Your Guide to Watching the 2026 NFL Preseason on DirecTV

The NFL preseason sets the stage for every football campaign, giving fans a first look at rookie standouts, new coaching strategies, and depth-chart battles that influence the regular season. With the 2026 preseason, expanded team rosters and revamped scheduling bring a renewed intensity not seen in previous years—offering four full weekends of matchups and introducing a flex-primetime slot for preseason games. Curious how to get the most comprehensive coverage in your living room? DirecTV delivers access to every televised preseason game, nationwide satellite reach, and exclusive sports packages like NFL Sunday Ticket and NFL RedZone. Why settle for limited regional broadcasts when you can track every play on a reliable platform designed for devoted fans? Planning your preseason viewing has never been simpler—or more rewarding.

2026 NFL Preseason Schedule: Key Dates and Matchups

Where to Find the Full Preseason Schedule

The complete 2026 NFL preseason schedule, including game dates, kickoff times, and broadcast network assignments, will appear on the official NFL website (NFL.com/schedules/preseason). Updates also post directly to team websites and via trusted media outlets like ESPN and Sports Illustrated. Fans tracking specific teams can set personalized alerts through the NFL Mobile App and DirecTV’s interactive program guides once the schedule releases—historically, this happens by late May.

Highlighted Must-Watch Games

• Week 1: New York Jets vs. Dallas Cowboys – Two storied franchises open the preseason, with both teams likely showcasing new roster moves. Anticipate this matchup to draw high national interest.
• Week 2: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Cincinnati Bengals – Last season's playoff rivals meet again. Expect both Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow to play at least one series, according to patterns from preseason rotations over the past three years.
• Hall of Fame Game: Green Bay Packers vs. Las Vegas Raiders – Traditionally the first game of the preseason, the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio, draws early attention, especially as both teams feature incoming draft talent and veteran starters returning from injury.
• Week 3: San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams – Preseason games rarely mirror regular season intensity, but division rivals often give fans a preview of tactical adjustments.

Did you know that in the 2025 preseason, over 60% of nationally televised games featured a playoff team from the prior year? This trend will likely continue in 2026, increasing the significance of certain matchups for broader audiences.

Notable TV Broadcasts (NBC, ESPN, Local Affiliates)

• NBC: National broadcasts focus on marquee matchups, typically with a Sunday night slot. The Hall of Fame Game usually airs on NBC, drawing an average of 7.3 million viewers in 2025 (Nielsen).
• ESPN: Monday night preseason coverage brings national attention to select high-profile games. In 2025, ESPN showcased four live preseason contests, a trend expected to continue.
• Local Affiliates: Most remaining games air regionally. For instance, FOX and CBS local stations routinely cover in-market teams, while simulcasts reach out-of-market subscribers via DirecTV.

Looking for a specific broadcast? DirecTV’s on-screen guide integrates live data feeds from broadcasters and will display channel assignments once the networks lock in their game selections.

DirecTV Sports Packages: Options for NFL Fans

Exploring DirecTV Sports Bundles

DirecTV offers several sports-centric packages designed for fans who want more than just the basics. While every subscriber receives access to nationally broadcast NFL preseason games on major networks such as CBS, FOX, and NBC, specific packages enhance the experience with extra features and broader coverage. Which package seems right for your needs—a comprehensive lineup or something more tailored?

• Choice: Get over 185 channels, including ESPN, NFL Network, FS1, and regional sports networks. Sports fans frequently start here, since the NFL Network provides extensive preseason analysis and coverage.
• Ultimate: This package raises the total to more than 250 channels—adding specialty sports channels like CBS Sports Network and Golf Channel. NFL fans who enjoy following other sports beyond football often select Ultimate for its broader range.
• Premier: The full suite includes upwards of 330 channels and adds premium networks such as HBO, Showtime, and Starz, along with all sports channels from lower tiers. Households that want every entertainment or sports option go for Premier.

Standard vs. Premium Packages: What’s the Difference?

Not all sports fans require premium channels or extra features. Standard packages like Choice and Ultimate focus heavily on regional sports and national sports networks vital for preseason game access; however, Premier throws in movie packages and exclusive channels. Think about whether you crave premium content beyond sports or just want the core NFL experience—how wide do you want to cast your entertainment net?

Add-Ons for NFL Fans: Spotlight on NFL Sunday Ticket

DirecTV has built its reputation in part on football exclusivity, and the NFL Sunday Ticket remains a signature option. As of the 2025-2026 season, NFL Sunday Ticket includes all out-of-market regular season Sunday games but does not offer preseason matchups. Add-ons like DIRECTV Sports Pack provide over 40 regional and specialty sports channels for fans following players, teams, or other leagues.

