I. Introduction
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows users to access region-restricted content by masking their real location. With a VPN, you can bypass geographic restrictions and access NFL games that would otherwise be blocked in your area. This article will discuss how to use a VPN to watch NFL games, including NFL Game Pass, NFL+, playoff games, and live online streaming.
We’ll cover the criteria for selecting the best VPN for streaming NFL games, detail the step-by-step process to watch games with a VPN, and provide additional considerations around subscriptions, regional blackouts, and legal implications. Whether you’re looking to stream every NFL game this season or just catch your home team’s playoff run, a VPN can help you tune in securely.
II. How to Watch NFL Games Using a VPN
One of the most popular ways football fans stream NFL games is with NFL Game Pass. However, access varies greatly depending on your location. With a VPN, you can unlock the full NFL Game Pass library no matter where you live.
Sign up for NFL Game Pass via DAZN
NFL Game Pass is currently offered internationally via DAZN. By connecting to a server within an approved DAZN market, you can subscribe and stream live out-of-market preseason games, replays of every game from 2009-2022, the NFL Films archive, and more. Supported markets include:
- Canada
- Germany
- Austria
- Switzerland
- Japan
To sign up:
- Connect to a VPN server located in Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland or Japan.
- Navigate to DAZN and purchase an NFL Game Pass subscription.
- Log into DAZN on your streaming device, mobile app or web browser with your account details.
- Stream live games and NFL content!
This method provides access to some of the most extensive NFL Game Pass features. Just remember to stay connected to a server within an approved region each time you stream.
Access NFL+ & Game Pass international with a VPN
NFL+ and the international version of Game Pass offer live regular season games, live radio broadcasts, archival footage and more. Available in select global regions, these services provide incredible NFL streaming access at an affordable price point compared to other options.
Here’s how to unlock NFL+ or international Game Pass:
- Connect to a VPN server located in the UK, Mexico, Brazil or another market where one of these services is offered.
- Head to the official NFL Game Pass website to subscribe and access live games in your connected region.
- Use your subscription login details to start streaming NFL+ or international Game Pass.
- Connect to VPN servers in different approved markets as needed to bypass regional blackout restrictions.
Access is fairly consistent across NFL+ and international Game Pass. Just connect to a server in an approved market to gain access.
Watch the NFL live online with a VPN in 2024
Live streaming is one of the most appealing ways to watch NFL action. In 2024, fans can live stream games across various platforms including:
- fuboTV
- Sling TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- YouTube TV
- Amazon Prime Video
The catch? Access to live streaming often depends on your location and local TV provider contracts. Luckily, a VPN makes it possible to bypass regional restrictions, blackouts and unavailable streams.
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up for a live TV streaming service that offers NFL games, such as fuboTV.
- On game day, connect to a VPN server located in a market where your game is available to stream live on your platform of choice.
- Tune into the live game feed and enjoy as if you were local.
This trick will revolutionize the way you stream NFL games live online in 2024 and beyond. No matter local blackout rules, a VPN vastly expands your access.
III. Choosing the Best VPN for Watching NFL Games
With so many VPN providers on the market, it can be tricky evaluating which is best for streaming NFL games. Below are key criteria to examine when selecting a VPN tailored to football streaming:
Criteria for selecting a VPN
Performance
NFL fans simply won’t settle for constant buffering and lag. To keep up with fast-paced games, prioritize VPNs that offer reliable connections and quick speeds. Look for modern protocols like WireGuard or proprietary protocols that provide a smooth streaming experience.
User-friendliness
From subscriptions to server connections, the VPN process should be easy to navigate. Search for providers with effortless apps, clear server labeling (by country or city), and simple account management. Less hassle means more time watching games.
Device compatibility
Whether you stream games on an iPhone or Chromecast, device compatibility is a must. Ensure your VPN has apps for all of your football streaming devices—from laptops and tablets to streaming boxes and smart TVs.
Money-back guarantee
Reputable VPNs will stand confidently behind their product with thorough money-back guarantees. Multi-month guarantees give you ample time to test performance during the peak NFL season.
Customer support
Even VPN experts need a hand occasionally. Select a provider offering 24/7 customer support via live chat, email ticketing and phone assistance in case any NFL streaming issues arise.
IV. Steps to Watch NFL Games with a VPN
Ready to expand your NFL streaming access? Here is the simple process for watching games with a VPN:
Download and install a VPN
- Select a top-rated VPN for streaming based on the criteria listed above. VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN and CyberGhost are trusted providers.
