Netflix Eyes More NFL Games

Netflix is looking into the possibility of offering more NFL games, shifting from its current two-game packages to potentially adding four-game bundles. This move seems aimed at enhancing its offerings in sports content.

Among the games Netflix is interested in are those on Thanksgiving Eve, as well as various international matchups. It appears that streaming platforms are eager to diversify their sports and live event selections to keep subscribers engaged, according to reports.

This season marks the conclusion of Netflix’s three-year agreement with the NFL to broadcast Christmas Day games. As the league renegotiates its media rights deals, there’s talk of creating smaller game packages—consisting of four to five games—that could be accessible to platforms like Netflix.

Interestingly, the NFL is regaining the rights to four games as part of its arrangement to sell the NFL Network to ESPN. Additionally, the league’s first independently sold international game of the season will soon be offered through a media broadcast partner.

Flexibility appears to be a key approach for the NFL moving forward, with the potential to distribute five games across various platforms. Companies like YouTube and Amazon have already shown interest in picking up more NFL games.

In the realm of live sports, Netflix has also embraced other options, including boxing, WWE, and MLB. Just last week, the platform aired its inaugural MLB game as part of a $50 million annual deal encompassing events like the Home Run Derby and the Field of Dreams games.

However, the reception of Netflix’s baseball debut was not entirely positive. Fans voiced concerns about the pregame show’s vibe, which felt more like an infomercial, and the broadcast’s scoring display during the Yankees’ dominating win over the Giants.