The 2024 NFL season marked a significant milestone as games aired on Netflix for the first time. This move represents an expansion in the streaming landscape for the league, and it is set to continue with a doubleheader on Christmas Day in 2025. Discussions about the potential for more NFL games on this platform indicate that Netflix is keen to solidify its role in the sports broadcasting arena.

In a recent conversation that gained attention, CNBC's Alex Sherman revealed insights from Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, who expressed interest in airing additional games. Sarandos noted discussions he had with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, hinting at the possibility of expanding the schedule. Sherman quoted Sarandos: “We just need to figure out a way to eventize these games.” This suggests that Netflix aims to create special atmospheres around the games to enhance viewer engagement. There are even speculations about a package of 15 games potentially being offered, allowing Netflix to present them as event broadcasts.

The Christmas Day games in 2024 were designed to feel like high-profile events. An example of this was the matchup between Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs against the Pittsburgh Steelers, two prominent teams within the American Football Conference (AFC). Additionally, the Baltimore Ravens' win over the Houston Texans featured a halftime performance by Beyoncé, adding further spectacle to the occasion. According to a Netflix press release, these two games achieved the distinction of being the most streamed NFL games in U.S. history. The upcoming Christmas doubleheader for this year will feature the Dallas Cowboys facing off against the Washington Commanders at 1 p.m. ET, followed by the Detroit Lions taking on the Minnesota Vikings at 4:30 p.m. ET. The outcomes of these games may have significant implications for the standings in the NFC East and NFC North divisions, with the Cowboys being the only team in that group which did not reach the playoffs last season. Notably, the Cowboys, often referred to as America's Team, are expected to attract a substantial viewership, even amid the fluctuating performances of star players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens. As the NFL continues expanding its streaming partnerships—with Thursday Night Football streaming on Prime Video and playoff games available on Peacock—the growing presence of the league on platforms like Netflix seems increasingly likely.