The 2025 NFL season is in full swing, and fans are eager to stay updated on today’s games, scores, and the best ways to watch the action live—especially for free. Whether you’re a die-hard fan rooting for your favorite team or a casual viewer looking to catch the excitement, this comprehensive guide will keep you informed on everything you need to know about NFL games happening today, including live updates, scores, and free viewing options. With the NFL’s growing global reach and packed schedule, there’s no shortage of thrilling matchups to enjoy.

Today’s NFL Games: What’s On?

As of July 17, 2025, the NFL season is in its preseason phase, with training camps underway and the Hall of Fame game set to kick off on July 31. However, no regular-season games are scheduled for today, as the season officially begins on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with the NFL Kickoff Game featuring the Dallas Cowboys against the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. Since today falls outside the regular season or postseason, there are no live NFL games to report. Instead, we’ll focus on preparing you for the upcoming games, providing insights into how to track live scores when games are active, and exploring free viewing options for the season.

For real-time updates during the season, fans can rely on several platforms to stay in the loop. Websites like ESPN, CBS Sports, and NFL.com offer live scores, box scores, video highlights, and play-by-play breakdowns for every game. These platforms provide up-to-the-minute stats, including player performances, team standings, and game odds, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action. Additionally, the NFL App is a fantastic resource for live game-day coverage, offering real-time scoring, in-game highlights, and drive charts.

When the regular season begins, you can expect a packed schedule with games spread across multiple days, including Thursday Night Football, Sunday afternoon games, Sunday Night Football, and Monday Night Football. For example, Week 1 highlights include a marquee matchup between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers on September 7, broadcast on CBS. International games, such as the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil, on September 5, will also add excitement to the season.

How to Track Live Scores and Updates

When NFL games are live, staying updated is easier than ever thanks to modern technology. Here are some of the best platforms and methods to track scores and get live updates:

• ESPN.com: ESPN provides live scores, video highlights, and in-depth analysis for every NFL game. Their platform is user-friendly, with box scores, play breakdowns, and updated odds available in real time. You can also stream select games on ESPN+ if you’re subscribed, though this requires a paid account.
• NFL.com: The official NFL website is a one-stop shop for scores, stats, and highlights. The NFL Channel, available for free on platforms like Tubi, Roku, and Peacock, offers live game-day coverage with real-time updates, though it does not stream live games.
• CBS Sports: Known for its comprehensive coverage, CBS Sports delivers fast, updating scores and player stats as games progress. Their mobile app is particularly useful for fans on the go.
• Yahoo Sports: Yahoo provides live scores, results, and fantasy football updates, making it a great option for fans who want a simple interface to follow games.
• Sporting News: This site offers live updates and detailed game recaps, including box scores and highlights, making it ideal for fans who want a deeper dive into each matchup.
• NFL App: Available on iOS and Android, the NFL App is a fan favorite for its robust features, including live scoring, drive charts, and in-game highlights. However, some users have reported issues with the app’s streaming capabilities, so ensure your device and app are updated for the best experience.

For those who prefer social media, following teams and players on platforms like X can provide real-time updates from fans, analysts, and insiders. Many users share live reactions, scores, and highlights, making it a vibrant community for NFL enthusiasts.

How to Watch NFL Games for Free

Watching NFL games for free can be challenging due to regional blackouts and subscription-based streaming services, but there are several legitimate ways to catch the action without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can watch NFL games for free or at a low cost:

1. Over-the-Air Antenna

One of the most reliable ways to watch NFL games for free is by using a high-quality antenna to access local broadcasts on CBS, FOX, NBC, and ABC. These networks air most Sunday afternoon games, Sunday Night Football, and select primetime matchups. For example, CBS will broadcast over 100 regular-season games in 2025, including key matchups like the Ravens vs. Chiefs in Week 4. To ensure you get the best reception, check the Federal Communications Commission TV reception maps to see which stations are available in your area.

• Pros: Completely free after purchasing an antenna; no subscription required.
• Cons: Limited to games broadcast by local stations; availability depends on your location.

2. Free Trials of Streaming Services

Many streaming platforms offer free trials, which can be stacked to create an extended viewing window for NFL games. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, FuboTV, and Paramount+ typically provide 7-day free trials for new users. These services carry channels like CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, which cover most NFL games. For example, Paramount+ streams all NFL on CBS games, including postseason matchups like the AFC Championship.

• How to Use: Sign up for a trial with one service, watch the games available during that period, and cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges. Move to another service for the next week. Be diligent about canceling to avoid costly subscriptions.
• Tip: FuboTV is particularly popular for sports fans, as it includes CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, though some users have reported streaming issues on certain devices.

3. NFL Channel on Free Platforms

The NFL Channel is a free, 24/7 service available on platforms like Tubi, Roku, Pluto TV, and Peacock. While it doesn’t stream live games, it offers live game-day coverage, including real-time score updates, highlights, and analysis. This is a great option for fans who want to stay informed without paying for a subscription.

