Netflix has been making big changes lately, moving towards a more traditional TV model. Just a few years ago, it would have been surprising to see the streaming service include ads or broadcast live sports.
Now, Netflix has announced a new 3-year deal with the NFL to stream their popular Christmas games. This is a major move, as the NFL has a huge audience in the US. This deal is part of Netflix’s broader push into sports, which already includes agreements with WWE for Monday Night Raw and exclusive rights to the Mike Tyson and Logan Paul fight.
Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, explained, “Last year, we decided to take a big bet on live – tapping into massive fandoms across comedy, reality TV, sports, and more. There are no live annual events, sports or otherwise, that compare with the audiences NFL football attracts. We’re so excited that the NFL’s Christmas Day games will be only on Netflix.”
The two Christmas Day games are set to feature the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans. While the matchups for 2025 and 2026 haven’t been announced yet, Netflix will stream at least one game each Christmas Day for the next three years.
However, Netflix won’t have exclusive rights to these games. Local TV networks will still broadcast them in their respective regions. If you’re outside those areas, you can watch the games on Netflix or on NFL Plus (mobile devices only).
This year has been big for Netflix’s sports announcements. With deals in place for wrestling, boxing, and football, it wouldn’t be surprising if baseball or basketball deals are next. It’s likely already in the works.
