As the NFL prepares to kick off its schedule next week, gamblers are poring over spreadsheets, reading wagering guides, and getting ready for arguably the launch of the most popular betting season in the United States.
According to an American Gaming Association news release Thursday, Americans are expected to wager an estimated $30 billion on the upcoming 2025 NFL season through legal U.S. sportsbooks. That is an 8.5% increase over last season’s revised estimated handle of $27.6 billion.
As fans prepare for NFL football wagering, the AGA reminds bettors to adhere to principles of its “Have a Game Plan. Bet Responsibly” campaign.
“This season, fans have more ways than ever to responsibly engage with the game they love. Legal sports betting enhances the fun and friendly competition that make NFL games and traditions even more special,” AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said in a statement. “With strong consumer protections and a shared commitment to responsibility, the legal, regulated sports betting industry encourages all footballs fans to have a game plan before placing a bet and ensure their gameday experience – regardless of the outcome of a bet or the game – remains enjoyable.”
“Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly” encourages responsible sports betting and promotes five key principles:
- Set a Budget and Stick to It: Determine how much you are willing to spend and never chase losses.
- Keep it Social: Betting should be a form of entertainment shared with friends and family.
- Know the Odds: Understand the games and your chances of winning.
- Play Legally: Use regulated, legal betting platforms.
- Keep Your Cool: Athlete harassment is never acceptable, and good sportsmanship is for everyone.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018, 38 states and Washington, D.C. offer consumers regulated options to wager on sports. According to the AGA, Americans’ support for legal sports betting remains strong, with 75% of Americans supporting legal sports wagering in their home state, and 90% viewing sports betting as an acceptable form of entertainment.
This year’s estimate is based on national handle growth to date in 2025 applied to last year’s estimated NFL season total, along with football-specific reporting from select states used to calculate the share of wagers expected on professional football.
The estimate includes preseason games, futures booked as early as March, the playoffs, and Super Bowl LX in February 2026.