4. Free Streaming on Tubi and FOX

For Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025, fans can stream the game live and free in 4K on Tubi or watch it on FOX with a TV provider sign-in. Pregame coverage starts at 2 PM ET, with the game kicking off at 6 PM ET from Caesar’s Superdome in New Orleans. This is a rare opportunity to watch a major NFL event without a subscription, though you’ll need to sign in with a TV provider for FOX streaming.

5. Local Bars and Restaurants

If you don’t have access to an antenna or streaming service, consider visiting a local sports bar or restaurant that broadcasts NFL games. Many establishments show games on CBS, FOX, and NBC, especially during high-profile matchups. This is a cost-effective way to enjoy the game-day atmosphere without paying for a subscription.

6. NFL App and Website

The NFL App and NFL.com offer free access to live game-day coverage, including scores and highlights, though live game streaming requires an NFL+ subscription. NFL+ starts at a low cost and provides access to live out-of-market preseason games and local/primetime games on mobile devices. While not entirely free, it’s an affordable option compared to cable or other streaming services.

Key Platforms for Watching NFL Games

When games resume, here’s a breakdown of the major networks and streaming services that broadcast NFL games, along with their availability:

• CBS: Airs Sunday afternoon games, select postseason games, and the AFC Championship. Stream on Paramount+ or with a local antenna.
• FOX: Covers Sunday afternoon games and select postseason games, including Super Bowl LIX. Stream on FOXSports.com, the FOX Sports App, or Tubi (for the Super Bowl).
• NBC: Broadcasts Sunday Night Football and select postseason games. Stream on Peacock or with an antenna.
• ESPN: Home of Monday Night Football. Stream on ESPN+ or the ESPN App with a pay TV subscription.
• NFL Network: Airs exclusive games, including six international games in 2025 and a Week 17 matchup. Stream via NFL+ or select cable providers.
• Amazon Prime Video: Streams Thursday Night Football. A Prime membership includes these games, with a 30-day free trial available for new users.
• Hulu + Live TV: Offers CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network for $82.99/month after a 3-day free trial. Includes unlimited DVR for recording games.
• YouTube TV: Provides access to CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, with NFL Sunday Ticket available for out-of-market games.

Tips for Avoiding Blackouts

NFL games are subject to regional blackouts, especially out-of-market games. To maximize your viewing options:

• Check Local Listings: Use NFL.com’s personalized schedule tool to see which games are available in your area.
• Use NFL+: For mobile streaming of local and primetime games, NFL+ bypasses some blackout restrictions, though it’s not free.
• Leverage International Games: International games, like those in London or Brazil, are often less restricted and may be available on NFL Network or other platforms.

Upcoming Marquee Matchups to Watch

While there are no games today, the 2025 season is packed with exciting matchups to look forward to. Here are some highlights from the early weeks:

• Week 1: Cowboys vs. Eagles (September 4) – The season kicks off with an NFC East rivalry, with the Eagles defending their Super Bowl title.
• Week 1: Lions vs. Packers (September 7) – A classic NFC North showdown, broadcast on CBS.
• Week 4: Ravens vs. Chiefs (September 28) – A battle of AFC heavyweights featuring Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes.
• Week 5: Vikings vs. Browns (October 5) – One of the international games, played in London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
• Week 9: Commanders vs. Seahawks (November 2) – A primetime Monday Night Football game where the Commanders will retire Hall of Famer Art Monk’s No. 81.

Fantasy Football and Player Updates

For fantasy football enthusiasts, staying updated on player performances is crucial. ESPN’s fantasy football section provides insights into undervalued players and those under scrutiny, such as second-year stars who could shine in 2025. CBS Sports also offers detailed player stats and projections to help you set your lineup. Keep an eye on rookies like Cleveland Browns’ Quinshon Judkins, who recently made headlines, and veterans like Nyheim Hines, who is eyeing a comeback after a knee injury.

Technical Tips for Streaming

To ensure a smooth streaming experience, follow these tips:

• Update Your Apps: Issues like freezing or slow loading on the NFL App or other platforms can often be resolved by updating to the latest version.
• Stable Internet Connection: Streaming HD content requires a high-speed, broadband connection. Check your bandwidth to avoid buffering.
• Device Compatibility: Ensure your device supports the streaming service you’re using. For example, Paramount+ and Hulu + Live TV work on most smartphones, tablets, and connected TVs.

Conclusion

While there are no NFL games today on July 17, 2025, the excitement is building for the upcoming season. By using free resources like over-the-air antennas, free trials of streaming services, and the NFL Channel, you can enjoy NFL action without a hefty price tag. Platforms like ESPN, CBS Sports, and NFL.com will keep you updated with live scores and highlights when games are in session. Prepare for the season by setting up your viewing options, checking local listings, and exploring free trial opportunities. Stay tuned for thrilling matchups, from the season opener to Super Bowl LIX, and never miss a moment of NFL football.