What Channels Is Monday Night Football On?

What Channels Is Monday Night Football On?

By Sarah Miller ·

Monday Night Football is primarily broadcast on ABC and ESPN, with select games available on ESPN+ for streaming. Starting in 2023, the long-running NFL series moved exclusively to ABC and ESPN under a new rights agreement, ending its previous availability on cable-only networks. Additionally, games can be streamed live via services like Hulu Live, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and the ESPN app with authentication.

Where to Watch Monday Night Football

Viewers across the United States have multiple options to watch Monday Night Football, one of the most iconic weekly sports broadcasts. The primary television channels airing the games are ABC and ESPN. This dual-network approach ensures broad accessibility both over-the-air and through cable or satellite subscriptions.

Primary Broadcast Channels

Streaming Options for Monday Night Football

For cord-cutters and mobile viewers, several legal streaming platforms carry ABC and ESPN, allowing fans to watch Monday Night Football live online.

Top Streaming Services

International Viewing Options

Fans outside the U.S. can access Monday Night Football games through official NFL international partners:

Broadcast Schedule and Game Times

Games typically kick off at 8:15 PM ET (7:15 PM CT / 5:15 PM PT), though occasional early or late-season matchups may vary slightly. The schedule runs from Week 1 through Week 18 of the NFL regular season, usually featuring one game per week.

Season Primary Channel Simulcast On Streaming Platform Exclusive Rights Holder
2021–2022 ESPN None ESPN App, Hulu Live ESPN
2023–2024 ABC ESPN ABC.com, ESPN App, YouTube TV Disney (ABC/ESPN)
2025 ABC ESPN ESPN+, FuboTV, Sling TV Disney
Table data source:1, 2

The shift to simulcasting on ABC and ESPN since 2023 has significantly increased national reach, particularly benefiting households without cable. Disney's strategy leverages ABC’s free-to-air distribution while maintaining ESPN’s premium sports branding. This dual-platform model is expected to continue through at least the 2025 season.

About Monday Night Football

Since its debut in 1970, Monday Night Football has become a cultural staple of the NFL season. It was the first prime-time professional football broadcast and helped popularize the league nationally. Today, it remains a key component of the NFL’s television strategy, often featuring high-profile matchups and playoff implications late in the season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monday Night Football

What channels are Monday Night Football games on?

Monday Night Football games are broadcast on ABC and ESPN in the United States. Both networks simulcast the same game each week, with ABC offering over-the-air access and ESPN requiring a pay-TV subscription.

Can I stream Monday Night Football for free?

Yes, you can stream Monday Night Football for free if you have an HD antenna to receive ABC over-the-air. Alternatively, you can use a free trial from a live TV streaming service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV to watch online at no immediate cost.

Is Monday Night Football on ESPN+?

No, full live games are not available on ESPN+ due to broadcast rights. However, ESPN+ provides exclusive pre-game coverage, post-game analysis, and condensed replays of Monday Night Football games.

What time does Monday Night Football start?

Monday Night Football games typically start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. Kickoff times may vary slightly depending on the matchup or special scheduling considerations, especially during holidays or playoff races.

Will all Monday Night Football games be on ABC in 2025?

Yes, starting in 2023 and continuing through the 2025 season, all Monday Night Football games will be simulcast on both ABC and ESPN as part of Disney’s expanded broadcast rights agreement with the NFL.