NFL Betting

Author
Author

Brent Booher

Published: Sep 10, 2025
Author
Fact Checker

Sadonna Price

Updated: Sep 10, 2025

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NFL betting is one of the most popular ways to engage with America’s game, and today’s online sportsbooks give fans more options than ever. From competitive odds and creative promos to mobile apps that let you bet from anywhere, the experience has evolved far beyond picking winners on Sundays.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about betting on the NFL in 2025 — including how betting lines work, strategies for smarter play, and our picks for the best sites offering trusted odds, bonuses, and fast payouts.

Best NFL Betting Sites September 2025

Our team has thoroughly tested and compared a wide range of legal operators to identify the best NFL betting sites available in the US. We evaluated each platform across key factors like welcome offers, NFL odds strength, live betting features, and banking convenience. 

Every site that makes our list stands out in its own way — from tailored promos for football fans to advanced mobile apps and deep market coverage. Whether you’re new to betting or a seasoned player looking for sharper lines, these NFL-focused platforms deliver a premium experience for every type of bettor.

  • DraftKings Sportsbook – Top Pick for Small-Bankroll Players
  • bet365 Sportsbook – Best Choice for International Odds Hunters
  • Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook – Simplest Layout for New NFL Bettors
  • FanDuel Sportsbook – Best App for On-the-Go Betting
  • Caesars Sportsbook – Most Creative NFL Betting Options
  • BetMGM Sportsbook – Best Rewards for Returning Players

DraftKings Sportsbook – Top Pick for Small-Bankroll Players

Draftkings Sportsbook logo

DraftKings Sportsbook has become one of the most recognized operators in the US, especially for players who want to start small. With only a $5 deposit, new bettors unlock $200 in bonus credits regardless of the outcome of their first wager. 

This makes it an excellent entry point for anyone looking to explore NFL betting without a big upfront commitment. The platform also delivers broad market coverage and a polished mobile app that keeps live and pre-game betting smooth and accessible.

Pros

  • Loyalty program (Dynasty Rewards) plus parlay insurance for frequent players
  • Smooth, feature-rich mobile app with Same-Game Parlays and cash-out options
  • Fast payouts to e-wallets like PayPal and Venmo, often within 24–72 hours

Cons

  • Successful bettors may face account restrictions or lower limits
  • No search function on the desktop site for quick navigation
Welcome PromoNew Customers: Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly AND Over $200 Off NFL Sunday Ticket!
Legal StatesAZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, WY.
Mobile AppiOS and Android
Best Feature$5 minimum deposit (perfect for beginners or budgeted players)

bet365 – Best Value for Global Sports Fans

Bet365 logo

Bet365 Sportsbook has quickly built a strong reputation in the US by delivering a polished betting platform with flexible welcome offers. New players enjoy $300 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose when you bet $5.

Known globally for sharp lines, bet365 covers all the major US sports while also excelling in international markets like soccer, tennis, and golf. Odds boosts are a standout feature, giving bettors enhanced payouts on popular matchups and parlays. The site and mobile app are clean, intuitive, and built for quick navigation, whether you’re placing a simple moneyline bet or building a complex parlay.

Pros

  • Deep in-play markets with live streaming and same-game parlays
  • Fast withdrawals via e-wallets and Bet365 Mastercard
  • 24/7 customer support with multiple help channels

Cons

  • Limited availability in major US states
  • No loyalty or VIP rewards program
Welcome Promo $300 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose when you bet $5
Legal StatesAZ, CO, KY, IA, IN, LA, NJ, NC, OH, PA, VA
Mobile AppiOS and Android
Best FeatureOdds boosts for various sports markets.

Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook – Simplest Layout for New NFL Bettors

hard rock sportsbook logo

Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook keeps things simple, prioritizing a clean layout that makes it easy for new bettors to get started. Trending markets, boosts, and promos are displayed upfront, reducing the need to search for betting options. 

