Thursday Night Football has become a weekly staple for many sports fans, but confusion remains about where these games actually air. Is Thursday Night Football only on Prime, or are there other ways to watch.
Below is a quick reference that compares the main platforms, prices, and key restrictions for Thursday Night Football in the 2024 season.
| Platform | Included With | Extra Cost | Blackout Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prime Video | Prime membership | Thursday Night Football add-on ($7.99) | Yes, local games may be blacked out |
| NFL+ on CBS | Paramount+ Choice | None | Yes, local games may be blacked out |
| NFL+ on Fox | Fox Live, Fubo, DirecTV Stream | None | Yes, local games may be blacked out |
| Local Broadcast | Over-the-air antenna | None | No blackouts |
Thursday Night Football on Prime Video Details
Subscription and Add-On Requirements
To watch Thursday Night Football on Prime Video in 2024, you need an active Prime membership plus the separate Thursday Night Football add-on. The add-on costs $7.99 per game or can be bundled by season for convenience. Without the add-on, Prime members cannot access the Thursday night games.
Streaming Quality and Devices
The stream is delivered in 1080p on supported devices and supports popular platforms such as Fire TV, iPhone, Android, and most smart TVs. You can also download games for offline viewing on the Prime Video app when the add-on is active on your account.
Other Carriers Carrying Thursday Night Football
CBS, Fox, and NFL+ Apps
Thursday Night Football airs on CBS and Fox on a rotating basis, and both networks offer games through the NFL+ add-on inside Paramount+ and their own apps. If your local station does not broadcast a specific game, the NFL+ digital package is one way to see every matchup.
Local Over-The-Air Options
Many markets still show Thursday Night Football on local broadcast channels, which means an antenna can give you free access without additional subscriptions. Check your local listings in advance, as affiliate switches can move the exact channel each week.
Pricing and Access Options
Cost Breakdown by Platform
Prime Video requires both a Prime subscription and a per-game fee unless you buy a season-long add-on. Paramount+ and Fox platforms require a Paramount+ subscription but waive extra fees for NFL+ content, making this option appealing for fans who already subscribe.
Free Alternatives and Blackouts
Local channels provide the only completely free option, but blackouts on Prime and NFL+ can still affect viewers in teams' home markets. If you are in a contested market, you may need to use a VPN, check local affiliate schedules, or rely on NFL+ to see every game.
Key Takeaways for Thursday Night Football Viewers
- Prime Video carries the games but requires both Prime and a per-game add-on.
- CBS and Fox also air Thursday Night Football through NFL+ on Paramount+ and similar services.
- Local broadcast channels may offer free access without extra subscriptions.
- Blackout rules vary by market and platform, so check early in the season.
- Comparing costs and local affiliate schedules helps you choose the best option.
FAQ
Reader questions
Do I need Prime Video to watch Thursday Night Football if I already have cable?
You do not need Prime Video if you have cable or a streaming service that includes the NFL package. Many cable plans and live TV services include CBS and Fox, which carry Thursday Night Football without requiring the Prime ecosystem.
Can I watch Thursday Night Football for free on Prime Video?
No, Prime Video requires the Thursday Night Football add-on, which is not included with a standard Prime membership. Free access is only available through local broadcast channels in most markets.
Will Thursday Night Football always be on Prime Video in the future?
Amazon holds the rights through at least the current agreement, but future contracts could shift games to other services. It is a good idea to check league announcements each year to see which platform has the broadcast or digital rights.
What happens if my local team is playing on Thursday Night Football?
Local games may be blacked out on streaming add-ons, and you will need to watch on a local channel or use NFL+ on a supported platform to see the game. Blackouts do not affect over-the-air broadcasts in most cases.