NFL fans around the world know the struggle of trying to catch their favorite games due to regional restrictions, blackouts, or unavailable streaming services. Whether you're traveling abroad or live in a location where your team's games are blacked out, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can be the key to unlocking full NFL access. But not all VPNs are created equal—especially when it comes to streaming high-quality, fast-paced sports like football.
To help you get the best NFL viewing experience, we've tested and reviewed numerous VPN services and narrowed it down to the top best VPNs for NFL streaming in 2025. These VPNs are fast, secure, reliable, and great at unblocking major NFL streaming platforms like NFL+, ESPN, CBS, Fox Sports, NBC, Amazon Prime, and even international services like DAZN or BBC iPlayer.
- ExpressVPN – Best Overall for NFL Streaming
Why it's great:
ExpressVPN consistently tops VPN charts for a reason—it's blazing fast, extremely reliable, and perfect for streaming high-definition content with no buffering.
Key Features:
- Over 3,000 servers in 94+ countries
- Proven ability to unblock NFL Game Pass International, ESPN, Fox, CBS, and DAZN
- Optimized for streaming with minimal buffering
- MediaStreamer feature for devices that don't support VPN apps (e.g., smart TVs, consoles)
- 24/7 live chat support
Streaming Test:
We streamed an NFL Sunday doubleheader on CBS and ESPN without any lag or drops. Switching between U.S. and U.K. servers for access to NFL Game Pass International was smooth.
Downsides:
- Slightly more expensive than other options
- Only 8 simultaneous connections per account
Price: From $6.67/month (with annual plan)
- NordVPN – Best for Security and Speed
Why it's great:
NordVPN combines cutting-edge security with rapid speeds. It uses NordLynx (a proprietary protocol) to deliver fast and stable connections—perfect for NFL streaming in HD or 4K.
Key Features:
- 5,800+ servers in 60 countries
- Unblocks U.S. NFL streaming services and international Game Pass
- SmartPlay feature for streaming optimization
- Works on all major platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers)
Streaming Test:
NordVPN handled ESPN, CBS Sports, and NFL Game Pass (U.K. and Germany servers) flawlessly. Replays loaded quickly, and live streams didn't buffer.
Downsides:
- Desktop interface could be more user-friendly
- Occasional minor delays when switching servers
Price: From $3.49/month (2-year plan)
- Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for NFL
Why it's great:
Surfshark offers premium VPN features at a budget-friendly price. It allows unlimited device connections—perfect for families or roommates watching multiple games at once.
Key Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- No device connection limits
- Excellent at unblocking regional content
- CleanWeb for ad and malware blocking
Streaming Test:
We streamed the NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV and Monday Night Football on ESPN using U.S. servers without interruptions. Game Pass on international servers also worked well.
Downsides:
- Some servers slightly slower than top-tier VPNs
- Lacks certain advanced security features found in NordVPN
Price: From $2.49/month (2-year plan)
- CyberGhost – Best VPN for Beginners
Why it's great:
CyberGhost is user-friendly and perfect for VPN newbies who want to jump straight into streaming. It even labels servers optimized for streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or sports channels.
Key Features:
- 9,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Specialized servers for streaming and gaming
- Easy-to-use apps for all major platforms
- Excellent speeds and connection stability
Streaming Test:
CyberGhost's U.S. and U.K. streaming servers unlocked NFL Game Pass, DAZN Canada, and U.S. local network streams effortlessly. User interface makes finding the right server a breeze.
Downsides:
- Doesn't work in some restricted countries (like China)
- Not the fastest VPN on the list
Price: From $2.19/month (2-year plan)
- Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best for Customization
Why it's great:
PIA is a privacy-focused VPN with strong streaming capabilities and advanced customization options for tech-savvy users.
Key Features:
- 30,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Powerful encryption and privacy tools
- Advanced split tunneling
- Strong track record for streaming
Streaming Test:
PIA streamed NFL games via CBS All Access and Fox Sports without issues. Game Pass also worked when connected to Canadian and U.K. servers.
Downsides:
- Slightly slower speeds on distant servers
- UI can be intimidating for new users
Price: From $2.03/month (3-year plan)
What You Can Unblock with a VPN for NFL
With a top-tier VPN, you can unblock:
- NFL+ (U.S.) – For live local and primetime games
- NFL Game Pass International – Full access to every game, including replays
- DAZN (Canada, Germany, etc.) – Streams every NFL game live
- ESPN/ABC – Monday Night Football and more
- CBS, NBC, Fox – Sunday games and primetime matches
- YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, fuboTV – Complete NFL coverage with U.S. IP
Tips for Streaming the NFL with a VPN
- Choose a fast server – Use a server close to your target streaming region for better speed.
- Clear cookies/cache – Prevents the streaming service from detecting your real location.
- Use split tunneling – Prioritize NFL streaming traffic while keeping other apps on your local connection.
- Try multiple servers – If one server doesn't work with a streaming service, switch to another in the same country.
- Contact VPN support – Many offer 24/7 chat to help with streaming-specific issues.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a die-hard fan wanting to follow every touchdown or just trying to catch your favorite team while traveling, a quality VPN is a game-changer for NFL streaming. ExpressVPN remains the top pick for its reliability and speed, but NordVPN and Surfshark provide excellent alternatives, especially for users who want strong security or budget-friendly options.
No matter which one you choose from this list, you'll be unlocking a world of NFL action with just a few clicks.
