Are you an NFL fan residing in China and looking for ways to catch all the thrilling football action? While cable TV may not be readily available or convenient for everyone, alternative methods exist to watch the NFL in China. In this guide, we’ll explore various streaming platforms that allow you to stream NFL games without the need for cable TV, keeping you connected to the excitement of American football right from the comfort of your home.
But first things first, you need a VPN in China. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can be a valuable tool for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content from different regions. Using a VPN, you can connect to a server in a country where NFL streaming services are available, granting you access to live games. Research and choose a reliable VPN service, install the software and connect to a server in a suitable location for streaming NFL games.
Best VPN for watching NFL games in China
Currently, I am based in Hong Kong, but I frequently travel back and forth to mainland China for personal reasons. Given the stringent internet censorship regulations in mainland China, I have opted to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to safeguard the privacy and security of my online activities.
In recent times, it has become increasingly challenging to utilize VPNs within China due to intensified government crackdowns. Following the protests in 2022 regarding the Zero-Covid policy, connecting to many VPNs has become significantly more difficult. However, ExpressVPN continues to operate smoothly in China, which is quite remarkable. ExpressVPN does not maintain any servers within China, allowing them to bypass China’s logging requirements. This is one of the key factors influencing my decision to choose ExpressVPN.
How to watch NFL games with a VPN in China?
Essentially, a VPN adds an additional layer of security by concealing your computer’s actual location. Despite sounding complex, using a VPN is straightforward. Below is the process for live streaming out-of-market NFL games with a VPN:
- Select a VPN that aligns with your requirements and budget. Numerous reputable options exist, but I personally recommend ExpressVPN.
- Create an account and download the VPN app onto your devices.
- Determine the location from which you can live stream the game.
- Connect to your VPN using the desired location and commence streaming the game.
By following these steps, you can enjoy live streaming out-of-market NFL games while benefiting from the security and privacy provided by a VPN.
Where to watch NFL games in China?
If you’re considering cutting the cord and searching for a reliable live TV streaming service to watch the 2022 NFL season, here are several service providers that offer a decent selection of channels and features.
However, it’s important to note that not all of them provide access to all the necessary channels for live streaming every NFL game. To determine the required channels for the games you want to watch, refer to the complete NFL schedule. Keep in mind that to view all live games, you’ll still need Amazon Prime Video for most Thursday Night Football matchups.
FuboTV
FuboTV is well-known as a streaming service tailored for sports fans. It allows you to live stream both national and local NFL games in your area. FuboTV offers a wide variety of sports content and boasts over 120 channels that cover live sports, TV shows, and movies.
With local channels, ESPN, and NFL Network included, FuboTV provides everything you need to enjoy the 2022 NFL season online. By adding the Sports Plus add-on for $10.99/mo, you can also access NFL RedZone and over 25 other sports channels. With a total of 120+ channels, FuboTV is priced at $74.99/mo.
DIRECTV STREAM
DIRECTV STREAM is a comprehensive streaming service that excels in providing a wide range of content. The Choice plan, priced at $99.99/mo, offers an excellent selection of regional sports networks (RSNs) for fans of local MLB, NHL, NBA, and NFL teams. The plan includes over 75+ channels, encompassing all local channels. However, it does not offer NFL Network or NFL RedZone as part of its options. DIRECTV STREAM’s pricing is set at $74.99/mo.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV currently offers all four essential local channels required for live streaming the 2022 NFL season at a price of $69.99/mo. It also includes ESPN and NFL Network. For access to NFL RedZone, you can opt for the sports add-on priced at an additional $9.99/mo.
With a total of 85+ channels, Hulu + Live TV offers unlimited cloud DVR storage for up to 9 months and allows streaming on two devices simultaneously. Consider the ad-free plan, available for an extra $6, if you plan to watch on-demand content. The free trial option is not available for Hulu + Live TV.
