The NFL consistently drives the highest betting volume of any U.S. sport, with millions of wagers placed every season. That level of demand pushes competition among sportsbooks, but only a few stand out as the best NFL sports betting sites worth your time.
Last updated: 4 August 2025, 02:07PM
21+ Please Gamble Responsibly. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER On this page, you’ll learn how to start betting, compare NFL sportsbooks, explore bet types, and get expert strategies for sharper decisions before kickoff. So if you're ready to stop punting and start converting, check out our top NFL online sportsbooks below.
We don’t just pick NFL sports betting sites at random. Our team follows a structured review process to find sportsbooks that actually deliver value to football fans. From app usability to betting features and odds, here’s what we focus on when ranking the top platforms.
Before we even check the odds, we check the license. If a site isn’t fully approved by the state and uses up-to-date encryption, it doesn’t make our list. Legal sportsbooks follow strict protocols for data safety, payout handling, and fraud prevention. Anything less opens the door to risk, and that’s not something we’re willing to gamble on.
NFL games move fast, and your app should be able to keep up. This is why we test how well each mobile app handles live betting, especially during high-traffic windows like Sunday afternoons or primetime matches. Platforms with responsive design and clutter-free UI naturally rank higher.
Some promos sound like they’re built for the NFL but aren’t really, just generic offers slapped onto Sunday games. The best NFL sportsbooks actually build around the league calendar, and we look for deals like risk-free bets, profit boosts, and parlay insurance during the playoffs or on primetime games. These offers should apply directly to NFL markets and provide real, usable value, not just marketing fluff.
Next, we check how soon sportsbooks release weekly spreads, totals, and player props. Sites that consistently post lines before Sunday night or Monday morning have a competitive edge, especially for bettors who like to plan ahead. Platforms like Caesars Sportsbook and FanDuel are often among the first to post weekly NFL odds, sometimes minutes after the previous game wraps.
A great NFL sportsbook gives bettors multiple angles into every match, from coin toss bets to defensive stats. The more variety, the more control bettors have over their strategy. We examine how many bet types are available, player props, alt lines, team totals, quarter-by-quarter results, and more.
Odds determine your potential profit, so we compare spreads, totals, and moneylines across major sportsbooks weekly. Even a half-point difference or +5 to +10 in odds can matter over time. We highlight sites that consistently offer competitive NFL odds so that serious bettors get the most value on every bet.
Lastly, we check how each sportsbook handles live NFL action. Quick line updates, smooth interfaces, and tools like ESPN Bet’s win probability bar or team drive data make all the difference when you're placing wagers play-by-play.
It doesn't matter if you’re a new or seasoned bettor; understanding how to bet on NFL games is super simple. Just follow these steps to place your first wager with ease:
1. Choose a Licensed Sportsbook
First up, you need to choose an NFL betting site that’s licensed in your state and regulated by an official gaming authority. The best way to do that is by browsing the list on this page.
2. Register and Verify Your Account
Next, sign up by providing your legal name, address, and the last four digits of your SSN. Most NFL online sportsbooks will also verify your location using geolocation tools to confirm you're in a legal betting area.
3. Claim Your NFL Sign-Up Bonus
After registering, check for available NFL-specific welcome bonuses. You may need to enter a promo code or opt in during your first deposit or bet. Always read the terms before you act.
4. Understand the Types of NFL Bets
Before betting, learn how point spreads, moneylines, totals, and props work. This basic knowledge of NFL markets will help you make smarter bets and avoid confusion.
5. Fund Your Account
Now, choose a trusted payment method and deposit an amount that fits your weekly or seasonal betting budget. It’s best to treat deposits like entertainment spending, not investment capital.
6. Start with Simple Bets
Start with basic wagers after deciding the NFL games or players you want to bet on, before exploring live bets or parlays.
