NFL fans are witnessing a significant shift in how they watch their favorite teams. ESPN+ has emerged as a prominent streaming service for sports enthusiasts. Notably, it's now home to exclusive games that you can't watch through traditional TV channels. One such game in 2025 puts ESPN+ at the center of Monday Night Football (MNF) coverage.

Why Is Seahawks vs. Texans Only on ESPN+?

The 2025 NFL season introduces a major change for fans of the Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans. Their only Monday Night Football showdown is exclusive to ESPN+—and not available on conventional cable networks. According to Field Gulls, this move continues a trend where streaming platforms, like ESPN+, secure exclusive rights to select primetime games. This model started in 2022 when ESPN+ hosted the Broncos vs. Jaguars, followed by the Chargers and Cardinals last year. In 2025, fans wanting to watch Seahawks vs. Texans must subscribe to the streaming service or rely on local affiliate channels in the Seattle or Houston area.

How Much Does ESPN+ Cost?

Access to ESPN+ isn’t free. Subscriptions are priced at $11.99 per month, or $119.99 for the year. This is separate from any packages you might have with ESPN’s new All-Access streaming tier, which has its own cost. While this paywall may frustrate some viewers, it reflects the modern trend of networks seeking new revenue streams through digital services.

What If You Don’t Have ESPN+?

Fans living outside Seattle or Houston will need an ESPN+ subscription to tune in. However, as highlighted by Sports Illustrated, the game is simulcast on local affiliates for both cities. This provides some relief for local fans, who can still catch the action without paying extra. For everyone else, subscribing to ESPN+ is the main option. There are very few legal workarounds for the "ESPN blockade," making this an important consideration for die-hard NFL followers.

Implications for NFL Fans and the Industry

This exclusive partnership illustrates a shift in media consumption habits. More NFL games are moving behind digital paywalls, with streaming platforms like ESPN+ playing a critical role. As the NFL and ESPN+ deepen their collaboration, fans should expect more exclusive events in the future. This approach benefits streaming services and rights holders, but it also means viewers need to weigh the value of various subscriptions.

Conclusion: Is ESPN+ Worth It for NFL Fans?

If you’re a Seahawks or Texans fan, or simply don’t want to miss any major NFL action, ESPN+ may now be essential. The platform’s exclusive coverage, especially of games as important as MNF matchups, makes it hard to ignore. As broadcast trends evolve, staying informed about changes like these is vital. Consider checking the latest schedules and coverage plans on trusted sources like Field Gulls or Sports Illustrated to stay ahead.

Be sure to review your viewing needs and budget before deciding if ESPN+ is the right fit for your sports entertainment lineup. The way we watch live sports is changing—make sure you don’t miss the plays that matter most.