Will NFL Thanksgiving Games Remain on Broadcast TV?
The NFL’s Thanksgiving games have become a focal point in discussions about broadcast television and streaming services. Following a successful season, the league is considering negotiating its media rights deals, which currently extend through 2033. Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner, hinted at the possibility of renegotiations as early as next year during an interview with CNBC.
Record-Setting Viewership for Thanksgiving Games
This year’s Thanksgiving games saw impressive ratings that surpassed previous records. The games included:
- Packers vs. Lions: 47.7 million viewers on Fox
- Chiefs vs. Cowboys: 57.2 million viewers on CBS
- Bengals vs. Ravens: 28.4 million viewers on NBC
These viewership numbers highlight the games’ popularity, suggesting the NFL may pursue streaming bids for future broadcasts.
The Streaming Landscape
With streaming giants like Netflix eyeing sports broadcasting, the NFL may face pressure to shift Thanksgiving games to these platforms. Netflix has expressed interest in significant sports events and currently holds rights to certain NFL games, indicating a strong financial backing.
All the major broadcasters, such as CBS, Fox, and NBC, are at risk of losing valuable programming. The NFL has already moved several key games to streaming services, including playoff matches and Thursday night games. Goodell has even suggested the possibility of adding a second Black Friday game to the schedule.
The Financial Aspect of NFL Broadcasts
The primary motivation for these potential changes revolves around revenue. The NFL’s focus is clear: maximizing profits. With streaming services willing to pay substantial sums, the league is unlikely to prioritize traditional broadcasters if it means sacrificing revenue.
As negotiations approach, fans and networks alike will watch closely to see if Thanksgiving games will remain on broadcast television or transition to streaming platforms. The landscape of NFL broadcasting is evolving, and major changes could be on the horizon.
