What Channel Is Preseason Football On Tonight? (2025)

By Sarah Miller · June 13, 2026

If you're wondering what channel is preseason football on tonight, the answer depends on the specific game, teams, and network scheduling. Preseason NFL games are typically broadcast on national networks like NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN, or NFL Network, and can also stream on platforms such as Peacock, NFL+, ESPN+, or YouTube TV. To find tonight's exact channel, check your local listings or visit the official NFL website for real-time updates.

Understanding Preseason Football Broadcasts

The NFL preseason consists of exhibition games played in August before the regular season begins. While not all games receive national coverage, major matchups—especially involving high-profile teams—are often televised on major networks.

Common National Broadcast Channels

NBC: Often airs Sunday night preseason games, especially those involving marquee franchises.
CBS: Carries many AFC team preseason games and weekend matchups.
FOX: Broadcasts NFC-heavy preseason lineups and regional Saturday games.
ESPN/ABC: Occasionally airs Monday night preseason games; ABC has simulcast select games since 2022.
NFL Network: Shows a selection of exclusive preseason games live.

Streaming Options for Preseason Games

Traditional cable isn't required to watch preseason football. Fans can stream games via:

Peacock: Streams select NBC-broadcast preseason games.
NFL+: Offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices (U.S. only).
YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV: Carry live broadcasts of CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network.
Amazon Prime Video: May stream preseason games aired through other network partners.

How to Find Tonight’s Preseason Game Channel

Since preseason games aren’t always nationally televised, follow these steps to locate the correct channel:

Step-by-Step Guide

Identify the Teams Playing: Local affiliates usually broadcast games based on team markets.
Check the Official NFL Schedule: Visit NFL.com for up-to-date broadcast info.
Use a TV Listings Service: Sites like TitanTV or Zap2It let you search by location and date.
Consult Your Provider: Cable or streaming TV services often have built-in program guides.
Set Alerts: Use the NFL app to get push notifications about kickoff time and channel.

Date	Matchup	Start Time (ET)	National Channel	Streaming Platform(s)
Aug 8, 2025	Packers vs. Raiders	8:00 PM	NFL Network	NFL+, FuboTV
Aug 14, 2025	Buccaneers vs. Browns	7:30 PM	ESPN	ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV
Aug 16, 2025	Chiefs vs. Cardinals	4:00 PM	CBS	Paramount+, YouTube TV
Aug 22, 2025	Rams vs. Chargers	7:00 PM	FOX	FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV
Aug 29, 2025	Colts vs. Steelers	8:15 PM	NBC / Peacock	Peacock, YouTube TV

Table data source:1, 2

The table above shows example 2025 preseason matchups with confirmed national broadcast details. Most late-August games receive broader coverage, while early games may only be available regionally. Note that Peacock is increasingly used for simulcasts, especially for NBC games.

Local vs. National Broadcasts: What You Need to Know

Unlike regular-season games, most preseason games are not guaranteed national exposure. Here's how broadcasting differs:

Local Affiliates: Home and away market stations (e.g., CBS Chicago for Bears games) typically carry the feed.
No Blackout Rules: Preseason games are never blacked out locally, even if sold out.
Team-Specific Networks: Some teams (like the Cowboys) have their own preseason packages aired on regional sports networks.
Simulcasting Rights: Networks must coordinate with NFL Media to air overlapping games.

If you’re outside the team’s designated market, you may need NFL+ or a live TV streaming service to access the game.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preseason Football Channels

What channel is preseason football on tonight?

The channel for tonight's preseason football game depends on the teams playing and whether it's a nationally televised matchup. Common channels include CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, or NFL Network. Check NFL.com or your local TV guide for precise information based on your location.

Are all preseason NFL games on TV?

No, not all preseason games are nationally televised. Many are only broadcast on local network affiliates or team-specific channels. However, every game is available via live streaming on NFL+ (mobile) or through live TV streaming platforms like YouTube TV.

Can I stream preseason games for free?

Limited free streaming options exist. Services like Pluto TV offer free live sports content but don’t carry live NFL games. However, Peacock sometimes offers free previews during select preseason games, and new subscribers to YouTube TV or FuboTV may qualify for trial periods that include live broadcasts.

Does ESPN still show preseason football games?

Yes, ESPN continues to broadcast select preseason games, typically Monday night matchups or interconference contests. These games are also streamed on ESPN+ and available through live TV services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV.

Why can’t I find the preseason game on my TV?

You may not find the game due to regional broadcast restrictions. Preseason games are often only shown in the local markets of the participating teams. If you're outside those areas, use NFL+ for mobile viewing or subscribe to a live TV streaming service that carries the national network airing the game.

Do preseason games air on the same channels as regular season?

Many do—CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN all broadcast both preseason and regular-season games. However, the production scale and commentary teams for preseason games may differ, and fewer games receive national coverage during the preseason.