• NFL Sunday Ticket: Delivers every out-of-market Sunday game during the regular season. Local preseason games air on their primary networks, not through this add-on.
• DirecTV Sports Pack: Unlocks specialty networks such as MLB Network Strike Zone and NBA TV. Preseason football coverage remains limited to the core group of sport networks in your base package.

Would focusing on the base sports lineup or opting for premium add-ons better serve your fandom this preseason? Consider which teams and types of coverage matter most—your perfect setup depends on it.

How to Access NFL Games on DirecTV: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-Step: Locating NFL Preseason Games

Finding NFL preseason games on DirecTV demands precision. Begin at your DirecTV home screen. With the remote in hand, press the Guide button. Once the electronic program guide (EPG) appears, enter the specific channel numbers for national broadcasters. For the 2026 preseason, games routinely appear on CBS (channel 221), FOX (channel 360), and NBC (channel 220) according to DirecTV's 2024 channel assignments—verify these numbers for any updates by the 2026 season.

Some regional or team-specific broadcasts will fall under local affiliate channels. Use your ZIP code on directv.com/local to confirm your designated channel lineup. Spot a matchup or your favorite team by entering the team’s name or “NFL Preseason” in the EPG’s search bar. You can choose to set reminders or directly select the channel to begin viewing live coverage.

Navigating the DirecTV Channel Lineup

• Scroll through the on-screen guide using arrow keys, rapidly moving through blocks of programming to reach football timeslots.
• Channels carrying NFL preseason games display team names and NFL logos next to scheduled program tiles; look for these visual clues as you move through the lineup.
• Games simulcast nationally, such as a preseason Thursday night opener, appear on national network channels and occasionally may be duplicated on regional sports networks, depending on copyright agreements for 2026.

Utilizing the Electronic Program Guide (EPG)

With DirecTV’s EPG, you receive seven to fourteen days of programming at a glance (the exact duration depends on your receiver model and account configuration). Highlight a game for additional details—a pop-up will list kickoff time, team records, and commentators’ info.

Schedule changes occur frequently during preseason due to last-minute adjustments. For this reason, refresh the EPG by pressing the yellow or options button and selecting "Update Guide". This action seeks out the most current listings from DirecTV's network.

• Use the “Sports” filter to condense guide listings exclusively to live or upcoming sports telecasts.
• To save time, add NFL preseason games as “Favorites.” Selecting a favorite displays relevant channels at the top of your guide menu when game time arrives.

Which feature will you leverage first to streamline your NFL preseason experience—real-time search, favorites, or the sports category filter?

NFL Sunday Ticket on DirecTV: Is It Needed for Preseason?

Understanding NFL Sunday Ticket’s Purpose

NFL Sunday Ticket operates as a premium out-of-market package, specifically designed to deliver every live, out-of-market regular season NFL game on Sunday afternoons. The National Football League crafted this product for fans who want access to games not locally broadcast in their TV market. Historically, DirecTV held exclusive rights to the NFL Sunday Ticket package until the 2023 season, after which streaming platforms like YouTube TV secured these rights. However, the purpose remains unchanged: regular season, out-of-market Sunday games. Preseason coverage has never been considered part of the NFL Sunday Ticket lineup.

Preseason Game Access: With and Without Sunday Ticket

DirecTV does not require an NFL Sunday Ticket subscription to view preseason games. The NFL distributes broadcast rights for preseason contests differently than for the regular season. Most preseason games air on local network affiliates (such as NBC, CBS, FOX, and ABC) or on national cable channels like NFL Network. In 2023, NFL Network televised 23 live preseason games nationally (NFL Communications). Local DirecTV packages automatically include these networks, meaning subscribers can watch all available preseason games aired in their market or nationally televised without the need for Sunday Ticket.

• Subscribers receive in-market preseason games on local broadcast affiliates, included in base channel lineups.
• NFL Network and ESPN simulcast select nationally distributed preseason matchups, accessible with DirecTV’s standard sports offerings.
• Out-of-market preseason games broadcast on local channels in other cities remain unavailable unless simulcast on NFL Network or national partners.

