NFL fans are more connected than ever, and the numbers prove it. According to Verizon’s annual Consumer Connections report, mobile data consumption at NFL stadiums surged by 37% in the 2024 season compared to 2023, reaching an astonishing 960 terabytes. Whether it’s streaming instant replays, making cashless transactions, or posting on social media, fans are using their phones more than ever during live games.
Streaming And Calls On The Rise
Video streaming accounted for 25% of all mobile data usage at NFL stadiums. Fans aren’t just watching the action live; they are reliving big plays instantly, checking highlights, and sharing their own game-day experiences online. In addition to streaming, call time at stadiums also saw an 8% increase, hitting 4.3 million minutes. Fans are not just watching but engaging- whether calling friends, checking fantasy football updates, or keeping up with other games.
Monday Night Football Leads In Data Usage
Monday night games were the biggest data consumers, averaging 4 terabytes per game- higher than the 3.6 terabytes used during Sunday matchups. The trend suggests that prime-time games attract more engaged fans, who are eager to document and share their experience more actively.
Our 2nd annual Consumer Connections Report is here — full of insights that help us understand and serve our customers better in the moments that matter.
— Hans Vestberg (@hansvestberg) February 4, 2025
Click below to access the report and check out stats from the 2024-2025 #NFL season, like what match-up saw the highest data… pic.twitter.com/SRLSs3ee1o
Top NFL Stadiums For Data Consumption
AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, led all NFL venues in mobile data usage. With its massive seating capacity of 80,000- more than 100,000 with standing-room areas- it saw 6.2 terabytes of data consumed in 2024, an 11% jump from the previous year.
U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis ranked second, witnessing a dramatic 60% increase, reaching 5.6 terabytes of data used. On the other end, Lambeau Field in Green Bay recorded the lowest total at 1.9 terabytes, though it still saw a 28% rise compared to 2023.
Incredible. According to Verizon, fans used 960TB of data in NFL Stadiums in 2024. That's up 37% per game, versus last season. pic.twitter.com/yj9nqUANLO
— Alex Maxham (@alexmaxham) February 4, 2025
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Also Read: Best NFL Stadiums: A Complete Travel Guide For Fans
NFC Stadiums Outpace AFC In Mobile Usage
Verizon’s report shows an interesting trend: NFC stadiums recorded 24% more data consumption than AFC venues. Whether it’s due to infrastructure differences, larger fan bases, or more engaged digital interactions, NFC games seem to be driving higher mobile engagement.
NFL Stadiums Go Mobile-First
The increased data usage isn’t just about entertainment- it’s about convenience. Most NFL stadiums have transitioned to mobile-first operations, where tickets, parking passes, and even concessions are handled via smartphones. Many venues now operate fully contactless payment systems, forcing fans to rely on mobile wallets and apps for transactions. This shift has further driven up data usage as more game-day activities become digital.
Live sports command attention like nothing else.
— Scott Bouska (@sbouska2) February 4, 2025
• 72% of fans use social media while watching
• Ads get 11% higher attention than regular TV
• Creates real-time community engagement
The NFL knows this. That's why they signed $110 billion in media rights. pic.twitter.com/QaPlmyX1sn
5G Expansion Enhances NFL Stadium Experience
With the continued rollout of 5G networks, mobile connectivity at NFL games is stronger than ever. Verizon’s 10-year partnership with the NFL, which began in 2021, ensures that fans have high-speed, reliable wireless services inside stadiums. This partnership not only enhances the fan experience but also supports communication among coaches, team personnel, and stadium staff.
Fans Are More Connected Than Ever
NFL stadiums aren’t just places to watch football- they’ve become digital hubs. Fans are streaming, posting, calling, and engaging with the game in ways never seen before. As technology advances and mobile integration deepens, stadiums will continue to see soaring data usage, making connectivity an essential part of the modern game-day experience.
Also Read: How Many NFL Stadiums Are There With Domes? A Look At Indoor And Outdoor NFL Stadiums
