The NFL is exploring potential partnerships with non-traditional media companies for the broadcast rights to live games, as indicated by NFL Media Chief Hans Schroeder in a recent interview with CNBC Sport. Speaking from Radio Row ahead of Super Bowl LX in San Francisco, Schroeder revealed that the league aims to engage with various media entities to consider new broadcasting models that could benefit its fans and teams.
Schroeder emphasized the league’s openness to discussions with a range of interested parties. He cited a recent deal where the NFL sold the rights to a Week 1 game to YouTube for approximately $100 million, hinting that similar arrangements with digital platforms may occur in the future. The rise of streaming services has positioned them as viable contenders to traditional broadcast television, which has been the NFL’s primary distribution method due to its extensive reach.
The NFL’s current media partnerships with Disney, Paramount Global, NBCUniversal, and Amazon are expected to be revisited later this year, four years before the existing contracts allow for opt-out discussions. Schroeder noted that the NFL is prepared for these dialogues, emphasizing the demand for broadcasting options in today’s shifting media landscape.
Additionally, the NFL plans to increase the number of international games to nine next season, aiming to possibly include these new packages in negotiations with prospective media partners.
Why this story matters:
- The NFL’s exploration of digital partnerships reflects changing media consumption habits.
Key takeaway:
- Live game rights may increasingly shift from traditional broadcasts to streaming platforms.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Traditional broadcasters argue that digital platforms may lack the infrastructure for comprehensive game coverage.
