American Gaming Association predicts $35bn will be wagered on upcoming NFL season
Trade body estimates a $9bn increase in the amount of legal wagering on the 2024 season due to state launches and public perception of the sector
The American Gaming Association (AGA) has predicted that US-based adults will wager $35bn (£26.6bn) with legal sports betting operators on the upcoming NFL season due to the “continued expansion and maturation” of the sector.
The trade body said the 2024 season will be the most legally wagered-on campaign since sports betting was legalized in the US in 2018.
According to separate AGA analysis following the conclusion of the 2023 NFL season, US sports bettors wagered $26.7bn through licensed operators.
The 2024 season estimates mark the first time the AGA has given a pre-season prediction.
They came after three new states went live with sports betting since the start of the 2023 season, in the shape of Maine (November 2023), Vermont (January 2024), and North Carolina (March 2024).
The AGA’s methodology to reach the $35bn figure involved data from states that break out handle by sport and then a further split between college and professional football.
The AGA then applied “multi-year averages of the annual share of national handle from March [to] February” to project a total football handle estimate.
Alongside the expected spike in NFL betting, AGA data identified that support from the public towards the industry was also on the rise.
Research conducted by Kantar claimed that 90% of those who placed sports bets within the past year believed it was important the sportsbook they use is legal and regulated, while 88% of sports bettors felt the regulated industry is committed to responsible gaming and looking to tackle problem gambling.
There was also a two-percentage-point increase in the number of Americans agreeing with the effectiveness of responsible gambling programs, rising to 85%.
Bill Miller, AGA president and CEO, said: “With the excitement of another NFL season upon us, Americans are placing their bets with the confidence that the legal sports betting market is prioritizing consumer protection and responsibility.
“As the season unfolds, the AGA and our members remain dedicated to working with leagues, regulators, and other stakeholders to ensure fans have the knowledge and tools to keep sports betting a safe, fun part of the gameday experience.”