NFL Betting Expected to Top $30 Billion in 2025 Season

The American Gaming Association (AGA) projects that legal NFL betting could surpass $30 billion this season, underscoring the league’s central role in U.S. wagering growth.

Record-Breaking Handle

According to AGA estimates, U.S. sportsbooks will take in around $30 billion in NFL betting handle across the 2025 season — a sharp increase from the roughly $23 billion estimated in 2023. The boost comes from:

• Expansion of legal betting states: More than 40 states now allow legal wagering, with markets like North Carolina and Kentucky joining in recent years.
• In-game betting growth: Micro-bets and live betting continue to gain share, especially during high-profile NFL matchups.
• New media integrations: Partnerships with broadcasters like NBC, Amazon, and ESPN are putting NFL odds directly into fan experiences.

Market Leaders

Industry analysts expect FanDuel and DraftKings Sportsbook to maintain their dominant market positions in NFL betting. Together, they account for nearly two-thirds of U.S. sportsbook handle, with BetMGM and Caesars following.

Smaller operators like ESPN Bet, Fanatics Sportsbook, and Hard Rock Bet are also aiming to carve out market share through aggressive promotions and partnerships. For readers interested in how the brand stacks up against bigger names, our Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook review breaks down its features, bonuses, and market reach.

NFL’s Role in Driving Wagering

The NFL continues to be the single largest driver of U.S. sports betting activity. League and team sponsorship deals with sportsbooks — once unthinkable — are now standard. From signage inside stadiums to sportsbook lounges and digital activations, betting brands are visible across the NFL landscape.

AGA President Bill Miller noted that “NFL betting is the beating heart of the American sportsbook market,” highlighting how legalized wagering and widespread access to NFL odds have fueled both fan engagement and tax revenues.

What to Watch This Season

• Super Bowl Impact: The Super Bowl remains the most-wagered event annually; projections for 2026 could push past $1.5 billion in handle for the championship game alone.
• Regulatory Shifts: States like Missouri and Georgia are still debating legalization; if passed, they could expand the NFL betting base further.
• Integrity Monitoring: With betting volume at record highs, sportsbooks and regulators are under pressure to safeguard against suspicious wagering activity.

Citations

• ESPN – Legal NFL betting estimated to reach record $30 billion in 2025 season, Oct. 2025.
• American Gaming Association (AGA) – Industry projections and press statements, 2025.