NFL Betting Handle Hits New Highs: Which Teams Drive the Most Action?

With legal sports betting live in more than 30 U.S. jurisdictions, the NFL has become the single biggest driver of wagering activity in the country. As the 2025 season unfolds, betting handle is setting new records — and certain teams are proving to be the biggest magnets for sportsbooks.

NFL Dominates U.S. Sportsbooks

According to recent industry data, the NFL accounts for 40–50% of annual sportsbook handle in most major betting states. That means billions of dollars wagered each year on spreads, totals, player props, and in-game bets tied to football.

“Football is the king of American sports betting,” said Eric Williams, an analyst with Eilers & Krejcik Gaming. “Nothing else comes close in terms of volume or cultural impact.”

The Teams That Move the Needle

While every NFL game attracts wagers, certain franchises consistently rank at the top for betting interest:

• Dallas Cowboys – Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys’ massive national fan base makes them one of the most bet-on teams every season, regardless of performance.
• Kansas City Chiefs – With Patrick Mahomes leading the way, the Chiefs have become a favorite among bettors, drawing huge action on primetime matchups.
• Philadelphia Eagles – A passionate fan base and recent Super Bowl appearances keep Philadelphia near the top of betting charts.
• New York Giants & Jets – The New York market is the largest in the country, with both teams drawing high betting volumes simply due to population size.
• Las Vegas Raiders – Playing in the betting capital of the world, the Raiders enjoy strong handle both locally and nationally.

In-Game & Prop Bets Surge

The rise of in-game betting and player props has supercharged NFL handle. Bettors now wager on everything from a quarterback’s passing yards to whether the next play will be a run or pass.

For example, during the 2024 season, live betting accounted for over 25% of NFL wagers in states where the product is available. This trend is expected to grow as sportsbooks improve real-time data feeds and mobile technology.

Why the NFL Reigns Supreme

Several factors explain why NFL betting towers over other sports:

• Short Season, Big Stakes: With just 17 regular season games, each matchup feels more important, fueling wagering intensity.
• National TV Coverage: Every game can be followed easily, especially with primetime slots.
• Fantasy Football Tie-In: Millions of fantasy players transition naturally into betting on props and game outcomes.
• Cultural Reach: The NFL dominates U.S. sports media, creating constant demand for odds and lines.

What It Means for Sportsbooks

Operators invest heavily in NFL promotions, with many offering “no sweat” bets, odds boosts, and same-game parlays tied to Sunday matchups. Analysts note that while the NFL drives handle, margins can be thin, as sportsbooks compete aggressively for market share.

Still, for sportsbooks, winning the NFL bettor means winning the market. With billions expected to be wagered on the 2025–26 season and Super Bowl LX projected to set all-time records, the NFL’s grip on U.S. sports betting is only strengthening.