Netflix Secures Exclusive Rights to Stream NFL’s Christmas Day Games, Changing Sports Media Landscape

Miami, FL – Netflix has secured a groundbreaking deal to stream live NFL games starting this season. The streaming giant will exclusively broadcast the NFL’s two new Christmas Day games, a move that reshapes the sports media landscape by granting Netflix access to the largest live sports rights in the U.S.

In an unprecedented agreement, Netflix will also stream NFL games in 2025 and 2026, guaranteeing “at least one game” for each year. The three-year deal marks a significant milestone for the NFL and Netflix, affirming their commitment to providing high-quality entertainment to fans worldwide.

Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the unparalleled appeal of NFL football among diverse audiences. The partnership aligns with Netflix’s strategic focus on capturing the excitement and passion of live events, reinforcing the platform’s position as a premier destination for entertainment.

NFL’s Executive VP of Media Distribution, Hans Schroeder, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the historic nature of the partnership as the first professional sports league to join forces with Netflix for live game broadcasts. The NFL’s Christmas Day games have become a cherished tradition, and collaborating with Netflix on this global stage signifies a pivotal moment in expanding the event’s reach and engagement.

While Netflix has primarily focused on sports docuseries and one-off sporting events in the past, the groundbreaking deal with the NFL marks a significant shift in the streaming service’s sports content strategy. The partnership underscores Netflix’s commitment to delivering diverse and engaging programming that resonates with a broad audience.

Commenting on the company’s approach to sports programming, Netflix’s co-CEO, Ted Sarandos, emphasized a focus on profitable growth while leveraging opportunities to enhance engagement, revenue, and overall profitability. The strategic alignment with the NFL reflects Netflix’s dedication to curating high-quality entertainment content that captivates audiences worldwide.

The NFL’s collaboration with Netflix is indicative of the league’s broader strategy to expand its reach and accessibility across various platforms. By embracing partnerships with leading streaming services like Netflix, the NFL aims to engage fans on a global scale while maintaining a strong presence on traditional and digital platforms.

As the largest global subscription streaming service, Netflix’s partnership with the NFL is a significant achievement for both parties, paving the way for innovative collaborations and groundbreaking content offerings. The exclusive broadcast of NFL games on Netflix underscores the evolving landscape of sports media and highlights the potential for future partnerships and engagement opportunities.