The new NFL season is almost here, and fans in the UK have more ways than ever to follow every touchdown, sack, and highlight. From free-to-air channels to premium subscriptions and even radio coverage, here’s a complete guide to where you can catch the action this season.

Free-to-Air Coverage

For those who prefer not to pay extra, Channel 5 is the biggest winner this year. On Sunday nights it transforms into 5NFL, broadcasting two live games every week: one at 6pm and another at 9pm.

5 also get three playoff games, the London and Dublin Games and ‘Thanksgiving Day specials’.

They will also cover the Superbowl.

These broadcasts come with a family-friendly entertainment show designed to make the NFL more accessible to casual viewers.

Channel 5 has commissioned NFL: Big Game Night from Hungry Bear Media – the creators of The Wheel and Gladiators. The show blends live NFL action with a uniquely British game show twist.

Dermot O’Leary will front the programme, joined by Sam Quek and former NFL star Osi Umenyiora.

Instead of cutting to adverts during natural breaks in the US broadcast – like timeouts, halftime, or commercial pauses – viewers will see a play-along format. Two teams of friends and family, each supporting one of the competing NFL sides, will battle it out for points.

Here’s the catch: teams only earn points while their NFL side has possession of the ball. A fumble or interception flips the advantage, suddenly handing control to the opposing family. The winning team gets the chance to compete for a holiday to an NFL city in the United States.

Later, the 9pm slot will take a more traditional shape, with Quek and Umenyiora providing analysis and discussion, alongside weekly guest appearances.

Sky Sports: Comprehensive Coverage

For the most dedicated fans, Sky Sports remains the go-to broadcaster. Its NFL package includes Thursday Night Football, Monday Night Football, multiple Sunday evening games, and the ever-popular NFL RedZone channel. Sky also provides in-depth studio analysis, highlights, and of course, full coverage of the playoffs and the Super Bowl.

However, it’s worth noting that Sky’s exclusive rights to the 6pm and 9:25pm Sunday games expired after the 2024 season. The network still offers a huge slate of live football, but its exact schedule may shift slightly as rights are redistributed.

UPDATE : Skys new NFL deal details here

Streaming with DAZN: NFL Game Pass International

If you want every game, every week, then NFL Game Pass (via DAZN) is the answer. Subscribers get access to all regular season and playoff games live or on-demand, plus the Super Bowl. It’s the most comprehensive way to follow the season.

There is one catch: up to two Sunday games per week (the ones shown live on Sky Sports) are subject to a 24-hour blackout delay. For most fans, this isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s worth considering if you want every game live in real time.

Radio Coverage

If you’re on the go, there are strong options for listening live. talkSPORT and talkSPORT2 will broadcast over 60 games this season, including Sunday Night Football, playoff matchups, and the Super Bowl. On the BBC, Radio 5 Sports Extra (and BBC Sounds) will carry one Sunday evening game every week, providing a reliable alternative for fans who prefer audio commentary.

Final Thoughts

Between Channel 5, ITV, Sky Sports, DAZN, and radio coverage, UK NFL fans are spoiled for choice this year. Whether you want free-to-air highlights, full subscription coverage, or radio broadcasts during your commute, there’s a format that suits every fan.

The 2025 season promises not just thrilling action on the field but also the most accessible viewing experience UK audiences have ever had. So whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer curious about American football, this is the perfect year to tune in.