How To Watch Out-of-Network NFL Games With a VPN

From jaw-dropping touchdowns to last-minute upsets, the NFL season garners a dedicated viewership. Yet for many of these football fans, watching their local NFL games in action isn’t straightforward.

Geo-restrictions can be a formidable opponent. But, just as every defense has a weakness, there's a game-changer in the form of virtual private networks (VPNs), which can help bypass NFL blackout restrictions. 

 We’ll teach you how to use a VPN to watch out-of-market NFL games and share the best VPN providers for the task.

How to watch out-of-market football games

The allure of the NFL transcends borders, with globally scattered football fans eagerly awaiting every snap, pass, and touchdown. However, geo-blocks often serve as the proverbial defensive line, blocking local and international viewers from accessing their favorite matches. The good news? There's a way to bypass this blockade, thanks to VPNs.

VPNs mask your online location and assign you a new IP address. You can select the specific country or region of your choice. If an NFL game is blacked out on your local channels but is available within the U.S., then you could use a VPN to connect to a U.S. server where the game is available and access the live stream.

Let's say you want to watch Pittsburgh Steelers games but NFL blackouts block these games since you live in Pennsylvania. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in California or another faraway state, which likely broadcasts the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Now that you know how VPNs unblock out-of-market games, here's how to set up your VPN for watching football:

1. Choose a VPN for your NFL-viewing lineup. Ideally, you want a VPN with lots of servers in the U.S. — we recommend NordVPN.

2. Download and install the VPN app on the device you use to watch football. For example, if you watch blackout games on your phone, you want to install a VPN on your iPhone or Android.

3. Log in to your VPN and connect to a server in the U.S. If you're itching to watch a specific game, choose a server outside the team's home market to skip the blackout.

4. Enjoy the game!

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On NordVPN's website

VPN

NordVPN

Up to 66% off 2-year plans + 3 months extra

• Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
• Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
• 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
• Too many confusing plans

This strategy doesn't just sidestep blackouts. It's the key for NFL enthusiasts outside the U.S. to consistently stream live football games, playoffs, preseason games, and more. Even if you're continents away, with a VPN, every game feels like a home game.

Best VPNs for streaming the NFL

Streaming the NFL flawlessly requires a VPN with a specific set of capabilities. 

• An expansive range of servers in the U.S. or in countries with access to NFL GamePass, like Mexico, Brazil, and the U.K. This provides flexibility in choosing optimal streaming locations. 
• Ability to unblock geo-restrictions, especially on live TV streaming services.
• Fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth are essential to ensure high-definition streaming without pesky buffering during those nail-biting moments. 
• Compatibility is the final piece of the puzzle. The best VPNs tend to support a range of streaming devices. These include everything from computers to mobile devices and even smart TVs. 

Here are our top three VPN picks for streaming the NFL:

NordVPN

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AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

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On NordVPN's website

VPN

NordVPN

Up to 66% off 2-year plans + 3 months extra

• Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
• Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
• 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
• Too many confusing plans

With over 1,900-plus servers in the U.S. alone, NordVPN promises a reliable VPN connection, making it an excellent choice for NFL streaming. Additionally, its smart DNS feature effortlessly unblocks numerous streaming platforms, giving fans a wider range of viewing options.

Get NordVPN | Read Our NordVPN Review

Surfshark

Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network

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On Surfshark's website

VPN

Surfshark

79% off + 2 months free

• All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
• Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
• One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
• Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance

An underdog that packs a punch, Surfshark allows for unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can stream NFL games on multiple devices at once. Its CleanWeb feature blocks trackers, malware, and ads, even on streaming services, guaranteeing uninterrupted viewing pleasure.

Get Surfshark | Read Our Surfshark Review

ExpressVPN

Extensive Server Network Provides Protection Wherever You Go

4.6

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On ExpressVPN's website

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ExpressVPN

Save 49% (3 months free)

• Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
• Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
• Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
• More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

ExpressVPN is known for its exceptional speed. It offers a vast array of servers in the U.S. and globally, ensuring a smooth streaming experience. Its robust encryption makes it possible to bypass even the toughest geo-restrictions. Plus, its user-friendly interface allows even beginners to get started in no time.

Get ExpressVPN | Read Our ExpressVPN Review

How to use a VPN for NFL streaming

Using a VPN to stream NFL games is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you connected:

1. First, choose a reliable VPN service. You should look for VPNs that have a good track record of bypassing geo-restrictions, like NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN.
2. Sign up and download the VPN from its official website (or from the app store for mobile).
3. Launch the VPN application and sign in using your details.
4. Navigate to the list of servers and select a server with access to the NFL stream you desire.
5. Once connected, you can go to your desired streaming platform, such as Hulu or YouTube TV. (Make sure you have a subscription to the service.)
6. Search for the NFL game or broadcast you want to watch on your platform.
7. Enjoy the game!

Streaming services for watching the NFL from anywhere

The NFL has earned a monumental fan base worldwide. With its popularity, numerous live TV streaming services have secured the rights to air these captivating games. Each service offers a unique flavor of NFL action, ensuring fans never miss a touchdown, regardless of where they are in the world.

How to watch out-of-market games with a VPN and NFL Game Pass

One great option for catching every NFL game is by using NFL+, formerly known as NFL Game Pass. NFL+ provides access to lots of NFL content, including preseason and regular season games. Regular season games are available on NFL+ if they’re available on your local TV network.

Here’s how to watch out-of-market NFL games with a VPN and NFL+:

1. Select a VPN provider. If you don’t already have one, we recommend checking out NordVPN.
2. Once your VPN is downloaded, connect to a server in the city or state of the game you want to watch. For instance, if you want to watch Cleveland Browns games, you could connect to a server in Ohio.
3. Sign in to your NFL+ account.
4. Find the game you wish to watch and start your stream.

Since NFL+ gives you access to games on your local network, you’ll want to connect to a server in the location of the team you hope to watch.

FAQs on watching the NFL from anywhere

Bottom line

The thrill of an NFL game is unparalleled and, for fans across the globe, missing out on that experience due to location restrictions can be deeply frustrating. Fortunately, with the power of VPNs, borders dissolve and regional blackouts become a thing of the past. By virtually relocating your device to a region where the game is broadcasted, all NFL games can become in-market, irrespective of where you physically are in the world.

Moreover, the applications of VPNs extend beyond just streaming sports. For those intrigued by the world of online betting or keen on securing an edge in sports gambling, VPNs can be a game-changer. Dive into the world of secure, anonymous, and unrestricted online experiences by checking out our comprehensive guide to the best VPNs for gambling and sports betting. Ensure you're equipped with the right tools and information to make every game day a winning one!

Customizable Coverage That is Simple to Use

4.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On NordVPN's website

VPN

NordVPN

Up to 66% off 2-year plans + 3 months extra

• Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
• Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
• 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
• Too many confusing plans

Author Details

Ryan L. Clancy

About the Author

Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.

Andrew Adams