The American Gaming Association (AGA) is projecting that the legal sports betting handle for the upcoming NFL season will reach an all-time high of $35 billion. This estimate represents a significant 30% increase from last year’s handle of $26.7 billion. The surge in projected wagers is attributed to the expansion of sportsbooks in states like Vermont, North Carolina, and Maine, as well as the relaunch of Hard Rock Bet in Florida midway through the 2023 season following a legal dispute that temporarily halted its operations.
With the NFL season set to kick off at Arrowhead Stadium with a match between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens, residents of 38 states and Washington D.C. now have the opportunity to legally place bets on the games. This widespread access to legal sports betting has fueled anticipation for a record-breaking season.
Industry experts and executives from major sportsbook operators like FanDuel and DraftKings have emphasized the pivotal role that the NFL season plays in driving customer engagement and revenue. FanDuel President Christian Genetski described the NFL season as the operator’s “biggest acquisition period of the year,” while DraftKings highlighted the league’s popularity in generating high bet volumes and total handle.
In anticipation of the upcoming NFL season, many sportsbooks are rolling out enticing promotions to attract new customers and retain existing ones. These promotions are aimed at enhancing the overall betting experience and incentivizing users to place more bets on the games.
AGA CEO and President Bill Miller underscored the importance of prioritizing consumer protection and responsible gambling in the legal sports betting market. As Americans gear up to place their wagers on the NFL games, Miller reassured them that the industry is committed to ensuring a safe and regulated betting environment.
Overall, the projected $35 billion handle for the upcoming NFL season signals a growing enthusiasm for sports betting in the United States. With the expansion of legal sportsbooks and the increasing accessibility of betting options, fans across the country are eagerly anticipating a thrilling and potentially lucrative season ahead.