According to research conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Gaming Association (AGA), a record-breaking 46.6 million American adults (18 percent) have expressed their intention to bet on the upcoming National Football League (NFL) season. This represents a three percent increase compared to the previous year. Notably, as the NFL season coincides with Responsible Gaming Education Month, the research highlights that 92 percent of U.S. sports bettors are aware of responsible gaming tools and initiatives. The findings demonstrate the growing popularity of legal sports betting and the public’s appreciation for the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming practices.
Increasing Interest in NFL Betting
The significant increase in the number of American adults planning to bet on the NFL season highlights the continued growth and maturation of the legal sports betting industry. AGA President and CEO Bill Miller attributes this sustained interest to the availability of legal sports betting options and the industry’s commitment to responsible gambling. As more states legalize sports betting, bettors are shifting away from illegal bookies and towards regulated options.
Shift Towards Regulated Betting Options
The research reveals that 23 million American adults plan to place bets online during the upcoming NFL season, representing an 18 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, six million adults plan to place bets in-person at sportsbooks, indicating a two percent increase. Interestingly, the use of bookies has declined, with only 13 percent of NFL bettors opting for this option, down two points from the previous year and five points from 2020. It is worth noting that bookie usage is significantly higher in states without legalized sports betting.
Consumer Confidence in Regulated Sportsbooks
The research highlights the growing confidence of consumers in regulated sportsbooks. Over half of American adults (132 million) are now legally able to wager in their home states, an increase of 18 million from the previous year. The findings indicate that nine out of ten past-year sports bettors consider it important to bet with a legal and regulated sportsbook. These statistics demonstrate the importance of consumer protections and the role they play in building a sustainable and trusted marketplace.
Responsible Gaming Commitments
The AGA’s research emphasizes the industry’s focus on responsible gaming initiatives. The study reveals that 90 percent of past-year sports bettors recall seeing or hearing about responsible gaming in the past year, and 51 percent observed an increase in responsible gaming information compared to previous years. The majority of past-year sports bettors consider responsible gaming programs to be effective (82 percent) and view the gaming industry as committed to encouraging responsible gaming and addressing problem gambling (81 percent). This commitment to responsible gaming serves as a competitive advantage for the regulated sports betting industry.
The research conducted by the American Gaming Association indicates a significant surge in interest among American adults planning to bet on the NFL season. The increase in legal sports betting options, along with the industry’s responsible gaming initiatives, has contributed to this growth. The findings highlight the shift towards regulated sportsbooks and the decline in the use of bookies. As more states legalize sports betting, consumer confidence in regulated options continues to rise. The industry’s commitment to responsible gaming practices strengthens its position in the market, ensuring a safe and enjoyable betting experience for all.