Eilers and Krejcik Gaming Projects Regulated Sportsbook NFL Handle at $31.7 Billion for 2026

Analysts at Eilers and Krejcik Gaming released projections showing regulated sportsbooks handling $31.7 billion in NFL wagers during the 2026 season while prediction markets account for $8.4 billion in the same category. These figures establish a 79 percent share for traditional sportsbooks and a 21 percent share for prediction market platforms. The report also includes an 8 percent year-over-year increase in NFL handle for regulated sportsbooks compared with prior seasons.

Breakdown of the 2026 NFL Handle Projections

Observers note that the $31.7 billion sportsbook figure covers state-licensed operators operating across multiple jurisdictions while the $8.4 billion prediction market total reflects platforms offering event contracts tied to NFL outcomes. The combined $40.1 billion in projected NFL handle places traditional operators well ahead despite continued expansion of prediction market offerings. Data from the EKG analysis places the 79-to-21 split in clear context when measured against total projected volume for the league.

Researchers tracking year-over-year changes found the forecasted 8 percent growth in sportsbook NFL handle aligns with broader patterns of market maturation in states that have maintained legalized wagering frameworks for several seasons. The projection accounts for both in-person and mobile channels operating under existing regulatory structures. Figures released by EKG do not include estimates for unregulated or offshore activity.

Context Within Broader Market Trends

Industry participants have tracked the rise of prediction markets through platforms that structure contracts around game results and player statistics. Yet the EKG numbers demonstrate that licensed sportsbooks continue to capture the majority of NFL wagering activity. The report places the 2026 projections alongside historical handle data to illustrate steady expansion in the regulated sector even as new contract-based products enter the landscape.

State regulatory filings referenced in the analysis show NFL handle forming a substantial portion of annual totals for operators in major markets. The 8 percent growth rate cited by EKG applies specifically to the NFL segment and does not extend to other sports or year-round casino offerings. Analysts compiling the figures examined licensing data, tax reports, and operator disclosures to arrive at the aggregate estimates.

Regional and Seasonal Factors in the Projections

Projections for October 2026 place peak NFL handle during the regular season weeks when multiple games occur simultaneously across Thursday, Sunday, and Monday slots. EKG analysts factored in expanded mobile access in additional states along with continued growth in existing markets when calculating the $31.7 billion total. The report separates NFL-specific volume from other sports to isolate the league's contribution to overall handle.

Those reviewing the data observe that prediction market platforms captured a smaller but measurable share through contracts settled on final scores and related outcomes. The $8.4 billion figure represents activity on platforms that have obtained regulatory approval in certain jurisdictions. EKG's methodology combines public filings with operator surveys to produce the split percentages.

Implications for Licensed Operators

Operators licensed in multiple states receive the bulk of the projected NFL handle according to the 79 percent allocation. The 8 percent year-over-year increase suggests continued volume growth even as operators adjust promotional structures and risk management tools. The analysis does not forecast changes in hold percentages or average bet sizes but focuses strictly on total handle amounts.

Regulatory bodies in states with established sports wagering programs receive tax revenue tied directly to the sportsbook handle figures. The EKG report supplies a reference point for those monitoring how prediction market contracts interact with traditional offerings over the coming seasons. Figures remain subject to revision as new state approvals and platform launches occur.

Conclusion

The EKG projections supply a quantified view of NFL wagering volumes expected in 2026 under current regulatory conditions. The $31.7 billion sportsbook total and $8.4 billion prediction market total establish the 79-to-21 division while the 8 percent growth rate indicates ongoing expansion in the licensed channel. 2026 NFL wagering projections (sportsbooks vs. prediction markets) remain available for further review by those examining market share trends.