According to the American Gaming Association (AGA), Americans are projected to place approximately $30 billion in bets on the 2025 NFL season via licensed sportsbooks. This represents an 8.5% rise compared to the previous year’s estimated total of $27.6 billion.
Bill Miller, the President and CEO of AGA, shared insights on the association’s findings: “Fans now have unprecedented options to engage responsibly with their favorite games. The legality of sports betting enriches the enjoyment and camaraderie associated with NFL games and traditions, providing an even more captivating experience.”
“With robust consumer safeguards and a collective commitment to responsible betting, the legally regulated sports betting environment encourages football enthusiasts to devise a strategy prior to wagering, ensuring their gameday is enjoyable regardless of the bet’s outcome or the game’s result.”
The AGA’s national initiative, Have A Game Plan®. Bet Responsibly™, emphasizes five essential principles. Bettors are encouraged to establish a budget and adhere to it, maintain a social betting atmosphere, comprehend the odds, utilize only licensed platforms, and refrain from harassing athletes.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned PASPA in 2018, 38 states along with Washington, D.C. have authorized sports betting. Public backing remains robust, as 75% of Americans support legal betting in their states, and 90% consider it an acceptable entertainment option, as indicated by AGA data.
This year’s estimate is derived from the current national betting growth for 2025, applied to last season’s figures, alongside football-specific reporting from selected states to estimate expected wagering on professional football. This includes preseason games, futures set as early as March, playoffs, and Super Bowl LX, slated for February 2026.
A survey conducted by the National Council on Problem Gambling indicates that prevalent gambling issues have stabilized following a significant increase from 2018 to 2021, which was largely triggered by the pandemic and the swift expansion of sports betting in the U.S.
Additionally, leagues and players’ unions have reported an uptick in online threats directed at athletes, coaches, and officials. The NFL’s security team actively monitors social media, oversees platforms, and conducts background checks on individuals making threats.
The season kicks off on September 4th, featuring the Cowboys taking on the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.