Why pay for NFL Sunday Ticket if preseason access comes standard? The reason is simple: Sunday Ticket brings value only during the regular season, when national or local coverage leaves gaps for die-hard fans seeking exclusive Sunday afternoon games outside their home market. During the preseason, this restriction does not exist, as the NFL focuses on wide accessibility and experimentation with media partners. Examine your DirecTV package details for included channels such as NFL Network and your region’s affiliates—these channels will provide full preseason game coverage where available.

Channel Guide for NFL Preseason on DirecTV

Where to Find Every NFL Preseason Game

Scanning DirecTV’s lineup before kickoff turns into a breeze with a detailed channel guide. National and regional broadcasters carry NFL preseason games, but channel locations vary depending on your package and zip code. Checking this list means no more missed opening snap.

• NBC: Nationally televised preseason games air on NBC. On most DirecTV receivers, NBC affiliates appear on channel 2–69, with the exact number determined by local markets.
• ESPN: Featured preseason matchups, including “Monday Night Football” specials, broadcast on ESPN. Viewers across the country tune into channel 206.
• NFL Network: Exclusive preseason coverage and whip-around analysis land on channel 212.
• Local Sports Stations: Many regional games run on channels designated for local affiliates, commonly found in the 600–699 range, depending on the DMA (Designated Market Area).

For those subscribing to the Premier or Ultimate service tier, all national sports networks—including NFL Network and ESPN—unlock automatically. Entry-level “Entertainment” plan users receive NBC and local stations, but need to verify inclusion of NFL Network and ESPN ahead of time by checking package details in the DirecTV guide.

Region-Specific Channel Numbers

Imagine you live in Dallas: NBC affiliate KXAS sits on DirecTV channel 5; ESPN and NFL Network remain on 206 and 212 nationwide. Switch to Southern California, and NBC affiliate KNBC shows up on channel 4. Regional variations mean the same national network carries different numbers from city to city.

• New York: NBC, channel 4; ESPN, channel 206; NFL Network, channel 212.
• Chicago: NBC, channel 5; ESPN, channel 206; NFL Network, channel 212.
• Miami: NBC, channel 6; ESPN, channel 206; NFL Network, channel 212.

Varied channel assignments for local affiliates highlight the value of DirecTV’s on-screen guide—interactive tools reveal up-to-the-minute channel info by simply pressing GUIDE on your remote and searching for “NFL Preseason.”

Optimizing Your Viewing Experience

Why flip through dozens of channels each time preseason action kicks off? DirecTV’s “Favorites” feature lets you create a custom list of all relevant sports channels. After selecting NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, and appropriate local stations, you jump straight from highlights to play-by-play. Ever tried setting up your personalized sports lineup? Just press the MENU button, select “Favorites,” then add your must-watch networks for instant access all season long.

Getting comfortable with your channel lineup translates to fewer missed touchdowns and more time spent enjoying the 2026 NFL preseason from the opening drive to the final whistle.

Streaming Options: DirecTV Stream and Beyond

DirecTV Stream Service for NFL Preseason Games

DirecTV Stream provides live access to nationally televised 2026 NFL preseason games airing on major networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and ESPN. Every DirecTV Stream package—Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier—features local affiliates of these networks, depending on regional availability (DirecTV, 2024).

A user seeking maximum preseason coverage can select DirecTV Stream’s Choice package or higher, since these plans include regional sports networks and specialty channels that may carry additional NFL coverage or analysis. Fans asking, “Where will I find preseason games?” will typically locate them on the same broadcast networks airing nationally televised regular season contests.

How to Stream Preseason Action Using the DirecTV App

Once you subscribe to DirecTV Stream, download the DirecTV app on iOS, Android, Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, or Chromecast. After logging in, enter the “Guide” to identify active NFL preseason broadcasts. Select your desired matchup, then start streaming instantly. Pause, rewind, or fast-forward as necessary—the app supports full control during live and replayed telecasts (DirecTV Help, 2024).

• Ensure your subscription includes the channel airing the preseason contest.
• Access simultaneous streams on unlimited devices within your home network and up to three out-of-home devices—the industry-standard for multi-device flexibility (DirecTV Stream Device Policy, 2024).

Comparing DirecTV Stream with Other Streaming Services

DirecTV Stream stands alongside several competitors in the NFL streaming arena, but feature sets and availability differ. Examine these comparisons:

• Peacock: NBC’s exclusive streaming home, carrying select nationally televised preseason games. Full access requires a separate Peacock Premium subscription (average cost: $5.99/month as of June 2024, per PeacockTV).
• YouTube TV: Broadcasts all major networks, offering local NFL preseason coverage similar to DirecTV Stream. YouTube TV provides unlimited DVR storage and supports three simultaneous streams per account (YouTube TV Help Center, 2024).
• Hulu + Live TV: Integrates ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN into its base package. In-market preseason games mirror what’s available on DirecTV Stream, but out-of-market access remains limited outside NFL+ or NFL Network broadcasts.
• Sling TV: Lower-cost option, but channel availability varies by package (Blue vs. Orange). Not all local affiliates participate, so verify coverage for your market before subscribing.

