The NFL continues to dominate American television, securing a commanding presence in the broadcasting landscape despite a slight dip in viewership in 2024. While the league saw a 2.2% decrease in audience,it still held a significant majority of the top 100 broadcasts in the US,claiming 70 spots compared to 93 the previous year.[[1]
This year, the average NFL viewership across networks reached 17.5 million, a slight decrease from the 17.9 million viewers in 2023. However, the league’s media footprint expanded considerably thanks to the growing influence of streaming platforms like Amazon and Netflix. Notably, these figures exclude viewership data from Peacock, ESPN+, and international matches aired on NFL Network.[[3]
the rise of streaming has considerably impacted how fans consume NFL content. customary television networks are witnessing a surge in viewers opting for digital platforms to access football broadcasts. This trend is exemplified by Amazon’s “thursday Night Football,” which experienced an 11% increase in viewership, averaging 13.2 million viewers. Including their Black Friday game, the average viewership climbed to 13%. [[2]
Netflix, the pioneer of streaming services, made its debut in live sports broadcasting over the Christmas holiday, attracting over 24 million viewers for its coverage of the Kansas City Chiefs-Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens-Houston Texans games. This move underscores the growing appetite for live sports content on streaming platforms.
While ESPN, owned by Disney, maintained a strong performance with an average of 15 million viewers for its 22 NFL games, marking its second-best season in 24 years, it did experience a 14% decline compared to the previous year’s 17.4 million viewers. This suggests that the shift towards streaming platforms is impacting traditional broadcasters, even those with established audiences.
The Gridiron Goes Digital: A Conversation with Former NFL running back, Marcus Jones
Welcome back, sports fans! Today, we’re diving into the ever-evolving world of football broadcasting with a special guest—former NFL running back and Super Bowl Champion, Marcus Jones. Marcus, thanks for joining us!
marcus: Anytime! Always happy to talk football.
LetS get right into it. The NFL saw a slight decrease in viewership this year, but still dominates television ratings. How do you explain this continued success despite the rise of streaming platforms?
marcus: I think it boils down to two things: the quality of the product and the NFL’s willingness to adapt. Even with streaming on the rise, Sunday afternoons are still sacred for football fans. The NFL delivers thrilling games week after week, and people tune in for that. As for adaptation, they’re smart. Look at Amazon’s Thursday Night Football.Bringing those games to a streaming audience is genius.
Speaking of streaming,Amazon Prime saw an impressive 11% increase in viewership for Thursday Night Football. Do you think this is a sign of a larger shift in how fans consume NFL content?
Marcus: Absolutely. We’re in a new era of media consumption. People want options; they want convenience. Streaming platforms offer that. And let’s be honest, younger generations are more agreeable with streaming than customary television.
It’s interesting you mentioned younger generations. Netflix dipped its toe into live sports broadcasting with those Christmas games. More than 24 million viewers tuned in.What are your thoughts on netflix entering this arena?
Marcus: That was huge! It shows the immense power of streaming and its growing appeal for live events. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Netflix make a bigger play in sports broadcasting in the future.
Now, ESPN remains a powerhouse in NFL broadcasting, but experienced a 14% dip in viewership this season. do you see them struggling to keep up with the streaming giants?
Marcus: ESPN definitely faces a challenge. They’ve built a legacy on tradition, but they need to find ways to engage a new generation of viewers. I think we’ll see them double down on their digital presence and explore more innovative ways to deliver content.
it truly seems the NFL is in good hands when it comes to adapting to the changing media landscape. What’s your prediction for the future of NFL viewership?
Marcus: I think the NFL will continue to thrive. They’ll continue to deliver grate games and find ways to reach fans wherever they are. We’ll see a mix of traditional broadcast and streaming options, but the love for the game will always be there.
Thank you for your insights, Marcus! This has been an enlightening discussion on the future of NFL broadcasting. What are your thoughts on this evolving landscape? Share your opinions in the comments below!
