NFL Urges Congress to Address Rise in Prediction Markets
The NFL is raising concerns regarding the surge in prediction markets, particularly during a recent congressional committee hearing. The league’s apprehension centers on sports contracts being offered in jurisdictions where traditional sports betting remains illegal.
NFL’s Concerns Over Prediction Markets
On December 12, 2025, the NFL submitted written testimony to the House Committee on Agriculture. This hearing focused on the oversight of prediction markets by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The league is primarily worried about the lack of regulation in states where legal sportsbooks do not operate.
Key Issues Raised by the NFL
- The NFL acknowledged that prediction markets operate in all 50 states.
- In contrast, legal sportsbooks are available in only 39 states and Washington, D.C.
- Concerns were voiced regarding the potential for substantial betting amounts on prediction markets, which could exceed traditional sportsbooks.
- Jeff Miller, NFL’s executive vice president, emphasized the lack of state regulatory oversight, which safeguards contest integrity.
Miller’s testimony highlighted the risks posed by unregulated betting. He noted that their absence could lead to “substantially greater risks to contest integrity,” emphasizing that state regulators monitor betting activity closely.
Prediction Market Examples and Legislative Action
Miller cited specific prediction markets that allow trades based on whether particular phrases would be mentioned during game broadcasts, such as “concussion protocol” or “roughing the passer.” He urged Congress and the CFTC to prohibit such objectionable betting to protect consumers and the integrity of sports.
Response from the Coalition for Prediction Markets
The Coalition for Prediction Markets, representing several major operators, defended the legality and regulation of prediction markets. A spokesperson stated that current CFTC regulations on abusive trading apply to these markets similarly to stock market regulations enforced by the SEC.
Reaction from Traditional Sportsbook Operators
Operators like DraftKings and FanDuel, who partner with the NFL, have announced plans to launch their prediction markets. Meanwhile, the NHL and UFC have also recently aligned with prediction market platforms. DraftKings, named the official sportsbook of ESPN, did not provide immediate commentary regarding these developments.
As the landscape of sports betting continues to evolve, the NFL and other stakeholders are pressed to address the complexities surrounding prediction markets and their implications for the industry.
