How to Stream ESPN on Sling: Watch ‘Monday Night Football,’ College Football and More for $19. 99 a Month
Sling TV’s new Essentials package lets sports fans stream ESPN and ESPN2 for just $19.99 a month, a cheaper alternative to ESPN’s own plans. The bundle also includes Disney Channel, Freeform, Hallmark Mystery, and 50 hours of DVR storage. For deeper college coverage, Sling offers add‑ons like Sport…
As the fall sports season kicks off, fans looking to stream ESPN’s flagship channels are facing a price hike. From September 17, ESPN’s standalone Unlimited plan will rise from $29.99 to $31.99 per month, while the annual subscription climbs from $299.99 to $319.99. The lower‑tier ESPN Select will also see a bump, moving from $12.99 to $13.99 monthly and from $129.99 to $139.99 annually. For many viewers, the increased cost has prompted a search for more affordable alternatives.
Sling TV’s New Essentials Package
Sling TV has responded by launching a new Essentials bundle that includes ESPN and ESPN2 for only $19.99 a month. The package also adds more than ten other channels, such as Disney Channel, Freeform, and Hallmark Mystery, and gives subscribers 50 hours of cloud DVR storage. The lower price point makes it an attractive option for anyone who wants to keep up with the big games without paying the full ESPN price.
Unlike ESPN’s own plans, which focus on a single channel or a small group of sports networks, Sling’s Essentials bundle offers a broader entertainment mix. This can be especially appealing to households that want to watch sports and family programming on the same platform.
College Football and Extra Sports Options
College football is a major draw for the 2026‑27 season, with ESPN’s networks scheduled to air more than 1,000 games across ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, ACC Network, and other channels. The Essentials package gives fans access to ESPN and ESPN2, but those who want deeper coverage can add the Sports Extra add‑on for an additional $11 per month. That add‑on brings SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPNU, and ESPNEWS into the mix, raising the total monthly cost to $30.99.
For fans who want a more comprehensive college experience, Sling also offers a Season Pass option that bundles in the same sports channels for the entire college football season. This pass can be a cost‑effective way to catch every SEC and ACC matchup without committing to a full ESPN subscription.
Other Sports Highlights on ESPN
ESPN remains the home of Monday Night Football, with the New York Giants set to face the Los Angeles Rams on September 21 at 8:15 p.m. ET. The following week, the Philadelphia Eagles will take on the Chicago Bears. ESPN2 will also carry the alternate “ManningCast” for selected Monday Night Football games, providing a different viewing angle for fans who want to hear commentary from former NFL stars.
Baseball fans will find plenty to watch as the MLB postseason heats up. ESPN will air a doubleheader on September 23 featuring the Cleveland Guardians versus the Boston Red Sox at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the Houston Astros against the Seattle Mariners at 10 p.m. ET. The network’s “Baseball Tonight” programming will provide analysis and highlights around these marquee matchups.
In basketball, ESPN continues to be a national partner for the WNBA. The league returns from its FIBA World Cup break this week and will finish its regular season on September 24, with playoffs beginning on September 27. Disney’s ESPN and ABC networks will cover two first‑round playoff series and one semifinal series.
Beyond live games, ESPN offers a year‑round slate of studio shows that keep fans engaged throughout the week. Programs such as “SportsCenter,” “Get Up,” “First Take,” “NFL Live,” “The Pat McAfee Show,” “Pardon the Interruption,” and “College GameDay” provide pre‑game coverage, post‑game reactions, highlights, interviews, and in‑depth analysis.
What’s Next for Sling TV Subscribers?
With the Essentials package in place, Sling TV subscribers can enjoy a wide range of sports content without the higher price tag of ESPN’s own plans. The addition of Sports Extra and the Season Pass gives fans flexibility to tailor their viewing experience to their interests, whether they’re focused on college football, baseball, or basketball.
As the sports calendar continues to unfold, Sling TV’s competitive pricing and channel lineup position it as a viable alternative for households that want comprehensive sports coverage without breaking the bank. For those who need even more specialized content, the platform’s add‑ons allow for a highly customizable viewing experience.
To start streaming ESPN on Sling TV, simply sign up for the Essentials package, add any desired sports add‑ons, and enjoy live games, studio shows, and on‑demand content across multiple devices.
Why it matters
The rise in ESPN’s subscription costs forces many sports fans to look for cheaper alternatives. Sling TV’s Essentials package offers a budget‑friendly way to access the same flagship channels and additional entertainment, making it a practical choice for households that want comprehensive sports coverage without the higher price tag.
Key points
- Sling TV’s Essentials bundle streams ESPN and ESPN2 for $19.99/month
- The package includes Disney Channel, Freeform, Hallmark Mystery, and 50 hours of DVR storage
- Sports Extra add‑on adds SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPNU, and ESPNEWS for $11/month
- College football season features over 1,000 games across ESPN’s network lineup
- ESPN covers Monday Night Football, MLB doubleheader, WNBA playoffs, and studio shows
Frequently asked questions
How much does Sling TV’s Essentials package cost?
The Essentials bundle is priced at $19.99 per month and includes ESPN, ESPN2, and more than ten other channels.
Can I add more sports channels to Sling TV?
Yes, you can add Sports Extra for an additional $11 per month, which brings SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPNU, and ESPNEWS into your lineup.
Is there a DVR option with the Essentials package?
Subscribers receive 50 hours of cloud DVR storage with the Essentials bundle.
