Netflix is making waves in the sports world, particularly in the realm of live NFL coverage. The streaming giant, which has already dipped its toes into significant sporting events, is now eyeing a more substantial role in broadcasting NFL games. This move comes on the heels of their recent success, including a Christmas Day matchup featuring the Kansas City Chiefs, which attracted millions of viewers.
The Chiefs, led by stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, faced off against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas Day, a game that captivated audiences and showcased Netflix’s potential in the sports broadcasting arena. Following that, they aired another exciting game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Houston Texans, further solidifying their commitment to live sports. Together, these two games averaged over 24 million viewers, a staggering number that underscores the appetite for NFL content.
But Netflix’s ambitions don’t stop there. The company has already enjoyed significant success with other live events, including the much-publicized boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, which drew an astonishing 108 million viewers globally. This kind of viewership not only demonstrates the potential for live sports on streaming platforms but also highlights Netflix’s ability to attract large audiences for major events.
In addition to boxing, Netflix has experimented with smaller events, such as Joey Chestnut’s hot dog eating contest, showcasing their willingness to diversify their offerings. With this track record, it’s clear that Netflix is not just a platform for binge-watching series; they are evolving into a serious player in live sports broadcasting.
The NFL appears to be receptive to Netflix’s interest in acquiring more game rights. The league is keen on fostering competition among broadcasters, which could lead to exciting new opportunities for fans. As the NFL continues to explore innovative ways to reach its audience, Netflix’s entry into the mix could be a game-changer.
But what does this mean for fans? The prospect of watching live NFL games on a platform like Netflix could revolutionize how we consume sports. Imagine tuning in to your favorite team’s game from the comfort of your couch, all while enjoying the seamless streaming experience that Netflix is known for. It’s an enticing thought, isn’t it?
As Netflix gears up for this expansion, they recently announced a price increase for their monthly subscriptions, with the premium plan now costing up to $24.99. However, this increase comes with a silver lining: the company has surpassed 300 million subscribers worldwide, a remarkable feat that speaks to their growing influence in the entertainment industry. They have seen a surge from 282.7 million users in October to 301.6 million globally, showcasing the effectiveness of their strategy to incorporate live events into their offerings.
The revenue generated by Netflix has also skyrocketed, reaching an impressive $10.2 billion. This financial success provides ample opportunity for investment in further NFL broadcasting rights. With such a robust subscriber base and revenue stream, Netflix is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the sports broadcasting landscape.
Meanwhile, 2025 has already marked a year of further expansion into sports for Netflix, as they have secured rights to the WWE, including both Monday Night Raw and SmackDown live broadcasts. Additionally, they have acquired the rights to the FIFA Women’s World Cup for 2027 and 2031. These moves indicate a clear strategy to diversify their sports portfolio, appealing to a wide range of sports fans.
Netflix’s approach to live sports is not about securing large regular-season sports packages; instead, they aim to deliver can’t-miss, special-event programming. In a letter to shareholders, they stated, "Although our live programming will likely be a small percentage of our total view hours and content expense, we think the eventized nature will result in outsized value to both our members and our business." This focus on unique events rather than a traditional sports package could set them apart in a crowded market.
As the NFL season progresses, fans are left wondering what the future holds for live game broadcasts on streaming platforms. Will Netflix’s foray into NFL coverage change the way we watch football? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the landscape of sports broadcasting is evolving, and Netflix is at the forefront of this transformation.
In the meantime, fans can look forward to the upcoming NFC Championship Game featuring the Washington Commanders at the Philadelphia Eagles, scheduled for Sunday, January 26, at 3 PM ET. Following that, the AFC Championship Game will see the Buffalo Bills take on the Kansas City Chiefs at 6:30 PM ET. With such thrilling matchups on the horizon, the excitement surrounding NFL games continues to build.
As Netflix continues to explore new avenues in sports broadcasting, the potential for live NFL coverage adds an exciting layer to their offerings. Fans are eager to see how this will unfold and what it means for the future of sports viewing. Will we soon be streaming our favorite teams on Netflix? The anticipation is palpable, and the possibilities are endless.
