The 2026 NFL Draft runs April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, and you can watch NFL Draft 2026 free across multiple streaming platforms without paying for cable. Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 pick and are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner following Indiana’s national championship run.
Key Takeaways
- 2026 NFL Draft takes place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh across three days.
- Round 1 starts Thursday, April 23 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network.
- Stream free via fubo with a new subscriber trial, or use ESPN App and NFL+ with authentication.
- UK viewers can access free streaming through DAZN NFL Game Pass with account signup.
- Fernando Mendoza, Heisman winner, expected as Raiders’ No. 1 overall selection.
How to watch NFL Draft 2026 free in the US
The simplest way to watch NFL Draft 2026 free in the US is fubo, which carries ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network and offers a free trial for new subscribers. No cable subscription required. After the trial ends, fubo converts to a paid plan, so cancel before charges apply if you only want the draft.
ESPN App, Disney+, and Hulu also stream the draft with ESPN authentication. If you already subscribe to any of these services, you can log in and watch without additional cost. NFL+ provides streaming access to all three days for subscribers. For audio coverage, tune into SiriusXM NFL Radio, Westwood One Sports, or ESPN Radio.
US TV schedule and start times
Round 1 airs Thursday, April 23 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network. Rounds 2-3 follow Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. ET on the same channels. Rounds 4-7 conclude Saturday, April 25 at noon ET. Pacific Time viewers should note the 3-hour difference: Round 1 starts at 5 p.m. PT, Rounds 2-3 at 4 p.m. PT, and Rounds 4-7 at 9 a.m. PT.
How to watch NFL Draft 2026 free in the UK
UK viewers get the best free option through DAZN NFL Game Pass, which requires only a free account signup and covers all three days. Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event broadcast the draft starting at 1 a.m. Friday, April 24 UK time, with build-up coverage beforehand. For paid options, Sky Sports add-ons cost £22 per month or £35 monthly bundled with Netflix. NOW offers Day Membership for £14.99 or Monthly for £27.99 with no contract.
The free DAZN route eliminates subscription costs entirely for UK audiences, making it the most accessible option for casual viewers who want to catch the opening rounds without commitment.
Who’s expected to go No. 1 overall?
Fernando Mendoza, Indiana’s Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, is the consensus lock for the Las Vegas Raiders’ No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza led Indiana through a historic national championship run, cementing his status as the draft’s top prospect. The Raiders have publicly signaled quarterback as their priority, and Mendoza’s combination of arm talent and proven championship experience makes him the safest prediction in draft history.
Frequently asked questions
Can I watch the 2026 NFL Draft free without signing up for anything?
DAZN NFL Game Pass in the UK is completely free with just an account signup and no payment method required. In the US, fubo’s free trial requires account creation but no upfront payment. You’ll need to cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges.
What’s the difference between NFL+ and ESPN App streaming?
NFL+ is the league’s dedicated streaming service, while ESPN App requires existing ESPN or Disney+ authentication. Both carry all three days of the draft. NFL+ is subscription-based; ESPN App access depends on your existing cable or streaming service login.
Will the draft be available on social media?
The research brief does not specify social media streaming availability. Check the official NFL, ESPN, and your favorite team’s social channels closer to April 23 for potential clips and highlights, but live full-round coverage is concentrated on the platforms listed above.
The 2026 NFL Draft offers genuine free-streaming options across the US and UK, making it accessible without cable or expensive subscriptions. Fubo’s trial and DAZN’s free tier eliminate cost barriers entirely. Set your calendar for April 23-25 and pick your platform now—don’t wait until draft night to sort out streaming logistics.
This article was written with AI assistance and editorially reviewed.
Source: Tom's Guide