Its welcome deal refunds up to $100 if your first bet doesn’t hit, offering a helpful safety net for new users. While the design is approachable, experienced bettors may find the platform lacking in advanced tools or expansive features.

Pros

  • Fast, easy-to-use mobile app with live betting and cash-out
  • Hard Rock Rewards integration for real-world perks
  • Wide parlay options including Same-Game and Flex Parlays

Cons

  • No live streaming for games
  • Limited availability across US states
Welcome PromoUp to $100 Back if your First Bet Doesn’t Win
Legal StatesAZ, IA, FL, OH, NJ
Mobile AppiOS and Android
Best FeatureEasy-to-use platform

FanDuel Sportsbook – Best App for On-the-Go Betting

fan duel sportsbook

FanDuel Sportsbook is widely regarded as one of the best mobile betting platforms in the US, with strong ratings across both iOS and Android. The app delivers a fast, reliable live betting experience and provides access to competitive odds across all major NFL markets. 

New players can claim a  Bet $5 Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins!, while seasoned bettors benefit from deep market coverage and live streaming of select events.

Pros

  • Unified platform for sports, casino, and fantasy
  • Highly rated mobile app with smooth design and speed
  • Wide market coverage with Same-Game Parlays and live streaming
  • Referral bonus for bringing in new players

Cons

  • No phone-based customer support
  • Teaser bets often priced less favorably
Welcome Promo Bet $5 Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins!
Legal StatesAZ, CO, CT, DC, IL, KS, KY, LA, IN, IA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY
Mobile AppiOS and Android
Best FeatureQuality mobile app services.

Caesars Sportsbook – Most Creative NFL Betting Options

Caesar's Sportsbook Logo

Caesars Sportsbook is known for introducing unique bet formats that set it apart from traditional operators. Options like Quick Picks and Money Moonshots add variety and keep things fresh for NFL bettors. Its welcome package provides Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 20 Bets, while more than 25 sports markets and integrated streaming make it a versatile option. 

The odds themselves can be hit or miss compared to rivals, but the creativity in betting markets makes Caesars a standout.

Pros

  • Daily odds boosts with competitive lines
  • Smooth, intuitive app design with clean navigation
  • Live NFL streaming with solid in-play betting

Cons

  • Interface can feel cluttered
  • Odds on props not always the sharpest
Welcome PromoBet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 20 Bets
Legal StatesAZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV
Mobile AppiOS and Android
Best FeatureUnique betting formats

BetMGM Sportsbook – Best Rewards for Returning Players

BETMGM - Logo with a lion and sports.

BetMGM Sportsbook has built a reputation for consistent promotions that appeal to both new and long-term players. The welcome package includes Second Chance Bet Up To $1,500 offering a generous cushion for first-time wagers. 

NFL fans will also appreciate the breadth of markets and pre-built parlays, which make jumping into the action fast and simple. While withdrawals can sometimes take longer than average, BetMGM’s steady rollout of new promos ensures players always have reasons to stay engaged.

Pros

  • “Edit My Bet” tool for live wager adjustments
  • Seamless integration with MGM Rewards for real-world perks
  • Broad sports coverage with exclusive NFL markets

Cons

  • App can feel cluttered for beginners
  • Verification may slow first withdrawals
Welcome PromoSecond Chance Bet Up To $1,500
Legal StatesAZ, CO, DC, IN, IA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
Mobile AppiOS and Android
Best FeaturePremium Existing Player Promotions

How We Rank NFL Betting Sites

As fans of the game ourselves, we know NFL betting isn’t just about placing wagers – it’s about finding the sharpest odds, the deepest markets, and the smoothest overall experience. 

Our methodology is built around evaluating each operator with NFL bettors in mind, ensuring you have the tools you need to enjoy every snap, drive, and game of the season. Below, we highlight the core areas we consider when reviewing NFL betting sites.

Best NFL Odds & Lines

Odds and lines are the backbone of football betting. A small difference in pricing can make a major impact on long-term profits. We compare spreads, totals, and moneyline odds across top betting sites to see who consistently delivers the best value. For example, finding -107 instead of -110 on the Jets’ spread may seem minor, but it adds up over the course of a season.