Which service covers your favorite NFL team best? Locate preseason game schedules and match them to the networks offered by your streaming service of choice before making a decision.

Where Can You Watch: Device Compatibility for the 2026 NFL Preseason on DirecTV

Supported TVs and Streaming Devices

Accessing the 2026 NFL preseason on DirecTV is possible on a broad range of smart TVs and streaming hardware. Major manufacturers such as Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio offer smart TVs compatible with the DirecTV app. Streaming sticks like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV (4th generation or later) deliver another seamless method for enjoying preseason games. For those with Google Chromecast, casting from your mobile device or computer provides flexible viewing options. DirecTV confirms consistent support and frequent updates for these platforms—ensuring minimal interruption during live events.

Mobile and Tablet Compatibility

Watching from anywhere is possible with mobile compatibility covering both iOS and Android. The DirecTV app is available on iPhones and iPads running iOS 15 or later, while Android smartphones and tablets require Android 8.0 or above. In 2023, data from Statista showed that smartphone video viewers in the U.S. surpassed 200 million, underlining why DirecTV invests in robust mobile streaming experiences. Whether sitting with friends at a park or streaming on the commute home, full preseason coverage fits in the palm of your hand.

Web Browsers and Companion Apps

Prefer watching on a laptop or desktop? DirecTV’s web portal functions on current versions of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. Just sign into your account, and direct streaming begins. Those who don’t want to miss a play while multi-tasking can open the DirecTV app on both Windows and MacOS through native applications or via browser access. Multiple users in the same household can watch simultaneously, depending on your subscription plan.

• Smart TVs: Works with Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio (2018 or newer models typically supported).
• Streaming Devices: Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV (tvOS 12.0 or later); Chromecast integration for casting.
• Mobile Devices: iOS (iOS 15+), Android (8.0+).
• Laptops & Desktops: Streaming through DirecTV.com on updated Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari browsers.

Which device serves as your favorite gameday companion, and how does your setup make preseason football unforgettable? Experiment with these options and discover which suits your viewing habits for the 2026 NFL preseason.

Subscription Costs and Packages: What to Expect

Cost Breakdown for DirecTV Sports Packages

DirecTV structures its sports offering through a tiered bundle system. As of the 2024-2025 pricing cycle, the Choice™ package, which includes many regional and national sports networks, carries a monthly cost of $84.99 (subject to annual adjustment). The Ultimate package, a step up, lists for $109.99 per month and provides exclusive channels such as NFL Network, as well as increased DVR storage. Sports enthusiasts who want comprehensive out-of-market coverage can add specialized packs; the Sports Pack is priced at $14.99 per month, granting access to 40+ regional sports networks and specialty channels—including those broadcasting select NFL preseason matchups.

NFL Preseason Access: Base vs. Add-On Packages

To follow the broad slate of NFL preseason games, the base Choice™ package covers most locally televised matchups through national networks like CBS, FOX, and NBC. Nationally broadcast preseason games on ESPN require the Ultimate or Premier packages, as ESPN is not available on lower tiers. For out-of-market or regionally exclusive contests, the Sports Pack add-on fills coverage gaps, streaming feeds via NFL Network and supplementing where applicable. Fans seeking to watch every available preseason game can combine package upgrades with add-ons for the most comprehensive access.

Ongoing Promotions and Discounts for New Subscribers

Promotions consistently target new DirecTV customers at the start of each NFL season, and 2026 is expected to be no exception. Recent years (2022–2024) show discounts averaging $30–$40 off per month for the first year across major packages, along with free Sports Pack or complimentary premium channels for up to three months. Some offers bundle installation and device fees at no additional charge, reducing overall startup costs. Loyalty and referral programs, typically announced in late July, extend extra incentives such as bill credits or free upgrades to the next package tier for NFL fans who sign up specifically for preseason coverage. Which offer stands out to you? New subscriber deals often change weekly—so reviewing the DirecTV promotions page before preseason kicks off helps maximize value.

