The National Football League is not only the most watched sport in the United States but also the most popular to bet on. Every fall and winter, millions of fans look for ways to add a little extra excitement to the games by placing wagers on their favorite teams and players. Since the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, states have been free to decide whether to legalize sports wagering, and many have embraced it. Today, betting on the NFL is legal and accessible in much of the country, though the rules and availability differ depending on where you live. Understanding how NFL betting works, where it is permitted, and how to approach it responsibly is the first step for anyone interested in getting involved.
Legal framework for sports betting
For many decades, sports betting in the US was severely restricted by federal laws and state laws. One major law was the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. That act essentially banned sports betting nationwide, with very few exceptions.
In May 2018, the US Supreme Court in Murphy v. NCAA struck down PASPA, ruling that it was unconstitutional for the federal government to prevent states from authorizing sports betting. This meant that states regained power to decide whether to legalize sports betting within their borders.
Since then many states have moved to legalize both in-person (retail) and online (mobile) sports betting, though the extent of authorization, regulation, and what forms are allowed vary substantially state by state.
Federal laws like the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) still play a role: they regulate how payments are handled, especially across state lines, but do not themselves ban state-authorized sports betting.
Where betting on the NFL is legal (and where it isn’t)
As of 2025, about 39 states plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico have legalized sports betting in some form.
Of those, roughly 31 or so allow online (mobile) sports betting, which lets users place bets via apps or websites. Others only allow retail or in-person sportsbooks.
States that don’t allow legal sports betting at all remain, though they are fewer. Examples include Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, and California, though in some of these there are ongoing debates or ballot initiatives depending on the specific regulations.
Even in states where sports betting is legal there are often restrictions: minimum age, which is commonly 21 though some states allow 18, limits on betting on certain sports or in-state college teams, restrictions on advertising, and regulatory oversight to ensure money being bet is handled securely.
How to bet on the NFL legally
If you’re in a state where sports betting is legal and you want to bet on the NFL, here are the steps you should follow to make sure you do everything above board. Confirm your state allows legal sports betting, and whether online/mobile or just retail. Check the state gaming commission or regulatory body website. Use a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated in your state. Licensed sportsbooks need to follow rules about protecting your funds, ensuring fair odds, and verifying identity. Register with that sportsbook. You’ll typically need to prove your age and location, because online sportsbooks must ensure you are physically located in a legal jurisdiction. Deposit funds in a legal manner. Licensed sportsbooks offer legal payment methods and regulated withdrawals. Be wary of offshore sites which may not be legal or safe. Place your bets in allowed bet types such as point spreads, moneylines, totals, futures, props, or live in-game betting. What is available depends on the sportsbook and the state rules.
A quicker way to find the best NFL betting sites is to look at reviews from the experts who cover the industry, let you know where you can and can’t bet on the NFL and provide you with all the options.
Tips for betting on the NFL
If you decide to place bets, here are some tips to increase your chances, or at least to avoid common pitfalls. Know your bet types well. Understanding point spreads, moneylines, totals, parlays, prop bets, and futures is essential. Some bets are riskier than others. Parlay bets combine multiple wagers; they can payout big but are much harder to hit.
Shop for good odds. Different sportsbooks may have slightly different odds or “juice” (the fee or margin built in). Over time those small differences can add up.
Manage your bankroll. Only bet money you can afford to lose. Set aside a budget for betting, don’t chase losses, and avoid making rash bets after bad outcomes.
Do your research. The NFL has a lot of data: team stats, player injuries, weather conditions, schedules, and travel. Lines often move based on new information, so get good info and act early if you spot value.
Understand line movement. Odds will shift as money comes in on one side or due to injuries or news. Sometimes betting early gets better value. Sometimes waiting helps if you have insight into impending changes.
Use promotions, bonuses, and loyalty programs. Many legal sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses, odds boosts, and refund offers. These can provide added value but watch the terms such as wagering requirements and eligible games.
Don’t overdo parlays. While parlays can be tempting for their high payout, they are much tougher to win. Putting together many results means many chances to lose.
Stay aware of legal and tax obligations. Winnings from legal sportsbooks are taxable income in the US. Also be mindful of local laws: some states require reporting and some have specific rules on what is and isn’t allowed.
Bet responsibly. Gambling can be addictive. If you think it’s becoming a problem, there are resources for help.
Final Comments
Betting on the NFL is legal in many parts of the US, though whether in person or online, or which bets are allowed, depends heavily on your state. Since the 2018 Supreme Court decision overturning PASPA, states have had the freedom to legalize and regulate sports betting. If you’re going to bet, make sure you’re using a licensed and legal site, understand the rules and types of bets, manage your money carefully, and take advantage of promotions.
