The rise of streaming services in sports broadcasting has fundamentally changed how fans watch their favorite teams. In the center of this shift stands ESPN+, which continues to expand its coverage and exclusive content—especially for NFL games. This article explores what ESPN+ offers, its evolving role in NFL broadcasting, and what it means for viewers in the 2025 season.

What is ESPN+ and How Has It Changed NFL Viewing?

ESPN+ is a paid subscription streaming service designed for sports enthusiasts who want more than traditional cable can deliver. It offers live games, original shows, and exclusive events unavailable anywhere else. With a current price of $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year, subscribers get access to a growing lineup of sports content. However, this comes with a twist for NFL fans: some high-stakes games are now only accessible via the ESPN+ paywall.

Exclusive NFL Games: The 2025 Seahawks vs. Texans Matchup

For the 2025 NFL season, ESPN+ is streaming one exclusive regular season game: the Seattle Seahawks vs. Houston Texans. This matchup represents more than a new chapter in the NFL schedule; it highlights the increasing importance of streaming platforms in sports media.

According to Field Gulls, "the Seahawks will be on Monday Night Football just once this season, hosting the Houston Texans on October 20, and it’s live on ESPN+." As part of the recent Monday Night Football contract, ESPN+ receives one game each season as a streaming exclusive. This allows ESPN+ to draw more subscribers, but it also creates challenges for some fans, who must now pay for another service to watch key games.

Why Are NFL Games Moving to ESPN+?

Since 2022, the NFL and ESPN+ have worked together to make certain games exclusive to the streaming platform. The strategy started with the Broncos vs. Jaguars in London. In 2024, it was the Chargers vs. Cardinals. Now, in 2025, it's the Seahawks vs. Texans in a pivotal Week 7 encounter. As Sports Illustrated’s Seahawks channel explains, this trend is all about revenue and audience growth. However, local fans can still catch the game on their affiliate channels in Seattle or Houston.

This approach aims to drive ESPN+ subscriptions by offering content that is not available elsewhere. It also mirrors changes being seen with other platforms like Peacock and Netflix, as the sports industry pivots to on-demand, internet-based viewing.

ESPN+ Subscription: Costs and Considerations

While streaming exclusives excite some fans, others may hesitate at the rising costs. ESPN+ requires a separate subscription, even from other ESPN or cable offerings. As Field Gulls points out, "If you live in the Seattle or Houston area, this game will still be simulcast on local affiliates, and you won’t have to subscribe to ESPN+ at all." For everyone else, accessing headline games means budgeting for yet another service.

Is ESPN+ Worth It for NFL Fans?

The answer depends on your viewing habits. If your favorite team lands on one of these streaming exclusives, a monthly subscription may be worth it. Plus, ESPN+ offers more than just football—there’s UFC, soccer, college sports, and original programming. Yet, as more games become exclusive to ESPN+, traditional fans may need to adapt or risk missing out.

What’s Next for Fans?

The 2025 Seahawks vs. Texans matchup will be the back-end of a doubleheader, kicking off at 7 PM PT—the latest in Seahawks history. If both teams perform as expected, it could be one of the most exciting games of the season. To follow all updates on team performance and schedules, check out additional Seahawks coverage from Sports Illustrated.

Conclusion: The Future of Football on Streaming

ESPN+ is leading the way in exclusive sports streaming and shaping how fans experience the NFL. As the league explores new ways to connect with viewers, expect more games and content to move behind paid digital platforms. If you want to catch every big moment, staying up-to-date with ESPN+ and other services may be essential.