You can't watch the NFL on CBS' new streaming service

On Thursday, CBS announced a subscription-based live and on-demand streaming video service called CBS All Access that will feature much of the network's programming that is already available for free via broadcast. However, there's one notable exception for sports fans: NFL games will not be part of that package.

CBS broadcasts NFL games on Sunday afternoon and Thursday nights. However, it does not own the streaming rights to those games, which prevents the network from including them in their online subscription service.

There is some hope that NFL games will be available through the service in the future. CBS officials are "in discussions" with the NFL over streaming its content, according to Emily Steel of the New York Times.

CBS is charging $5.99/month for the service, which will be in 14 markets across the United States with more affiliates coming. For now, the markets not covered by the initial launch will have access to episodes of hit shows such as NCIS and Big Bang Theory, along with classics including Cheers and Star Trek.

In this deal, CBS plans to carry other live sporting events. Currently, college football games, including SEC games, are available online from CBS.

The NFL is available currently online, but only through limited channels. Monday Night Football can be seen on WatchESPN through gaming systems and desktops; it requires a cable subscription to access. Sunday Night Football can be seen on NBCSports.com. The Thursday-night package is available online but only through alternate views via NFL.com. Games shown on FOX are viewable through FOX Sports Go, but only with a cable subscription.

Perhaps the best way to watch the NFL online is through Sunday Ticket MAX, a package purchased through DirecTV. However, the package is expensive (upwards of $300).