Depth of Markets

NFL betting isn’t just about picking winners — it’s about variety. The best betting sites go far beyond basic spreads and totals, offering props, alternate lines, and player markets. We look for platforms that provide multiple moneyline and spread variations per game, strong coverage of NFL futures, and even crossover strength as college football betting destinations.

Live Betting

In-play wagering has become a cornerstone of NFL betting. The ability to jump in mid-drive or hedge a pre-game bet adds excitement and strategy. We examine how betting sites handle live action — from the number of in-play markets offered to the speed of odds updates. Features like live streaming, instant stats, and multi-view interfaces help separate the best from the rest.

Welcome Bonus

A strong welcome bonus can give you a boost when signing up, but fairness matters more than size. We analyze NFL betting bonuses for transparency, realistic rollover requirements, and minimal restrictions. Offers with 10x wagering or less, low deposit minimums, and no hidden terms get our top marks. The goal is simple: make sure you actually have a chance to turn a bonus into real cash.

Best Banking Options

Getting money on and off a betting site should be quick, safe, and inexpensive. We prioritize operators that support trusted methods like debit/credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers, as well as sites that embrace fast crypto payouts. Zero or low fees on deposits and withdrawals are essential, and we only recommend platforms that process payments reliably.

Licensing & Safety

Security is non-negotiable. NFL betting sites must operate with proper licensing and be held accountable to regulatory standards. We confirm that each site uses SSL encryption, offers secure banking, and protects player data. Only licensed, regulated operators make our list, so you can bet with confidence knowing your information is safe.

NFL-Specific Bonuses

Because football dominates the U.S. betting scene, many operators offer promos tailored to the NFL season. These include odds boosts, parlay insurance, and team-specific specials. While not every betting site excels in every promotion, we highlight the ones that consistently go above and beyond for NFL fans.

How to Choose the Best NFL Betting Site for You

Finding the right NFL sportsbook isn’t about what looks “best” on paper — it’s about what fits you. Every bettor approaches the game differently, and your habits, budget, and preferences will shape which site delivers the best experience. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before signing up.

What Kind of NFL Experience Do You Want?

Not every bettor approaches the NFL with the same mindset. Some enjoy the thrill of a quick wager on a Sunday kickoff, where convenience and instant results matter most. Others prefer a long-term strategy — tracking line movements all season, studying stats, and building futures tickets that play out over months.

If you lean toward quick and casual action, look for a betting site that emphasizes simple bet slips, easy deposits, and straightforward promos. If you’re more of a strategist, you’ll likely want an operator that goes deeper, offering extensive prop markets, flexible parlay builders, and tools for analyzing games in real time.

Does the Banking Setup Work for You?

Payment methods aren’t glamorous, but they can make a huge difference. Some bettors are fine with debit and credit cards, while others want instant e-wallet transfers or same-day crypto payouts. Think about what matters most: speed, security, or flexibility. A site that pays out quickly and doesn’t bury you in fees is always worth prioritizing.

How Do You Approach NFL Betting? 

It’s not just about the size of your bankroll — it’s about how often and how boldly you like to wager. If you prefer to place the occasional low-risk bet on a Sunday game, look for sportsbooks that allow smaller stakes, keep promos simple, and don’t pressure you into high-volume play. If you’re more active, placing bets week after week, or enjoy taking on risk with larger parlays and futures, then you’ll want a site that offers higher betting limits, ongoing reload bonuses, and rewards programs that give back to frequent players.

What Extra Features Do You Value?

Once the essentials are covered, it comes down to preferences. Do you want a site that streams NFL games so you can watch and bet at the same time? Are loyalty rewards or crossover perks with casinos important to you? Maybe you care most about the quality of the mobile app if you’ll be betting from the couch or the stadium. Identifying your “must-have” features will help you filter good sportsbooks from the ones that just don’t fit.