Sling TV
Sling TV is an affordable option at $40.00/mo for its Blue plan, which offers 40+ channels. However, in terms of NFL viewing, it provides local affiliates for Fox and NBC based on your location. The Sling Blue plan also includes NFL Network, while ESPN is available with the Sling Orange plan, which is also priced at $40.00/mo.
To access a comprehensive range of football content, the combined Orange + Blue plan is recommended at $55.00/mo, providing ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3. You can get NFL RedZone by adding the Sports Extra package for $11/mo or $15/mo with the Orange + Blue plan. Sling TV offers a free HD Antenna if you prepay for two months of your subscription, which can help you access local affiliate channels such as ABC and CBS. Sling TV’s free trial option is not available.
Vidgo
Vidgo offers a wide selection of live TV channels at a competitive price of $69.99/mo for their base package. It includes two important local channels, ABC and Fox, to live stream the NFL season. Additionally, Vidgo provides five ESPN channels (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN Deportes, and ESPNews) and NFL Network. Notably,
Vidgo does not offer cloud DVR storage with its base package, but you can consider using a hardware DVR as an alternative. With a total of 100+ channels, Vidgo is a viable choice for NFL fans.
Remember to check out the respective free trial options for each streaming service to assess if it meets your requirements. It’s also worth exploring additional streaming platforms like Peacock and Paramount+ to compensate for NBC and CBS channels.
What are the NFL games with NFL+ in China?
If you’re comfortable watching NFL games on your phone or tablet, NFL+ on FuboTV is a suitable option. For a monthly subscription fee of $4.99, you can live stream all in-market and primetime NFL games. Prior to 2022, this service was available for free through the Yahoo Sports app, the NFL app, or nfl.com, but it is no longer offered at no cost. The subscription includes live access to out-of-market preseason games, live game audio, and NFL library programming.
By upgrading to NFL+ Premium for $9.99 per month, you gain access to complete full and condensed game replays of all games on all devices. Additionally, it provides access to Coaches Film, offering unique angles and perspectives. For subscribers outside the US, Canada, and China, NFL Game Pass is available, allowing live streaming of all games.
If you don’t mind watching games after they air and typically record live games to watch later, NFL+ Premium is a suitable choice for $9.99 per month. NFL Game Pass, priced at $99.99 per football season, provides the ability to live stream every NFL game, regardless of market. This includes the NFL Playoffs and Super Bowl, which are commercial-free in 720p resolution.
It’s important to note that NFL+ subscribers can also live stream out-of-market preseason games. Additionally, both the full broadcasts and condensed versions of each game are available. The condensed versions eliminate non-action moments, enabling you to watch an entire game quickly and maximize your NFL viewing experience. NFL+ and NFL Game Pass also offer features such as coach’s film, extra camera angles, and additional NFL programming like Hard Knocks, catering to the most dedicated fans.
You can try NFL NFL+ free for a week to explore its offerings. For more detailed information, we recommend reading our comprehensive NFL+ review before making a purchase decision.
The 2023 NFL Draft order
In the 2023 NFL Draft, notable players like Alabama quarterback Bryce Young and Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter were among those selected. Below is the current first-round draft order, including the timing of teams without a first-round pick, such as the Miami Dolphins, making their initial selection. It’s worth mentioning that this year’s draft consists of 31 first-round picks due to the Miami Dolphins forfeiting their pick as a result of an investigation into tampering conducted in 2022. For the complete draft order, please refer to the provided link.
