Netflix in early stages of figuring out a broadcast partner for its holiday NFL games

Netflix is reportedly on the hunt for a broadcast production partner for the Christmas Day games it snatched up for three years starting in 2024, reports CNBC.

Netflix signs deal for Christmas games with NFL

The streamer has reportedly reached out to multiple other broadcasters, including ABC-ESPN, NBC and CBS, about possibly contracting out at least some of the production work, according to CNBC sources. 

CNBC also reports that ABC-ESPN likely won’t be able to because it has its own college football matches to produce that day. Sources noted CBS also has games on the schedule for the same week, so it’s not clear if it would be able to handle another two. Fox Sports has a similar issue.

Amazon Prime Video already has a deal with NBC to help produce its “Thursday Night Football” games that was first signed back in 2022. Amazon produces the pregame, halftime and post-game shows for “TNF” but has NBC handle key production aspects. NBC employs many of the staffers who work on the production teams as well.

Apple TV+ uses the MLB Network to produce its “Friday Night Baseball” streams.

Netflix will also need to hire commentators for its game and it’s not clear if that could be part of an overall production deal with a production partner. Many broadcasters may be hesitant to allow their own big-name talent to appear on Netflix.

Speaking of rivalries, CNBC notes that Netflix could ultimately face challenges finding a broadcast production partner. By grabbing the Christmas game rights, it’s shown its hand at possibly becoming a bidder on more NFL games down the road — and some networks may be hesitant to work with the streamer.

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There are likely a handful of other production companies or networks that might be able and willing to help out too and it appears it’s too early in the process to clearly understand what other options might be available.

Another challenge could be that the games are scheduled for Christmas Day — a date that could put a strain on staffing needs. Although many people working in TV are used to working holidays, it still could make it trickier — and even drive up the cost.