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NFL responds to criticism from President Donald Trump, Department of Justice over putting games on streaming services
TL;DR
The NFL defends its streaming strategy for 2026, stating it offers the most fan-friendly model. Despite criticism from President Trump and the Department of Justice, league officials believe the current broadcast deals enhance viewer access.
Key points
- NFL defends its streaming strategy for 2026
- Games will air on ESPN, Peacock, Netflix, and Prime Video
- Hans Schroeder claims the model is fan-friendly
- Criticism came from President Trump and the Department of Justice
- 2026 NFL schedule release revealed broadcast details
Mentioned in this story
NFLDonald TrumpDepartment of Justice
PeacockNetflixPrime Video
The NFL doesnāt see an issue with how many of its games will air on different streaming services in 2026. When asked about the leagueās 2026 schedule Friday, a league executive told ESPN the NFL has āthe most fan-friendly model there is.ā
With the release of the 2026 NFL schedule Thursday, the full scope of the leagueās current broadcast deals came to light. While many NFL games can be viewed on broadcast television, games will also air on ESPN, Peacock, Netflix and Prime Video, among other services.
NFL executive vice president of media distribution Hans Schroeder said Friday thatās unlikely to change moving forward, per ESPN.
"We love our model," he said. "We think we have the most fan-friendly model there is of any sport or entertainment as far as distribution."
That comment was likely a response to increased pressure from President Donald Trump and the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding the affordability and availability of watching NFL games. Due to the leagueās partnerships with various streaming services, fans are required to purchase multiple subscriptions if they want to have access to every NFL game in 2026. Trump and other politicians have criticized the league over that decision, citing the rising costs associated with watching NFL games.
Trump spoke about the issue during an interview with The National Desk on Sunday. When asked whether the leagueās presence on multiple streaming services was a form of āprice gouging,ā Trump responded by saying, āThereās something very sad when they take football away from many, many people. Very sad.ā
When asked whether the government would step in, Trump said, āI donāt know, but I donāt like it. They are making a lot of money. They could make a little bit less. They could let the people see. You have people that live for Sunday. They canāt think about anything else. And then all of the sudden they have to pay $1,000 a game? Itās crazy. Iām not happy about it.ā
Q&A
What is the NFL's streaming strategy for 2026?
The NFL plans to air games on various streaming services, including ESPN, Peacock, Netflix, and Prime Video, alongside traditional broadcast television.
How did President Trump and the Department of Justice criticize the NFL?
They expressed concerns over the NFL's decision to put games on streaming services, suggesting it may limit access for some fans.
What did NFL executives say about their broadcasting model?
NFL executive Hans Schroeder stated that they believe their model is the most fan-friendly in sports and entertainment, and they do not anticipate changes to it.
When will the 2026 NFL schedule be released?
The full scope of the 2026 NFL schedule was released on Thursday, detailing the league's current broadcast deals.