- Visit the VPN provider’s website to purchase a subscription and create an account. A longer subscription (12+ months) typically offers the best value.
- Download and install the VPN app on devices you use for streaming. Follow the prompts to log into your VPN account.
Connect to a server
- Open the VPN app and log into your account.
- Browse the list of server locations, searching for a location that provides access to your desired NFL streaming channel or service.
- Tap to connect directly from the app. You’ll see the connection go live within seconds!
Access the NFL game
- Launch your NFL streaming platform (DAZN, fuboTV, Amazon Prime, etc.)
- Tune into the live game feed or access other NFL content you wish to view.
- Enjoy unlimited NFL streaming thanks to your secure VPN connection!
Repeat the process of connecting to different VPN servers as needed to access specific games or streaming platforms.
V. Using a VPN to Stream NFL Playoff Games
As teams advance deeper into playoffs, fan interest reaches fever pitch. Unfortunately, local broadcasts and restrictions often limit access to playoff games. With creative server connections, a VPN provides the answer.
Importance of VPN for streaming NFL playoff games
Due to league contracts and regulations aimed at driving ticket revenue, NFL playoff games are particularly prone to local blackouts. As a result, streaming options are often very limited based on your location and cable provider.
During high-stakes playoff action, no fan wants the dreaded “game not available in your area” message. By masking your location, a VPN makes playoff games available across streaming platforms.
Process for watching NFL playoffs with a VPN
The steps for streaming playoff games mirror the regular season process:
- Connect to a VPN server located in a market broadcasting your desired playoff game. Prior research helps identify which locations have streaming access.
- Access a streaming platform (YouTube TV, fuboTV, etc.) carrying that playoff game for your connected VPN location.
- Enjoy the big game! Buffer-free streaming beats tuning into a sketchy bootleg stream.
Tip: Check NFL broadcast distribution schedules to target locations airing key playoff matchups. Connecting to a server in those markets enables you to stream games.
Top VPN picks for streaming NFL games
Based on consistent speed and access, these VPNs rise above the competition for streaming NFL playoff games:
- NordVPN – 5,000+ servers to connect with and unlock streams.
- Surfshark – 3,200+ servers, plus strong encryption tools.
- ExpressVPN – Trusted provider with reliable connections for HD streaming.
Each brings specialized streaming benefits. Try them during the NFL playoffs to evaluate performance firsthand.
VI. Additional Considerations
Beyond steps for accessing games with a VPN, fans should note the additional factors below that may impact NFL streaming:
Subscription to a streaming service
A VPN expands streaming access by masking location, but a streaming service subscription is still required to view games. Be sure to register with a platform (DAZN, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime) carrying your desired NFL content.
Research which streaming providers deliver NFL games in your connected VPN location prior to subscribing.
Legal obligations and regional blackouts
Copyright law prevents the unauthorized broadcasting of sporting events. Streaming restrictions aim to protect league profits and broadcaster deals. Fans assume responsibility when bypassing regional blackouts via VPN.
Users should verify if NFL Game Pass access applies specifically to replays or condensed game footage. Live regular season streaming still varies by location. As laws evolve, streaming NFL games illegally could carry penalties.
Using a VPN for secure and fast HD streaming
Modern VPN protocols introduce minimal lag time, meaning you can stream games smoothly. For the fastest connections, opt for VPN servers located closest geographically to your actual location.
VPNs also provide vital layers of security while streaming by encrypting traffic and hiding IP addresses from prying eyes. This prevents snooping ISPs from tracking user behavior or selling data.
VII. Conclusion
A VPN opens a world of possibility when it comes to accessing NFL games. By routing your connection through faraway servers, you can skirt geo-restrictions to view live streams and archived footage that would normally be blocked.
Consider the best VPNs on the market today to take full advantage of NFL Game Pass abroad or local streaming subscriptions closer to home. Keep in mind regional blackout rules still apply, so advanced planning helps identify which server locations provide the streaming access you desire.
While using a VPN raises potential legal questions surrounding copyright law, personalized streaming currently exists in a grey area without firm precedent. Tread carefully and use your best judgment when streaming copyrighted content.
As the 2023 NFL season draws near, now is the time to equip yourself with a reliable VPN. Testing various connections now allows you to identify the best servers for accessing all the NFL action next season. Don’t miss a snap—get protected with a leading VPN for football fans today!