If you’re following the NFL season anyway, free pick ems are a fun way to make some money here and there. It doesn’t take expert-level sports betting analysis to win, especially if you focus on winning weekly prizes (playing a little more aggressive/risky) rather than the overall season, I’ve won at least a little something every year I’ve done these. Best prize ever was $1000 in free play for winning a week (at a casino kiosk, not online) but I’ve also scored $100 cash a couple times, $100 in free pizza, Buffalo Wild Wings and Lids gift cards, and beaucoup free casino meals.
The list will be updated as contests are confirmed / if I discover more. The first game this year is September 5th, but some contests include Thursday night games and some don’t.
All contests are completely free to enter and play, but have some sort of real prizes for weekly and/or overall season winners.
Confirmed for 2024
Rotoballer (access through an ESPN account)
CBS Sports Football Pick ‘Em 2024
DraftKings Dynasty Pick ‘Em
NFL.com (residents of Canada only)
Action Network Favorites Contest
Local papers and radio stations often run their own pick ’em contests via their websites (frequently using Second Street or Upickem software). They may or may not require proof of regional residence to get the prizes though, check the fine print. An example that’s active for 2024 is the Las Vegas Review-Journal Pick ‘Em.
Unconfirmed
(These sites/apps have had contests in prior years but have not yet posted anything for 2024)
NBC Sports Predictor (mobile app only)
Underdog Fantasy
Buffalo Wild Wings