There’s more to smart NFL betting than picking a team to win. The best betting websites offer dozens of options, and knowing the basics will help you avoid any missteps. Here is a breakdown of popular NFL bet types available in the market:
NFL moneyline betting is all about picking the winner. If the Jets are +180 against the Bills, a $100 bet wins $180 if the Jets pull off the upset. Whereas, if the Bills are -210, you’d need to wager $210 just to profit $100.
This bet type is popular with newer bettors because it's straightforward. However, backing heavy favourites means a higher risk for lower reward. Make sure to compare odds across NFL betting sites to avoid leaving value on the table.
A close game isn’t always close on the odds board. Let's say the Eagles are -3.5 against the Cowboys. For that bet to win, Philadelphia must win by at least four points.
Spread betting is a top bet type in the market and favours those who follow game plans and team performance trends throughout the week. It keeps betting lines competitive, even between mismatched NFL teams.
With Totals, also called NFL over/under bets, the sportsbook sets a projected combined score, and you decide whether the final number will go over or under. If the total for the New York Giants vs. the Cleveland Browns is 42.5, and the game ends 24–20, the Over hits.
It's especially useful when two high-powered offences or strong defences face off, and can be impacted by weather, pace of play, and team styles.
Parlays allow bettors to combine multiple bets into a single ticket for a larger potential payout. However, every leg of the parlay must win for the bet to cash. For instance, combining Dolphins -2.5, Over 45 in Packers vs Vikings, and Seahawks to win into a $10 parlay might return around $65 if all three are correct. Teasers, meanwhile, adjust the spread or total in your favour, but reduce the payout.
Many football betting sites offer parlay odds boosters, but a strong record in single bets doesn’t guarantee parlay success.
NFL Player props, or proposition bets, focus on individual performance rather than final scores. Bettors can target specific stats like total rushing yards, completions, or even whether a wide receiver scores a touchdown. For example, placing a wager on Christian McCaffrey to score anytime means he must reach the end zone at least once.
These bets have gained popularity, especially among fantasy players who already track individual stats. While they offer variety and entertainment, it’s important to compare prices across the best NFL betting sites for value.
Betting weeks or months ahead can offer bigger payouts if you're patient. The NFL futures bets market includes options like MVP winner, division champions, or the winner of the Super Bowl. A $100 wager on the Lions at +1200 to win it all returns $1,200 if they get it done.
These bets reward punters with foresight and a strong understanding of squad depth, schedules, or trends before the public catches on.
Live NFL betting gives players the chance to capitalize on shifting momentum. A slow start by the favourites might shift odds, which are affected by every possession, injury, or turnover mid-game. While NFL betting sites offer exciting opportunities like betting on adjusted spreads or reacting to injury news, any lag or hesitation from your side can turn a winning edge into a missed chance.
Once you’re familiar with the most common betting markets, the next step is understanding the incentives NFL sportsbooks offer around them. From first-bet insurance to Super Bowl betting promos, you will find plenty of options at the best betting websites with the NFL. Below are the most common types of bonuses you’ll come across:
A typical welcome offer at NFL online bookies will match your first deposit or hand you free bets after placing a small bet. FanDuel, for example, has offered $150 in bonus bets for a $5 NFL wager. Since there’s no need to risk a huge amount, this promo is ideal for both seasoned and casual bettors. New customers at DraftKings can also claim the NFL Sunday Ticket promo, offering over $200 off!
The Super Bowl is the busiest time of year for sportsbooks, and with that comes a wave of unique betting offers. Nearly every NFL betting site launches exclusive offers like no-sweat bets, boosted props, or Super Bowl betting promos with your first bet. In 2024, for example, Caesars sportsbook boosted the payout on the coin toss market.
Some NFL betting promos can multiply your potential return by adding a payout bonus to multi-leg bets. These bonuses and betting promos often increase your payout by a set percentage. For example, DraftKings has increased the odds on three-leg NFL parlays by up to 33%, particularly for Sunday matches.
