YouTube TV does not carry NFL Network as part of its standard channel lineup
YouTube TV's base package includes ESPN, ESPN2, and other sports channels, but NFL Network is not among them. If you want to watch NFL Network programming—including live games, analysis shows, and original series—you will need a different streaming service or cable provider.
This matters because NFL Network carries exclusive content that you cannot find on ESPN, local broadcasts, or other major sports channels. Some games air only on NFL Network, and the channel runs original programming throughout the year, not just during football season.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube TV's standard package does not include NFL Network, though it does carry ESPN and local sports channels.
- NFL Network shows exclusive games and original programming that do not air on ESPN, local stations, or other mainstream channels.
- Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and traditional cable packages do offer NFL Network if that channel is important to you.
- YouTube TV may add NFL Network in the future, but as of now it is not available through the service.
What NFL Network actually broadcasts
NFL Network airs live games during the regular season and playoffs, including Thursday Night Football games that are exclusive to the network. It also runs original shows like NFL Total Access, NFL GameDay Morning, and NFL GameDay Prime, which provide analysis and behind-the-scenes content.
The channel also carries the NFL Draft, NFL Scouting Combine coverage, and replays of classic games. If you follow the NFL closely, you will notice that some regular-season games are broadcast only on NFL Network, meaning you cannot watch them through ESPN, your local CBS or Fox affiliate, or YouTube TV.
Streaming services that do carry NFL Network
Sling TV includes NFL Network in its Orange + Blue package (the combination of both Sling Orange and Sling Blue). This is the most affordable option if NFL Network is your main reason for switching.
Hulu + Live TV includes NFL Network in its base package. This service also carries ESPN, local channels, and a large on-demand library, so it works well if you want multiple types of content beyond just football.
YouTube TV competitors like FuboTV and Vidgo also carry NFL Network, though pricing and channel selection vary. If you already subscribe to cable or satellite TV, NFL Network is typically included in standard packages from providers like Comcast, Charter, and DirecTV.
Why YouTube TV does not include NFL Network
Streaming services negotiate with networks individually for the right to carry their channels. NFL Network's licensing fees are high, and YouTube TV's pricing strategy has focused on offering a broad range of channels at a lower cost than cable rather than including every premium sports network.
YouTube TV does prioritize ESPN and ESPN2, which carry the majority of live NFL games through Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football, and playoff broadcasts. For most viewers, those channels cover the games they want to watch. NFL Network becomes essential mainly if you want to catch exclusive Thursday Night Football games or follow the network's original programming.
How to watch NFL games without NFL Network
Most regular-season NFL games air on CBS, Fox, ESPN, or NBC through local broadcasts and national networks. YouTube TV carries all of these channels, so you can watch the vast majority of games without NFL Network.
The NFL also offers NFL+, a separate subscription service that streams live games on mobile devices and tablets (though not on TV). This costs less than switching to a different live TV service and may be enough if you mainly want to catch games on your phone or tablet while traveling.
If you have a cable or satellite login from another provider, you can also use the NFL app or the NFL.com website to stream some games for free, depending on your provider's agreement with the league.
Comparing YouTube TV to services with NFL Network
| Service | NFL Network | ESPN | Local Channels | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | No | Yes | Yes | $72–$85/month |
| Sling TV (Orange + Blue) | Yes | Yes | Limited | $45–$60/month |
| Hulu + Live TV | Yes | Yes | Yes | $77–$99/month |
| FuboTV | Yes | No | Yes | $80–$110/month |
Sling TV is the cheapest option if NFL Network is your priority, though it carries fewer local channels than YouTube TV. Hulu + Live TV costs more but includes NFL Network plus a large on-demand library. FuboTV skips ESPN entirely but focuses on sports, so it works best if you watch multiple sports beyond football.
What to do if you want NFL Network but prefer YouTube TV
If you like YouTube TV's interface, channel selection, and price but need NFL Network, you have a few options. You could keep YouTube TV for most of your viewing and add a separate NFL+ subscription for exclusive games and mobile streaming. This costs less than switching entirely to another service.
Alternatively, you could switch to Hulu + Live TV or Sling TV for the football season and return to YouTube TV afterward, though this requires managing two subscriptions temporarily. Some people also use an antenna to pick up local broadcasts and combine that with YouTube TV plus NFL+, which covers most games without paying for a full second streaming service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Thursday Night Football on YouTube TV?
Some Thursday Night Football games air on ESPN or local channels and are available on YouTube TV. However, games that are exclusive to NFL Network will not be available through YouTube TV. Check the NFL schedule to see which channel is broadcasting each game.
Does YouTube TV ever add new channels?
YouTube TV occasionally adds channels, but there is no announcement that NFL Network will be added. Channel additions depend on licensing negotiations between YouTube and the networks, which can take months or years to complete.
Is NFL+ the same as NFL Network?
No. NFL+ is a separate subscription service that streams games on mobile devices and tablets. NFL Network is a cable channel that airs live games, analysis shows, and original programming on television. You need both if you want the full NFL Network experience on your TV.
What if I only want to watch my team's games?
Most teams' games air on CBS, Fox, ESPN, or NBC, all of which are on YouTube TV. You will only miss games if your team plays an exclusive NFL Network game, which happens a few times per season. Check your team's schedule to see if any games are NFL Network-only before deciding to switch services.
Can I use a VPN to access NFL Network on YouTube TV?
No. YouTube TV's licensing agreements are tied to your location, and using a VPN violates the service's terms of use. The service will block access if it detects a VPN connection.