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Can You Get NFL+ on Roku? Your Definitive Guide

Let’s cut to the chase: Yes, you can get NFL+ on Roku. However, the experience isn’t quite as straightforward as downloading an app directly from the Roku Channel Store, and there are nuances to understand. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about accessing NFL+ on your Roku device, the limitations you might encounter, and frequently asked questions to ensure you’re getting the most out of your football streaming experience.

Understanding NFL+ and its Availability

NFL+ is the official streaming service from the National Football League, designed primarily for mobile viewing and includes live local and primetime games on phones and tablets, live out-of-market preseason games, live game audio, and on-demand NFL programming. It’s important to distinguish NFL+ from other streaming services that carry NFL games, such as Paramount+ (for CBS games) or Amazon Prime Video (for Thursday Night Football).

The Roku Workaround: Screen Mirroring

While a dedicated NFL+ app isn’t directly available on the Roku Channel Store, you can access NFL+ content on your Roku through screen mirroring. This feature allows you to project your phone or tablet screen onto your TV, essentially turning your Roku into a display for your mobile device.

To utilize screen mirroring, your Roku device and your mobile device (phone or tablet) must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Steps to Screen Mirror NFL+ on Roku

Enable Screen Mirroring on Roku: Navigate to your Roku’s settings, usually found under “Settings” > “System” > “Screen mirroring”. Select “Screen mirroring mode” and ensure it’s set to either “Prompt” or “Always allow.”
Open NFL+ on your Mobile Device: Download the NFL app on your phone or tablet and subscribe to NFL+. Open the app and log in to your account.
Initiate Screen Mirroring: The process varies slightly depending on your device:
- Android: Open the Quick Settings panel (usually by swiping down from the top of the screen) and look for options like “Cast,” “Smart View,” “Screen Mirroring,” or “Wireless Display.” Select your Roku device from the list of available devices.
- iOS (iPhone/iPad): Open Control Center (swipe down from the top right corner of the screen for newer iPhones, or swipe up from the bottom for older models). Tap the “Screen Mirroring” icon (two overlapping rectangles). Select your Roku device from the list.
Start Streaming: Once mirroring is active, everything displayed on your mobile device will appear on your TV screen. Start playing content within the NFL+ app, and it will be mirrored to your Roku-connected TV.

Limitations and Considerations

While screen mirroring offers a workaround, it’s not without its drawbacks:

Battery Drain: Screen mirroring can drain your mobile device’s battery quickly. Keep your device plugged in while mirroring for extended viewing sessions.
Potential Lag: Depending on your Wi-Fi network, you might experience lag or buffering issues during mirroring. Ensure a stable and strong Wi-Fi connection.
Phone Usage Interruptions: Any notifications or phone calls on your mobile device will interrupt the mirrored content on your TV. It’s best to enable “Do Not Disturb” mode to avoid interruptions.
Lower Resolution (potentially): The resolution of the mirrored content may be limited by your mobile device or the mirroring technology, potentially resulting in a lower-quality picture than a dedicated Roku app.
Not a native experience: This is not the optimal viewing experience. It works in a pinch, but is definitely not ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NFL+ on Roku

1. Will NFL+ ever have a dedicated Roku app?

The NFL hasn’t officially announced plans for a dedicated NFL+ Roku app. The focus has been primarily on mobile viewing. However, given the popularity of Roku devices, it’s possible that an app could be developed in the future. Keep an eye on official NFL announcements for any updates.

2. Can I watch live NFL games on Roku through NFL+?

Yes, but with limitations. NFL+ primarily offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices (phones and tablets). Through screen mirroring, you can watch these games on your Roku-connected TV. However, it’s important to remember that the games are intended for mobile viewing, and streaming on a TV might not be the optimal experience.

3. What devices are compatible with Roku screen mirroring?

Most modern Android and iOS (iPhone/iPad) devices are compatible with Roku’s screen mirroring feature. Check your device’s specifications to confirm compatibility. Make sure your Roku device is also updated to the latest firmware version.

4. How do I troubleshoot screen mirroring issues with Roku?

If you’re experiencing issues with screen mirroring, try the following:

Restart both your Roku device and your mobile device.
Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Check your Roku’s screen mirroring settings and ensure mirroring is enabled.
Update your Roku’s firmware to the latest version.
Check your mobile device’s operating system and update if necessary.
Move closer to your Wi-Fi router to improve signal strength.
Ensure your Wi-Fi network isn’t overloaded with too many devices.

5. Can I use a USB-C to HDMI adapter to connect my phone to my TV instead of screen mirroring?

Yes, using a USB-C to HDMI adapter (for compatible Android devices) or a Lightning to HDMI adapter (for iPhones/iPads) is another way to connect your phone or tablet directly to your TV. This method often provides a more stable and higher-quality connection than screen mirroring and bypasses the need for Roku altogether. However, you need to purchase the appropriate adapter.

6. What content is included with an NFL+ subscription?

An NFL+ subscription typically includes live local and primetime games on mobile devices, live out-of-market preseason games, live game audio (all games), and on-demand NFL programming (highlights, replays, and original content). The specific content may vary depending on your subscription tier and location.

7. Is NFL+ worth it if I primarily want to watch on my TV?

If your primary viewing platform is your TV, NFL+ might not be the best value proposition. Its core offering is geared towards mobile users. Consider other streaming services that offer broader NFL coverage on TVs, such as Paramount+ (for CBS games), Amazon Prime Video (for Thursday Night Football), or a traditional cable/satellite subscription.

8. Can I cast NFL+ from my phone to Roku using Chromecast?

Technically, yes, but it depends on the app’s capabilities. If the NFL app supports Google Cast (Chromecast), you can cast the NFL+ stream from your phone to your Roku if you have a Chromecast device plugged into one of the HDMI ports. Ensure that your Roku is configured correctly with the Chromecast.

9. What is the difference between NFL+ and NFL Game Pass (now on YouTube TV)?

NFL Game Pass, now available through YouTube TV, offers access to replays of all regular season and postseason games, including the Super Bowl. NFL+ focuses on live local and primetime games on mobile devices, live out-of-market preseason games, and live game audio. NFL Game Pass provides full game replays, while NFL+ offers live mobile viewing and audio. NFL Game Pass is not a subscription service available for Roku directly and has to be accessed via YouTube TV.

10. Does NFL RedZone come with NFL+?

No, NFL RedZone is not included with the base NFL+ subscription. It is available as a separate add-on to NFL+ in the higher tier NFL+ Premium Subscription.

11. How much does NFL+ cost?

NFL+ has two tiers: NFL+ and NFL+ Premium. Prices can vary, so it’s best to check the official NFL website for the most up-to-date pricing information. NFL+ Premium includes additional features like ad-free full game replays and NFL RedZone, in addition to the standard NFL+ features.

12. Are there alternative ways to watch NFL games on Roku without NFL+?

Yes, several other services offer NFL games on Roku. Paramount+ streams CBS games, Amazon Prime Video streams Thursday Night Football, and services like FuboTV and YouTube TV offer comprehensive channel lineups that include ESPN, NFL Network, and local broadcast channels. Additionally, a traditional cable or satellite subscription with a Roku app provides access to live NFL games.