| PICK | TEAM | PLAYER SELECTED | DRAFT NEEDS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Carolina Panthers | Bryce Young, QB, Alabama | QB, CB, TE, WR |
| 2. | Houston Texans | CJ Stroud, QB, Alabama | QB, OL, WR, DL |
| 3. | Houston Texans (via Arizona Cardinals) | Will Anderson, EDGE, Alabama | OL, EDGE, CB |
| 4. | Indianapolis Colts | Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida | QB, OL, WR |
| 5. | Seattle Seahawks (via Denver Broncos) | Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois | EDGE, DL, WR, QB |
| 6. | Arizona Cardinals (via Detroit Lions) | Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State | OL, DB, DL, LB |
| 7. | Las Vegas Raiders | Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech | OL, DL, RB, QB |
| 8. | Atlanta Falcons | Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas | EDGE, WR, CB, QB |
| 9. | Philadelphia Eagles (via Chicago Bears) | Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia | OL, EDGE, DL |
| 10. | Chicago Bears (via Philadelphia Eagles) | Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee | DB, DL, RB, OL |
| 11. | Tennessee Titans | Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern | OL, WR, LB, QB |
| 12. | Detroit Lions (via Arizona Cardinals via Houston Texans) | Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama | QB, OL, WR, DL |
| 13. | Green Bay Packers (via New York Jets) | Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa | S, TE, WR, EDGE, QB |
| 14. | Pittsburgh Steelers (via New England Patriots) | Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia | OT, WR, DB |
| 15. | New York Jets (via Green Bay Packers) | Will McDonald IV, LB, Iowa State | OL, TE, LB |
| 16. | Washington Commanders | Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State | CB, QB, S, OL |
| 17. | New England Patriots (via Pittsburgh Steelers) | Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon | OL, CB, DL |
| 18. | Detroit Lions | Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa | DB, DL, LB |
| 19. | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh | QB, DB, DL, DB |
| 20. | Seattle Seahawks | Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State | EDGE, DL, WR, QB |
| 21. | Los Angeles Chargers | Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU | DL, WR, TE, RB |
| 22. | Baltimore Ravens | Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College | WR, CB, EDGE, QB |
| 23. | Minnesota Vikings | Jordan Addison, WR, Southern California | CB, DL, OL |
| 24. | New York Giants (via Jacksonville Jaguars) | Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland | DB, CB, OT |
| 25. | Buffalo Bills (via Jacksonville Jaguars via New York Giants) | Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah | WR, G, C, DB |
| 26. | Dallas Cowboys | Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan | CB, WR, RB, DL |
| 27. | Jacksonville Jaguars (via Buffalo Bills) | Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma | OL, LB, S, WR |
| 28. | Cincinnati Bengals | Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson | DB, OT, TE |
| 29. | New Orleans Saints (via San Francisco 49ers) | Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson | QB, DL, RB, WR |
| 30. | Philadelphia Eagles | Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia | DB, DL, RB, OL |
| 31. | Kansas City Chiefs | Felix Anudike-Uzomah, EDGE, Kansas State | OT, EDGE, WR |
| 37.* | Los Angeles Rams | Steve Avila, G, TCU | DT, WR, TE, EDGE |
| 52.* | Miami Dolphins | Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina | EDGE, OL |
| 63.* | Denver Broncos (via Kansas City Chiefs) | Marvin Mims Jr., WR, Oklahoma | OL, CB, TE |
| 74.* | Cleveland Browns | Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee | DL, LB, S, WR |
| 87.* | San Francisco 49ers (via Minnesota Vikings) | Ji’Ayir Brown, S, Penn State | OL, DL, DB |
2023 NFL preseason schedule
On Thursday, August 5, the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game marks the official start of the 2023 NFL preseason, featuring a match between the Cleveland Browns and the New York Jets. You can access the full preseason schedule at the provided link, and below, you will find the complete schedule of nationally televised games.
| GAME | DATE AND TIME | NETWORK |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Browns vs. New York Jets (Game in Canton, Ohio, for Pro Football Hall of Fame Game) | Thursday, August 3, 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. BST | NBC |
| Washington Commanders vs. Baltimore Ravens | Monday, August 21, 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. BST | ESPN |
| Philadelphia Eagles vs. Indianapolis Colts | Thursday, August 24, 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. BST | Prime Video |
| Carolina Panthers vs. Detroit Lions | Friday, August 25, 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. BST | CBS |
| New Orleans Saints vs. Houston Texans | Saturday, August 26, 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. BST | Fox |
