What Time Is Monday Night Football in 2025?

By Sarah Miller · September 12, 2037

Monday Night Football typically starts at 8:15 PM Eastern Time (ET) on ESPN, though kickoff times may vary slightly depending on the week and broadcast schedule.

What Is Monday Night Football?

Monday Night Football (MNF) is one of the most iconic weekly broadcasts in American sports. Airing on ESPN since 1970, it features a marquee National Football League (NFL) game every week during the regular season and occasionally during the playoffs. The event has become a cultural staple, drawing millions of viewers each week and often influencing NFL betting lines, fantasy football decisions, and player popularity.

Key Features of Monday Night Football

Broadcast live on ESPN every week during the NFL season
Typically features high-profile matchups with playoff implications
Includes pre-game, halftime, and post-game analysis from top sports commentators
Available via cable, satellite, and streaming platforms including ESPN.com and the ESPN app
Games are played primarily at 8:15 PM ET, though special editions may air earlier or later

When Does Monday Night Football Start in 2025?

In the 2025 NFL season, Monday Night Football games are scheduled to begin at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. This start time has been standard for most MNF games in recent years, allowing fans on both coasts to tune in after work or dinner. However, select games—especially doubleheaders or those involving West Coast teams—may kick off at 7:15 PM ET or 8:00 PM ET.

Time Zone Schedule for Monday Night Football

Here’s how the typical 8:15 PM ET kickoff translates across major U.S. time zones:

Time Zone	Local Kickoff Time (Standard)
Eastern Time (ET)	8:15 PM
Central Time (CT)	7:15 PM
Mountain Time (MT)	6:15 PM
Pacific Time (PT)	5:15 PM

Table data source:ESPN NFL Schedule, NFL Official Schedule

The consistent 8:15 PM ET start time maximizes national viewership by balancing prime-time exposure across all regions. Earlier start times are occasionally used to accommodate team travel or broadcasting logistics, especially during holiday weeks or international games.

How to Watch Monday Night Football

Fans have multiple options to watch Monday Night Football, whether they prefer traditional TV or digital streaming.

TV and Streaming Options

Cable/Satellite: Available on ESPN through providers like Comcast, DirecTV, and Spectrum
Streaming Services: Accessible via Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, Sling TV, and DIRECTV Stream
ESPN App: Free with a valid cable login; supports mobile, tablet, and smart TV devices
International Viewers: Broadcast partners include DAZN (Canada, Germany, Austria), Sky Sports (UK), and Seven Network (Australia)

Notable Monday Night Football Announcers in 2025

As of 2025, ESPN's lead broadcast team includes some of the most recognizable voices in sports media:

Joe Buck – Play-by-play announcer
Troy Aikman – Lead analyst (former Dallas Cowboys quarterback)
Lisa Salters – Sideline reporter

This trio provides expert commentary and real-time insights, enhancing the viewing experience for casual fans and hardcore analysts alike.

History and Significance of Monday Night Football

Launched in 1970, Monday Night Football revolutionized sports television by bringing professional football into the prime-time spotlight. It was the first weekly sports program to dominate primetime ratings and helped elevate the NFL to its current status as America’s most popular sport.

Over the decades, MNF has featured legendary moments—from Hank Stram’s headset audio in Super Bowl IV to Bo Jackson’s highlight-reel runs and Dak Prescott’s record-setting debuts. Its influence extends beyond sports, having hosted performances by musicians, political figures, and even served as a backdrop for major advertising campaigns during events like the Super Bowl lead-in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monday Night Football

What time does Monday Night Football start in 2025?

Most Monday Night Football games in 2025 start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time (ET). Some early-season or doubleheader games may begin at 7:15 PM ET.

Is Monday Night Football always on ESPN?

Yes, since 2006, all Monday Night Football games have aired exclusively on ESPN in the United States. Prior to that, it aired on ABC from 1970 to 2005.

Can I stream Monday Night Football for free?

You can stream MNF for free on the ESPN app if you have a cable subscription that includes ESPN. Alternatively, services like Sling TV and fuboTV offer free trial periods that include live access to ESPN.

Does Monday Night Football happen every week?

Yes, there is a Monday Night Football game nearly every week during the NFL regular season, which runs from September to January. There are no MNF games during Week 18 of the regular season or during the bye weeks unless part of a special doubleheader.

Are there ever two Monday Night Football games?

Yes, starting in 2021, ESPN introduced select doubleheaders—two games on the same Monday night. These typically occur in Weeks 2–17 and are designed to maximize viewership and playoff implications.