NFL Betting Lines

In the NFL, betting lines don’t just show who’s favored and by how much — they also tell a story. Lines shift during the week as sportsbooks react to injuries, weather, and where the money is going. A game that opens with a team favored by 3 points might move to 4.5 by kickoff, changing the value for both sides.

Smart bettors pay close attention to these movements. Knowing when to lock in a number — whether it’s a spread, total, or moneyline price — can be the difference between a winning ticket and a push. That’s why NFL betting lines are considered the foundation of football wagering strategy.

Different Types of NFL Bets You’ll Find Online

NFL betting offers far more variety than simply picking winners and losers. Modern sportsbooks give players dozens of ways to get action on a game, whether you prefer straightforward wagers or more creative options. These options are part of the wider world of betting, where similar markets and strategies can be found across other sports as well.

Here are some of the most popular bet types you’ll encounter when betting on pro football:

NFL Money Lines

Moneyline betting is the most straightforward way to wager on NFL games: you’re simply picking which team will win. Each side is assigned odds that show both the favorite and the underdog:

  • Favorites carry negative odds (e.g., –150), meaning you’d need to bet $150 to win $100.
  • Underdogs carry positive odds (e.g., +130), meaning a $100 bet would return $130 if they win outright.

NFL Parlays and Teasers

  • NFL Parlays combine two or more bets into one ticket for a bigger payout, but every leg must win for the bet to cash.
  • Teasers are a type of parlay that let you shift spreads or totals by a set number of points, making each leg easier to hit but reducing the overall payout.

Both options are popular in NFL betting, especially for players who like to mix multiple games or build creative tickets around a single slate.

NFL Futures

Futures are long-term bets on season outcomes, not single games. Popular markets include:

  • Super Bowl or conference champions
  • Division winners
  • Player awards like MVP or Rookie of the Year

These wagers lock up your money for weeks or months but often deliver higher payouts for bettors who spot value early.

NFL Prop Bets

Proposition bets, or props, focus on outcomes within the game rather than the final score. They generally fall into three categories:

  • Player props: passing yards, rushing touchdowns, receptions
  • Team props: first team to score, total sacks, margin of victory
  • Event props: novelty wagers tied to big games, like Super Bowl halftime or coin toss markets

Props are especially popular during marquee matchups, offering dozens of extra ways to stay engaged beyond just the scoreboard.

NFL Against the Spreads

Spread betting evens the playing field by giving the favorite a handicap and the underdog a head start.

Example:

  • Cowboys –6.5 → must win by 7+ points to cover
  • Giants +6.5 → cashes if they win outright or lose by 6 or fewer

Betting against the spread is one of the most popular ways to wager on NFL games, as it balances matchups and creates value even when the outcome feels predictable.

NFL Live Betting

Live betting (in-play) lets you place wagers after kickoff, with odds updating in real time as the game unfolds.

Common live markets include:

  • Next team to score
  • Updated spreads and totals
  • Player props adjusted mid-game

Many sportsbooks enhance this feature with live stats, on-screen graphics, and even streaming, giving bettors more ways to react to momentum swings or hedge pregame positions.

Specialty NFL Markets

Some sportsbooks go beyond standard wagers with creative, football-specific markets. These can include:

  • Exact final score predictions
  • First touchdown scorer
  • Winning margin ranges (e.g., win by 1–6 points)
  • Player milestones such as 100+ rushing yards

These markets aren’t always available for every matchup, but they’re especially popular during the playoffs and the Super Bowl, offering high-risk, high-reward opportunities..

NFL Betting Tips and Tricks

There isn’t a single blueprint for NFL betting success. Every bettor develops their own approach, but there are a handful of habits and strategies that consistently separate smart players from the rest. Below are some proven ways to sharpen your game.

Use NFL Predictions as a Guide, Not Gospel 🔮📊

Expert picks, betting models, and media predictions can be useful tools — but they shouldn’t replace your own judgment. Treat them as another piece of information in your decision-making process, not the final word. Cross-check predictions against injury reports, recent team form, and line movement. If everyone seems to be piling on the same side, pause and ask whether the value is already gone. The smartest bettors use predictions to spark ideas, not dictate their entire card.