Not every first bet is successful, and that’s where Second-Chance NFL Bets come in. These promotions serve as a safety net that refunds your initial wager if it loses, in the form of free bets or bonus credit. BetMGM has run offers like “$1,000 First Bet Insurance” on NFL spreads. Just keep in mind, any refunded amount usually expires quickly and must be wagered.
Top NFL sports betting sites also roll out mobile-exclusive promos to encourage app usage. These app-only NFL offers might include match-based promos, live bet bonuses, or boosted NFL odds, available only through the sportsbook’s app. To redeem them, bettors typically need to log in on mobile and opt in before placing a qualifying bet.
The convenience of mobile sports betting apps is hard to match, with nearly 85% of U.S. wagers now placed on smartphones and tablets. Most NFL betting platforms have dedicated apps for both Android and iOS, making it easy to bet anytime, anywhere. You can download them from the App Store, Google Play, or directly from the operator’s site.
Once installed, simply log in or create an account to explore markets on your favorite teams. The best NFL apps offer quick refresh rates and a clear layout optimized for single-handed use, making it ideal for fast-moving Sunday action.
Most legal NFL sports betting apps are licensed to operate in over 30 US states, including New York, Illinois, and Colorado. These sportsbook apps must comply with local gaming regulations, which not only authorize them to take bets but also ensure basic protections for users.
Additionally, the top football betting apps include important safety features like two-factor authentication, SSL encryption, and secure payment systems. With 24/7 live support and clear terms, users can wager confidently in a safe environment.
Features in the best NFL betting sites:
Live betting
Cash‑out functionality
Push notifications
2FA login
Match‑based promos
In‑app bonus tracking
Betting on the NFL isn’t limited to weekly games. Here is an overview of some of the major NFL events that appeal to a wide range of U.S. sports bettors:
The NFL season ends with one of the most-viewed events in the U.S, also known as the Super Bowl. Played each year on the second Sunday in February, it features the winners from the AFC and NFC conferences, with over 123 million viewers tuning in. Super Bowl betting goes far beyond the basics, covering props like MVP picks, halftime performances, and coin toss outcomes. During this period, the best football betting sites offer enhanced odds and mobile-specific bonuses tailored for the big game.
Starting with the Wild Card Round in January, the NFL Playoffs move through the Divisional Round and end at the Conference Championship, which determines who goes to the Super Bowl. US bettors favor this stage for its intensity and variety of markets, including team futures, prop bets, and live odds. Every game is high stakes, which means live betting becomes especially popular during this part of the postseason.
Primetime games during the NFL regular season provide 48 standalone matches between September and early January. These are intense clashes between the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC) teams, which attract focused bets on the NFL, including live props and parlays. The best NFL betting sites highlight them with enhanced odds, player prop boosts, and game-specific offers.
Following the regular season, US bettors shift their attention to the NFL draft for postseason betting action. Taking place in late April, this event focuses on college football players entering the league, with betting options that include the first overall pick, over/unders on player draft positions, and team-specific selections. At the same time, offseason futures open up, accepting wagers on team performances long before the new season kicks off.
Held each August, preseason games serve as a testing ground where teams evaluate strategies and test new players. This popular betting event gives NFL bettors a chance to wager on moneylines, totals, and team performance before the regular season kicks off.
The NFL is divided into two conferences and eight divisions. Each division has its own rhythm, strengths, and surprises that shape the strategy of US bettors. Here’s a breakdown of every AFC and NFC division:
The AFC East features four teams, and it’s a division where historic franchises and rising contenders keep things interesting for bettors. With the Buffalo Bills dominating the top spot and the Dolphins regularly pushing for playoffs, futures and weekly odds often reflect recent form and key injuries.
Divisional games here are known for causing surprising shifts in spreads, especially when a rebuilding team like the Patriots or Jets upsets a favourite. If you are looking to bet on team props or close matches, keep an eye out for coaching changes and quarterback health.
