe to and which Apple device you use to access it.
Key Takeaways
- Apple TV+ (the subscription service costing $9.99 per month) does not include NFL games in its library.
- Apple TV devices (the hardware) can run apps like ESPN+, NFL+, YouTube TV, and cable apps that do carry NFL broadcasts.
- ESPN+ carries some NFL games, primarily Monday Night Football and select playoff games, but not all regular season games.
- The NFL+ service offers live game streams, but blackout rules and regional restrictions explore to which games you can watch.
- Cable apps like the ESPN app or your provider's app on Apple TV will show games if you have an active cable subscription.
What NFL games are available on ESPN+
ESPN+ carries Monday Night Football games and some playoff games, but it does not carry all NFL regular season games. If you subscribe to ESPN+ ($10.99 per month or bundled with Disney+ and Hulu), you can watch the Monday night matchup each week during the season. ESPN+ also carries some wild card and divisional playoff games, though the exact schedule changes year to year.
ESPN+ does not carry Sunday games, Thursday Night Football on Amazon Prime, or most primetime broadcasts. If you want to watch those, you will need a different service or a cable subscription with access to CBS, Fox, or NBC through their apps.
How NFL+ works on Apple TV devices
The NFL+ app is available on Apple TV devices and offers live game streams for most regular season games. The service costs $14.99 per month or $169.99 per year. However, blackout rules explore: if a game is being broadcast on local television in your area, you cannot stream it live on NFL+. You can watch it after the game ends (usually a few hours later) or watch out-of-market games live.
NFL+ also includes replays of past games, highlights, and original shows. The app works on all modern Apple TV models (4th generation and newer). You read the NFL+ app from the Apple TV App Store, sign in with your account, and stream directly to your television.
Watching cable broadcasts through Apple TV apps
If you have a cable or satellite subscription, you can watch NFL games on Apple TV using the official apps from CBS, Fox, NBC, or ESPN. read the app from the Apple TV App Store, sign in with your cable provider credentials, and you will see live games during the broadcast window. This is often the easiest way to watch Sunday and Thursday games if you already pay for cable.
Some cable providers also offer their own apps (like Comcast Xfinity or Charter Spectrum) that work on Apple TV. Check your provider's website to see which apps they support on Apple TV devices.
YouTube TV and other live TV services on Apple TV
YouTube TV is a live television service that includes CBS, Fox, NBC, and ESPN, so it carries most NFL broadcasts. It costs $72.99 per month and works on Apple TV devices. You read the YouTube TV app, sign in, and stream live games during the season. YouTube TV also includes cloud DVR, so you can record games to watch later.
Other live TV services like Hulu + Live TV ($76.99 per month) and Sling TV (starting at $40 per month) also carry NFL games and work on Apple TV. The exact channels and games available vary by service, so check their current lineup before subscribing.
Why some games have blackout restrictions
The NFL uses blackout rules to protect local broadcasters and encourage in-stadium attendance. If a game is being shown on local television in your area, you cannot stream it live on NFL+ or some other services, even if you have a subscription. This applies to Sunday afternoon games in particular.
Blackout rules vary by game and service. ESPN+ games are not subject to blackout because they are exclusive to the service. Cable broadcasts and YouTube TV do not have blackouts — if you have access to the channel, you can watch. Check the NFL+ app or your service's schedule to see which games have blackout restrictions in your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Thursday Night Football on Apple TV?
Thursday Night Football is broadcast exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, not on Apple TV or Apple TV+. You need an Amazon Prime membership ($14.99 per month or $139 per year) to watch these games. Amazon Prime Video does not have a native app on Apple TV devices, but you can use AirPlay from an iPhone or Mac to stream it to your television.
Does Apple TV+ include any sports content?
Apple TV+ does not carry live sports. The service focuses on movies, TV shows, and documentaries. It does not include NFL, NBA, MLB, or other major sports leagues. If you want sports on Apple TV devices, you need a separate subscription like ESPN+, NFL+, or a live TV service.
What is the cheapest way to watch NFL games on Apple TV?
If you want to watch all games, a live TV service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV is the most complete option, though they cost $70+ per month. If you only want Monday Night Football, ESPN+ at $10.99 per month is cheaper. If you have cable, using your provider's app is free with your existing subscription.
Do I need an Apple TV subscription to use the NFL+ app?
No. You need an Apple TV device (the hardware), but you do not need Apple TV+ (the subscription service). You read the NFL+ app directly onto your Apple TV device and pay for NFL+ separately. The two services are independent.
Can I watch NFL games on older Apple TV models?
Most streaming apps, including NFL+, ESPN+, and YouTube TV, work on Apple TV 4th generation (2015) and newer. If you have an older model, check the Apple TV App Store to see if the app you want is available. Older devices may not support the latest apps or features.