Shop the Numbers Across Sportsbooks 🛒📈

A half-point here or there might not sound like much, but in the NFL it can make or break your weekend. Key numbers like 3, 6, and 7 come up frequently in final scores, so finding the right line matters. By holding accounts at multiple sportsbooks, you can compare odds and grab the most favorable version. For example, betting -2.5 instead of -3 can turn a push into a win. Small differences add up over a full season.

Pick Your Spots Carefully  🎯🔍

Not every matchup deserves your money. Nationally televised games like Sunday or Monday Night Football attract massive betting volume, which means the lines are sharper and tougher to beat. Don’t bet just because the game is popular or everyone’s talking about it. Focus on matchups where you’ve done the research and spotted an edge — sometimes the best value lies in less-hyped games.

Manage Your Bankroll Like a Pro 💰🧮

Even the best handicappers lose plenty of bets over a season. What keeps them afloat is discipline. Set aside a fixed amount of money for NFL betting and never stake more than a small fraction (often 2–5%) on a single play. This ensures that one bad beat — or even a string of them — won’t wipe you out. Football is volatile by nature, so protecting your bankroll is just as important as picking winners.

Stay Disciplined After Losses 🧘‍♂️🚫

Losing streaks happen to everyone. The worst mistake you can make is chasing losses by suddenly doubling your bet sizes or betting on games you didn’t plan for. Stick to your usual staking plan and keep your approach steady, even when you’re frustrated. NFL betting is a marathon, not a sprint, and emotional decisions usually lead to bigger losses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are NFL betting lines?

NFL betting lines show how oddsmakers price each game, including moneylines (who wins), point spreads (margin of victory), and totals (combined points). They move throughout the week based on injuries, betting action, and other factors.

How do NFL point spreads work?

A spread gives the favorite a points handicap and the underdog a points advantage. For example, if the Eagles are –6.5 against the Bears, Philadelphia must win by 7+ points to cover. The Bears cover if they win outright or lose by 6 or fewer.

What’s the difference between a moneyline and a spread bet in the NFL?

A moneyline bet is simply picking which team wins the game. A spread bet considers the margin of victory, giving you more even odds but requiring the favorite to “cover” the spread.

What types of NFL bets are most popular?

The most common NFL wagers include moneylines, point spreads, totals (over/unders), parlays, teasers, player props, futures, and live (in-play) bets. Each offers a different level of risk and reward.

How do NFL futures bets work?

Futures are long-term wagers on season outcomes, such as Super Bowl champions, MVP winners, or division standings. They tie up your stake for weeks or months but often pay out at higher odds.

Are NFL betting sites safe to use?

Yes, as long as you stick to licensed and regulated sportsbooks. These sites use SSL encryption to protect data, secure payment systems, and follow strict rules to keep your money safe.

What NFL betting site has the best odds?

It depends on the matchup. Some sportsbooks price spreads more competitively, while others excel with props or futures. Many bettors keep multiple accounts to shop for the best line before placing a wager.

Can I bet on NFL games live?

Yes. Live (in-play) betting allows you to place wagers after kickoff, with odds updating instantly as the game develops. Many sites also provide live stats and streaming to enhance the experience.

What banking methods do NFL betting sites accept?

Most operators support debit/credit cards, e-wallets like PayPal and Venmo, bank transfers, and increasingly, same-day crypto payouts. Withdrawal times vary by method, from a few hours with e-wallets to several days with bank transfers.

Do NFL betting sites offer special promotions during the season?

Absolutely. Many sportsbooks run NFL-specific promos like odds boosts, parlay insurance, and team-based specials, especially around marquee matchups like Sunday Night Football or the Super Bowl.

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Die-hard sports fan and overall lover of everything sports betting. Best bet ever placed was a $20 wager on Manchester United to win by the exact scor...

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