Betting News 
The NFL is set to kick off this week, and the American Gaming Association (AGA) is predicting that the 2024 season will be the most bet-on since sports betting was legalized nationwide in 2018. According to the AGA’s first official projection for this NFL season, American adults are expected to wager more than $35 billion at legal sportsbooks during the 2024 NFL season.
A Massive NFL Betting Season Ahead
If the AGA’s predictions hold, this year’s betting handle will surpass last year’s NFL season total of $26.7 billion. This massive jump in NFL wagering is based on data from states that separate handle and revenue totals between college and professional football.
Newcomers to the sports betting market—Maine, North Carolina, and Vermont—will contribute to this surge as they experience their first full season of NFL sports betting.
AGA President and CEO Bill Miller highlighted the importance of legal sports betting and consumer protection in a recent statement:
“With the excitement of another NFL season upon us, Americans are placing their bets with confidence, knowing the legal sports betting market prioritizes consumer protection and responsibility. As the season unfolds, the AGA and our members remain dedicated to working with the league, regulators, and other stakeholders to ensure fans have the knowledge and tools to keep sports betting a safe, fun part of the gameday experience.”
Responsible Gaming Remains a Priority
The AGA also shared insights into the growing emphasis on responsible gaming. Recent data shows that 90% of past-year sports bettors consider it important that their chosen sportsbook is legal and regulated, while 88% believe the industry is committed to responsible gaming practices. Additionally, 96% of past-year bettors are familiar with at least one responsible gaming resource.
Can ESPN BET Capitalize on the NFL Betting Surge?
The AGA’s optimistic estimates could be beneficial for ESPN BET, which is looking to gain momentum during its first full NFL season. ESPN BET, owned by PENN Entertainment, faces an important few months as it competes against DraftKings and FanDuel, the current market leaders.
A critical move for ESPN BET would be launching its platform in New York, the largest sports betting market in the U.S. Although PENN Entertainment CEO Jay Snowden previously said ESPN BET would launch in late August, this has yet to happen.
If ESPN BET hopes to start the season strong, launching in New York ahead of the NFL season will be a crucial first step in positioning itself as a top player in the growing online sports betting industry.
