Netflix Expands NFL Footprint with Live Thanksgiving Eve Broadcast
Netflix is making a decisive move into the live sports arena, significantly expanding its partnership with the NFL. During its 2026 Upfronts, the streaming giant announced a major addition to its programming slate: a live broadcast of a Thanksgiving Eve game. This move signals Netflix’s growing ambition to capture the massive audience that tunes in for major seasonal sporting events.
According to a Netflix release, the matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Rams on November 25 will be the NFL’s first-ever game played on the day before Thanksgiving. This scheduling marks a significant shift in how the league utilizes holiday windows to engage fans.
A Comprehensive Slate of NFL Action
The Thanksgiving Eve game is just one component of a broader NFL strategy on the platform. Netflix will host a total of five NFL games throughout the upcoming season, providing a mix of international excitement and holiday tradition.
From Australia to the Holidays
The streamer’s NFL schedule includes a variety of high-profile windows designed to reach fans globally and during peak viewing periods:
- September 10: The NFL’s first-ever regular season showdown in Australia, featuring the Los Angeles Rams against the San Francisco 49ers.
- November 25: The historic Thanksgiving Eve game between the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Rams.
- Christmas Day: Two live games, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET and 4:30 p.m. ET.
- January 9: A Week 18 matchup at 1 p.m. ET, occurring as the regular season concludes and the playoff field is finalized.
NFL Honors and Global Availability
Beyond the regular season games, Netflix is set to become a destination for league milestones. Fans will be able to watch the NFL Honors awards presentation on the platform during Super Bowl week. This annual event is a cornerstone of the football calendar, where the league’s MVP is announced and Hall of Fame selectees are revealed.
Netflix’s NFL coverage is designed for a massive scale, with availability spanning more than 200 countries. While the primary viewing experience is via the streaming service, Netflix noted that some content will also air on local, over-the-air broadcast television within the respective team markets.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Scheduling: Netflix will stream the first-ever NFL game held on Thanksgiving Eve (Packers vs. Rams) on November 25.
- Diverse Schedule: The platform will host five NFL games, including an international matchup in Australia and two games on Christmas Day.
- Award Coverage: The NFL Honors presentation will be available to subscribers during Super Bowl week.
- Global Reach: NFL content on Netflix will be accessible in over 200 countries.
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