Housing teams from Baltimore, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Pittsburgh, the AFC North stands out for its famous rivalries and frequent playoff drama. Teams like the Bengals and Ravens drive a lot of attention, with matches known for unpredictable scoring and tight spreads
This division has more focus on physical play and strong defence, which means low-scoring games are common, making under bets popular late in the season. Since the odds change a lot, you will get plenty of chances to bet on futures and live games too.
Known for its history of being unpredictable and highly fluctuating points table, the southern division makes it both tricky and rewarding for NFL bettors. Although Jacksonville’s recent improvement in form has brought new life to the division, overall consistency is still hard to find. Instead of jumping on futures, many bettors prefer to approach this division on a week-to-week basis.
First-half lines and team totals tend to be more reliable indicators than full-game outcomes.
Blockbuster high-scoring matches are the highlight of the Western Division, especially with all the offensive star power in teams. With Patrick Mahomes leading the Chiefs and Justin Herbert making headlines in Los Angeles, the offensive talent in this division draws a lot of attention from bettors looking at game totals and touchdown scorer props. Keeping track of late-breaking news, particularly with quarterbacks and skill position players, can especially give you an edge.
No division draws as much national attention or betting volume as the NFC East. It features the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, two NFL powerhouses with massive followings and strong playoff potential. These matches are ideal for betting on point spreads, rivalry game props, and division title futures. While the Giants and Commanders don’t challenge for the title, they can surprise with really tight matches, especially late in the year.
A well-balanced mix of big legacy teams and emerging contenders makes the Northern division a hotspot for strategic bettors. With the Packers, Lions, and Vikings often battling for the top spot, NFL bettors engage in win totals and season-long future bets. The chilling weather conditions, late in the season, at places like Chicago and Green Bay can impact scoring, which creates opportunities for unders, field goal props, and tighter spreads.
The NFC West, with its four teams, has remained competitive thanks to consistent playoff contenders like the 49ers, Rams, and Seahawks. These franchises often play smart, physical football, which keeps their games tight and the betting markets active. It's a go-to division for bettors who understand the tactical side of the game and want to bet on NFC Championship futures or back injury-adjusted mid-season trends.
There is no clear dominating force within the Southern division, which makes it a strong pick for underdog bettors. Teams like the Panthers, Falcons, Bucs, and Saints can surprise or disappoint in any given week, which keeps NFL bettors on their toes. That leads to early-week betting opportunities, especially in totals and player props.
Rather than targeting season-long markets, many bettors prefer to analyse matchup-based trends or take advantage of inconsistent quarterback play across the division.
NFL betting is legal in many states across the US. However, each state sets its own minimum age for placing bets, which is usually 18 or 21. Scroll through the list below to see if your state permits it:
State | Legal Betting Age |
Arizona | 21 |
Arkansas | 21 |
Colorado | 21 |
Connecticut | 21 |
Delaware | 21 |
Florida | 21 |
Illinois | 21 |
Indiana | 21 |
Iowa | 21 |
Kansas | 21 |
Kentucky | 18 |
Louisiana | 21 |
Maine | 21 |
Maryland | 21 |
Massachusetts | 21 |
Michigan | 21 |
Mississippi (retail only) | 21 |
Montana (retail only) | 18 |
Nebraska (retail only) | 21 |
Nevada | 21 |
New Hampshire | 18 |
New Jersey | 21 |
New Mexico (retail only) | 21 |
New York | 21 |
North Carolina | 21 |
North Dakota (retail only) | 21 |
Ohio | 21 |
Oregon | 21 |
Pennsylvania | 21 |
Rhode Island | 18 |
South Dakota (retail only) | 21 |
Tennessee | 21 |
Virginia | 21 |
Vermont | 21 |
Washington (retail only) | 18 |
Washington D.C. | 18 |
West Virginia | 21 |
Wisconsin (retail only) | 21 |
Wyoming | 18 |
Betting on the NFL can be profitable overtime, but requires consistency and a well thought out approach. Whether you’re just starting or have experience placing bets, understanding effective strategies will help you read between the lines. Here are some of the best NFL betting strategies that experienced bettors pay attention to each week:
Betting emotionally is one of the oldest mistakes, and it does come back to haunt you. While it may feel satisfying to bet against a rival or in favour of your home team, these wagers often lack the edge. Smart NFL bettors rely on logic instead of loyalty and so should you. Make use of NFL betting tools to analyze the squad depth and tactical side of a match in order to make profitable NFL picks.
