Netflix Plans Expanded NFL Streaming Beyond Christmas Doubleheader

Netflix made history by streaming NFL games for the first time during the 2024 season, showcasing two high-profile Christmas Day matchups that became the most streamed NFL games in U.S. history, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans. The streaming giant plans to continue this partnership with another Christmas Day doubleheader in 2025, including games with major playoff implications such as Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders and Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings, and is eager to expand beyond just holiday games. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos has held talks with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell about increasing the number of streamed games, but the challenge lies in "eventizing" these games to make them marquee, must-watch events rather than routine broadcasts. The NFL has embraced multiple streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Peacock, signaling a strategic shift that prioritizes broad consumer access over traditional network exclusivity. While Netflix aims to secure a larger package of games, potentially up to 15, the league shows no hesitation in exploiting various streaming partnerships despite the risk of fan frustration over multiple subscriptions. Overall, Netflix's ambition reflects the NFL's evolving media landscape, where streaming services play a growing role in delivering live sports content to diverse audiences.