Sports podcasts have become a big part of how fans enjoy sports in 2025. Whether you like football, basketball, soccer, or just great stories about athletes and games, there’s something out there for you. In this article, we’ll walk you through the top 10 sports podcasts of 2025, based on their popularity, reviews, and how much listeners are enjoying them right now.
We’ve made the list simple to understand, but also full of details. This way, whether you’re new to podcasts or a long-time listener, you’ll find something exciting to explore.
Why Sports Podcasts Are So Popular in 2025
Sports podcasts are more than just game scores and news. They’re about:
- Fun conversations with athletes and experts
- Behind-the-scenes stories you don’t hear on TV
- Opinions and hot takes that get people talking
- Humor and entertainment mixed with real analysis
Thanks to platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, it’s now easier than ever to find a great sports podcast that fits your interests.
Top 10 Sports Podcasts of 2025
These podcasts were chosen based on recent rankings, reviews, and listener feedback as of July 2025.
The Bill Simmons Podcast
Host: Bill Simmons
Why It’s Great: Bill Simmons talks about everything from basketball and football to movies and pop culture. He often invites famous guests, including players, coaches, and celebrities. If you want smart opinions with a fun twist, this is the place to go.
🔹 Ranked highly across multiple lists
🔹 Included in Time Magazine’s 100 Best Podcasts of All Time
🔹 Perfect for NBA and NFL fans who love big-picture discussions
Pardon My Take
Hosts: Big Cat & PFT Commenter (Eric Sollenberger)
Why It’s Great: This show is funny, loud, and always entertaining. It covers the biggest sports stories but doesn’t take itself too seriously. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll probably become a fan.
🔹 Ranked #1 by FeedSpot
🔹 Popular on Spotify and social media
🔹 Great for fans who enjoy jokes with their sports news
New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce
Hosts: NFL brothers Jason and Travis Kelce
Why It’s Great: Ever wondered what NFL players talk about off the field? This show gives you exactly that. The Kelce brothers talk football, life, and share personal stories that fans love.
🔹 Included in Time Magazine’s list
🔹 Recently gained huge popularity after Super Bowl buzz
🔹 Perfect for NFL fans and anyone who enjoys real-life sports stories
30 for 30 Podcasts
Creator: ESPN
Why It’s Great: This podcast brings powerful, emotional stories from sports history. Think of it like a documentary, but in podcast form. It covers events and people you may have never heard of — but should.
🔹 Known for great storytelling and production
🔹 Critically acclaimed and award-winning
🔹 Perfect for fans of deep dives and powerful stories
Men In Blazers
Hosts: Roger Bennett & Michael Davies
Why It’s Great: If you’re a soccer fan, especially of the English Premier League, this show is for you. It’s clever, passionate, and full of British-style humor. These guys truly love the game.
🔹 Long-time favorite for soccer lovers
🔹 Featured in Time Magazine’s list
🔹 Great for international sports fans
The Ryen Russillo Podcast
Host: Ryen Russillo
Why It’s Great: Ryen gives sharp analysis on football and basketball, plus he often has thoughtful guests. His tone is relaxed, but his sports knowledge runs deep.
🔹 Ranked on both FeedSpot and OLBG
🔹 Good balance of fun and facts
🔹 Best for people who like smart takes with little drama
The Pat McAfee Show
Host: Pat McAfee (former NFL punter)
Why It’s Great: Pat McAfee brings wild energy, fun interviews, and big personalities. This is one of the most high-energy sports podcasts out there. Great for people who don’t want the typical boring sports talk.
🔹 Ranked highly by Podpage and OLBG
🔹 Popular on YouTube as well
🔹 Great for football fans and casual listeners
ESPN Daily
Host: Pablo Torre
Why It’s Great: This podcast brings you one big sports story each day. Whether it’s about the NBA, MLB, NFL, or Olympic sports, it helps you understand what’s happening and why it matters.
🔹 Short and informative (15–20 minutes)
🔹 Ranked by FeedSpot and Podpage
🔹 Great for busy sports fans who want daily updates
The Lowe Post
Host: Zach Lowe
Why It’s Great: If you love the NBA, Zach Lowe is a must-listen. He talks strategy, matchups, and has some of the smartest basketball conversations out there.
🔹 Featured on Podpage and OLBG
🔹 Known for deep basketball analysis
🔹 Ideal for serious NBA fans
All the Smoke
Hosts: Matt Barnes & Stephen Jackson
Why It’s Great: This is a behind-the-scenes look at basketball and athlete life. Hosted by two former NBA players, it’s honest, raw, and filled with great interviews.
🔹 Ranked in the Podpage top 10
🔹 Strong fanbase and viral interviews
🔹 Great for fans of real talk from real athletes
FAQs
Q: Are these podcasts free to listen to?
A: Yes! Most are available for free on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Q: Can teens listen to these?
A: Most of these are okay for teens, but some (like Pardon My Take or All the Smoke) may include adult language. Always check the episode description or content warning.
Q: Which podcast is best for soccer fans?
A: Men In Blazers is the top pick for soccer, especially the English Premier League.
Q: What’s the best daily podcast?
A: ESPN Daily offers quick, quality sports news each morning.
Q: I don’t follow sports closely — which one should I start with?
A: Try 30 for 30 Podcasts or New Heights. They’re fun, easy to follow, and full of great stories.