If you’re an NFL fan but don’t have access to ESPN, watching Monday Night Football (MNF) can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, there are several ways to catch all the action without relying on a traditional cable subscription. From streaming services to mobile apps, here are the best ways to enjoy MNF without ESPN.
1. Use a Live TV Streaming Service
Many streaming services offer ESPN as part of their packages, allowing you to watch MNF live without a cable connection.
- Hulu + Live TV: One of the best options for watching MNF is Hulu + Live TV. This service includes ESPN and ABC, so you can catch every MNF game without missing out. It costs about $76.99 per month, and you also get access to Hulu’s extensive on-demand library, Disney+, and ESPN+.
- YouTube TV: With a $72.99 per month subscription, YouTube TV provides access to ESPN, ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. You can stream MNF and other NFL games seamlessly, making it an excellent option for cord-cutters.
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers an affordable way to watch MNF, starting at just $40 per month with the Sling Orange plan. This plan includes ESPN and ESPN2, perfect for catching all MNF matchups. However, if a game airs on ABC, you may need Sling Blue, which covers ABC in select markets.
- FuboTV: Although FuboTV initially focused on soccer, it now offers a robust lineup for NFL fans, including ESPN, ABC, and the NFL Network. The service is priced around $79.99 monthly but frequently runs promotions like $30 off your first month. With FuboTV, you can watch MNF and more than 200 other live channels.
2. Watch on ABC for Select Games
In recent years, ABC has simulcast some MNF games, providing another way to watch for free if you can access local ABC stations through an antenna or a live TV streaming service. ABC typically broadcasts a handful of Monday Night Football games each season. If you don’t want to invest in ESPN or other streaming services, this is a solid alternative for occasional access to MNF.
3. NFL+ Mobile App
If you don’t mind watching the game on a smaller screen, the NFL+ app offers a budget-friendly way to stream MNF games live on your phone or tablet. With plans starting at $6.99 per month, NFL+ allows you to stream local and primetime games, including MNF, on mobile devices. However, this option only works on mobile screens, so it’s best for on-the-go watching.
4. Use Free Trials and Discounts
Several streaming platforms offer free trials that allow you to watch MNF without paying upfront. For example:
- FuboTV and YouTube TV offer short-term free trials for new subscribers. You can sign up, watch MNF games for free during the trial period, and cancel before the subscription renews if you don’t want to pay.
- Hulu + Live TV also has occasional free trials, though they may be shorter in duration than those from FuboTV or YouTube TV.
5. Amazon Prime Video (For Thursday Night Football)
Although Amazon Prime Video is primarily the home for Thursday Night Football, it’s worth mentioning that this service is a great supplementary option for NFL fans. If you already have Prime Video, you can watch Thursday Night Football at no extra cost, helping you catch even more NFL action throughout the season.
6. Use VPNs for International Streams
In some regions outside the United States, MNF is available on different platforms. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows you to access international streaming options that might carry MNF. While this can technically work, keep in mind the legal and ethical implications of bypassing geo-restrictions.
Missing ESPN doesn’t mean missing out on Monday Night Football. With options like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV, you can enjoy every game without a cable subscription. Whether you opt for a free trial, stick to mobile viewing via NFL+, or rely on ABC’s simulcasts, there are many ways to keep up with your favorite NFL teams this season without ESPN. By exploring these options, you can find the best fit for your needs and budget while ensuring you never miss a game.
