DOJ Probes NFL's TV Broadcast Rights Deals

Investigation could impact how fans watch and pay for NFL games

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:40pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a sleek, modern TV remote control made of polished metal and glass, floating on a clean, monochromatic grey background, conceptually representing the shifting dynamics of how NFL games are distributed and consumed.As the NFL's broadcast rights come under federal scrutiny, the changing landscape of how fans access games is symbolized by a minimalist, premium TV remote.Phoenix Today

The Department of Justice has opened an investigation into the NFL's media distribution model, examining whether the league's lucrative broadcast rights deals are harming consumers. The probe comes as the NFL prepares to renegotiate billions in new TV contracts, with concerns growing over the league putting more games on subscription streaming services.

Why it matters

The investigation could lead to changes in how the NFL sells its broadcast rights, potentially impacting the cost and accessibility of games for fans. The NFL currently has a limited antitrust exemption that allows it to negotiate media deals collectively, but the DOJ probe could threaten that exemption.

The details

The DOJ investigation was reportedly spurred by concerns from Fox Corporation, which currently pays over $2 billion for its NFL Sunday afternoon package. The league plans to exercise an opt-out clause in its current deals after the 2029 season, likely seeking higher fees from media partners. This has led to fears the NFL could move more games to subscription streaming services, increasing costs for viewers.

  • The DOJ opened the probe in early 2026.
  • The NFL's current media rights deals run through 2033, with ESPN's deal going through 2034.
  • The league plans to exercise an opt-out clause in its current deals after the 2029 season.

The players

Department of Justice

The federal government agency that has opened an investigation into the NFL's media distribution model.

Fox Corporation

The media company that owns the Fox Sports network, which currently pays over $2 billion for its NFL Sunday afternoon package.

Lachlan Murdoch

The CEO of Fox Corporation, who has said the company would consider "rebalancing" its portfolio if NFL rights costs increase.

Ted Ullyot

The NFL's general counsel, who provided an update on the DOJ investigation during league meetings.

Roger Goodell

The NFL Commissioner, who the league says has a "fan and broadcaster-friendly" media distribution model.

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What they’re saying

“We're seeing the same story over and over again: billionaires in boardrooms making decisions to maximize their profits without thinking for a second about the fans. The Sports Broadcasting Act may have made sense in the '60s, but what we're essentially seeing play out here is a classic case of a monopolized industry using their power and control to take advantage of the American people.”

— Patrick Ryan, U.S. Congressman

“The NFL's media distribution model is the most fan and broadcaster-friendly in the entire sports and entertainment industry.”

— NFL

What’s next

The DOJ investigation is ongoing, and the outcome could impact how the NFL negotiates its next round of media rights deals. Congress also has the power to repeal the league's limited antitrust exemption, which could fundamentally change how the NFL distributes its games.

The takeaway

The DOJ probe highlights the growing tensions between the NFL's desire to maximize its media rights revenue and concerns from lawmakers, networks, and fans about the rising costs and accessibility of watching professional football. The investigation could lead to significant changes in how the league sells its broadcast rights in the years ahead.