When betting on the NFL, weather is a highly underrated factor that can drive NFL best bets. Bad weather conditions, like rain, snow, or heavy wind, can dramatically affect the game’s flow and player performances. For instance, wet fields often reduce passing yards and increase reliance on the run game. Keep an eye out for the field type as well, since it can influence the kicking accuracy and deep throws.
Fatigue is real in the NFL, and it shows up in back-to-back away games or following tough matches. Teams returning from a break often perform better physically and mentally. A tired defence playing its third game in 12 days will play slower, even if it's star-studded. Smart bettors use NFL betting tools to analyse the calendar and schedule spots when evaluating their NFL picks strategy.
Some teams historically outperform specific rivals due to better coaching or playstyle advantages. While past results don’t guarantee positive outcomes, head-to-head trends reveal patterns that sportsbooks consider in NFL betting analysis. Bettors can use head-to-head data alongside live odds to make more accurate and profitable NFL bets.
If you want to make successful NFL bets, try to understand the positional battles between the offensive and defensive line players. A strong defensive front can pressure quarterbacks into making mistakes, changing the tempo and score line. The best bettors don’t just look at statistics; they dig into the details. These evaluations are often part of NFL betting strategies that pay in the long run.
Not every NFL online sportsbook offers the same odds or lines. Shopping early and keeping an eye on lines that are affected by injuries or public bets during the week can significantly boost your long-term ROI. Waiting for favourable shifts before placing a wager is one of the most consistent profitable NFL betting strategies without increasing the risk.
Watching how a game shapes up live opens real-time betting opportunities. You can adjust your strategy based on injuries, momentum swings, or weather conditions. Seasoned bettors see it as an opportunity and use live betting on NFL games or in-game hedging to protect early bets or lock in gains. This approach requires quick decision-making but can significantly improve profitability.
Understanding the NFL overtime rules, where a first possession touchdown can end the game, is critical for late-game wagers, especially when betting on totals or moneyline outcomes.. Always factor in the overtime rule If you're using an NFL sportsbook site or app to bet on tight matchups or live lines.
If you’re interested in NFL betting, there has never been a better time to start. The best NFL online sportsbooks provide an enjoyable betting experience, with user-friendly apps, reliable security, and exciting promotions for every style of bettor. From boosted odds during the NFL Draft to Super Bowl bonuses, US punters are primed for serious football action.
Of course while there is more choice and innovation, its important to be selective. Not every site offers the same depth or features, so taking time to compare is always worth it especially if online NFL betting is legal in your state.
To help you get started, we’ve handpicked the best sports betting sites offering competitive NFL odds across all major markets. Pick you favorite site and step into the new season with confidence.
While sports betting is indeed legal in over 30 states in the US, some states provide different rules and terms regarding betting on the NFL Draft. Below you can find out which states allow this, and where you can bet on it.
Arizona*
Arkansas
Colorado
Delaware
Florida
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa*
Kansas
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts**
Michigan**
Mississippi
Montana
Nebraska***
Nevada*
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico***
North Carolina**
Ohio
Oregon
Tennessee**
Washington***
Washington D.C.
West Virginia*
Wisconsin***
Wyoming
* No live or in-play betting on the draft
** Extra rules added regarding live draft betting
*** Draft betting only available at tribal casinos that offer draft betting
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