• Choice™ Package (2024 Pricing): $84.99/mo; most local and national NFL preseason games.
• Ultimate Package: $109.99/mo; full network coverage including ESPN & NFL Network.
• Sports Pack Add-on: $14.99/mo; regional and specialty sports channels for extended preseason access.
• Promotional Discounts (Typical): $30–$40 off/month (first 12 months); free premium add-ons for 3 months.

With the 2026 NFL preseason fast approaching, package flexibility remains a core strength for DirecTV. How will you tailor your plan—opting for base coverage, or building out a complete football experience with add-ons and promotional perks?

Demystifying NFL Preseason Blackout Rules and Restrictions on DirecTV

NFL Blackout Policy: How and Why It Impacts Your Access

The NFL blackout policy prevents certain games from airing in specific regions when a local broadcaster holds exclusive rights or when the home game fails to sell out. While the NFL significantly relaxed local blackout rules after the 2015 season, local broadcast rights still influence preseason game availability on platforms like DirecTV. During the 2026 preseason, local affiliates (such as CBS, FOX, or NBC) often retain exclusive broadcast rights for games played in their designated markets. As a result, DirecTV must comply, and the impacted games may be unavailable for live viewing via national channels in those regions.

Local vs. National Broadcasts: What Determines Your Viewing Access?

Direct access to preseason games on DirecTV hinges on the source of the broadcast. When a preseason game is nationally televised (for example, on NFL Network or ESPN), DirecTV subscribers across the country can view the game. However, when the game is classified as “local,” only viewers within the designated home market can tune in via the local affiliate broadcaster; DirecTV’s national sports channels will not carry the same feed in that area. This arrangement aligns with the NFL’s agreements to protect local advertising revenue and affiliate partnerships. According to the NFL’s official 2023 Broadcasting regulations, this model applies consistently to preseason matchups, and no changes have been announced for 2026 (NFL Operations, Broadcasting Rules & Procedures).

How Subscribing to the Right DirecTV Package Minimizes Blackout Frustrations

To watch every available preseason contest, DirecTV subscribers must hold the right mix of channels in their chosen package. The “Choice” package and above includes local regional broadcast affiliates along with national sports networks like NFL Network. When a game is blacked out on a national feed due to local exclusivity, switching to the correct channel (such as your area’s NBC, FOX, or CBS affiliate) will provide access. For viewers outside a team’s geographic market, national feeds on DirecTV or NFL Network offer a path around local restrictions, provided those games are carried nationally. NFL Sunday Ticket does not include preseason games—subscribing or opting for add-ons will not alter blackout enforcement for these matches.

• Have you checked which local affiliates your DirecTV package covers?
• Are you in a designated home or away market for your team?
• An online channel lookup tool shows which DirecTV channels correspond to your zip code and which blackout rules may apply per game.

Your Ultimate NFL Preseason TV Guide with DirecTV

Ready to dive into the 2026 NFL preseason? DirecTV offers multiple ways to catch every touchdown, tackle, and highlight, delivering a complete viewing experience for NFL fans. If you want to follow your team’s first snaps or compare rookies across the league, you’ll find that DirecTV’s service lineup gives you unmatched access. Why settle for highlights only when complete coverage sits one channel click away?

Enhance Your 2026 NFL Preseason with DirecTV

• Comprehensive Channel Coverage: All major networks—NBC, CBS, ESPN—integrate into DirecTV’s programming, letting you flip between national matchups and your local favorites.
• Customizable Packages: Dive into sports bundles designed specifically for NFL enthusiasts. Which add-on package best fits your preseason game-watching preferences?
• Seamless Streaming and Device Options: Watch on your living room TV, your tablet at the office, or your phone at the cafe. DirecTV Stream syncs across supported devices, so missing out becomes a thing of the past.
• Advanced DVR and Replay Capabilities: Fans can pause live games, rewind that improbable catch, and store entire preseason weekends using DirecTV’s robust recording features. How many highlight reels will you save this year?
• Direct Integration with NFL Apps: Follow scores in real time, check player stats mid-game, and dive into extra content through DirecTV’s connected app ecosystem.

Your Next Steps: Explore, Subscribe, and Get Watching

• Visit the DirecTV NFL Sports page to compare current packages and features.
• Choose your optimal sports bundle or streaming subscription—compare channels, cost, and included features for the best fit.
• Download the DirecTV and NFL mobile apps before kickoff to guarantee a smooth, on-the-go experience.
• Set up your DVR preferences now to capture every moment all preseason long.

Day one of preseason draws nearer. How will you personalize your 2026 NFL viewing experience with DirecTV’s tools and packages?