The 2025 NFL season kicks off on September 4 with the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles hosting the Dallas Cowboys. For investors, this isn’t just football – it’s a financial playbook.
The NFL commands the largest share of US sports betting volume, and with 38 states now legalizing some form of sports wagering, the season’s kickoff marks a surge in user engagement, betting activity, and platform revenues.
Sportsbooks see a spike in app downloads, active users, and betting handle during the NFL’s opening weeks. That makes now a prime time to position in the sector.
Below are two top sports betting stocks poised to benefit from the NFL frenzy.
DraftKings Inc (NASDAQ: DKNG)
DraftKings is the second-largest online sportsbook in the U.S., commanding roughly 25% market share.
With operations in 25 states and Washington, DC, it’s a pure digital play – no brick-and-mortar distractions, just scalable tech and aggressive user acquisition.
The company added 3 million active users in 2024 alone, a testament to its marketing muscle and product stickiness. As the NFL season begins, DKNG typically sees a surge in betting volume, especially around marquee matchups and fantasy contests.
Financially, the company is turning a corner. Revenue growth has been robust, and EBITDA margins are improving. In 2025, DraftKings plans to introduce a tax surcharge in high-tax states, a move aimed at protecting profitability.
While this could slightly dent market share, it signals a shift toward sustainable earnings. Analysts remain bullish, citing its dominant brand, expanding casino offerings, and potential for international growth.
Wall Street currently has a consensus “overweight” rating on DKGN shares with a mean target calling for upside to roughly $55. For investors seeking exposure to the NFL betting boom, DraftKings stock is a front-runner.
Flutter Entertainment Plc (NYSE: FLUT)
Flutter Entertainment, the parent company of FanDuel, is the undisputed leader in US online sports betting, with a commanding 48% market share.
FanDuel’s dominance is especially pronounced during the NFL season, when its intuitive interface, aggressive promotions, and same-game parlays attract millions of bettors.
Operating in 24 states, FanDuel is often the first app downloaded by new users, giving Flutter a powerful funnel for customer acquisition.
Beyond the US, Flutter’s global footprint adds resilience. It leads in the UK and Ireland, and its Australian brand SportsBet holds 45% market share. This geographic diversification cushions against regulatory shocks and seasonal dips.
Flutter’s reinvestment strategy – plowing profits back into marketing and tech – has paid off with consistent top-line growth. As the NFL season kicks off, expect FanDuel to dominate headlines and betting volumes.
Wall Street currently rates FLUT shares at “overweight” as well. For investors, Flutter stock offers both scale and stability, making it a compelling pick for the sports betting surge.
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