For years, the NFL’s Sunday Ticket package has been a staple for football fans wanting access to out-of-market games. However, in 2024, the entire package is under threat due to an ongoing antitrust lawsuit that could change how NFL games are broadcast and accessed by fans. This lawsuit could reshape the way football fans across the U.S. watch their favorite teams and lead to lower, more flexible pricing options.

What Is the NFL Sunday Ticket Antitrust Lawsuit?

The NFL Sunday Ticket is currently at the center of a $6 billion class-action lawsuit. The claim alleges that the NFL and the Sunday Ticket provider have formed an illegal monopoly by forcing customers to pay for the full package of out-of-market games rather than offering more flexible, team-specific options. This means that fans who only want to watch their favorite team are required to pay for access to every team’s games—a costly endeavor that many argue is anti-consumer.

Recently, a federal judge ruled against the NFL's attempt to dismiss the lawsuit, and the case is set to go to trial in June 2024. If the NFL loses, it could fundamentally change how content is distributed, allowing for cheaper and more targeted offerings to fans. You could soon have the option to pay only for the games that matter to you!

How Could This Change Affect You?

If the court sides against the NFL, the biggest change would be the introduction of team-specific streaming packages. Imagine being able to pay a fraction of the cost just to follow the Green Bay Packers or New England Patriots instead of being forced to purchase access to all teams. This could also increase competition among streaming platforms, as more services may get the rights to offer these new, flexible packages.

Furthermore, more affordable and flexible plans could lower the cost of watching the NFL overall. Fans who are frustrated with current pricing might see significant relief, with the potential for team-specific or regional bundles available on multiple streaming platforms, including streaming services like Hulu and Disney+.

What Games Are at Risk?

If you’re a subscriber to the NFL Sunday Ticket, this lawsuit means potential changes to how you watch key out-of-market games. Historically, Sunday Ticket has been the go-to solution for fans wanting to catch games not shown on local networks. However, should the lawsuit succeed, fans may need to look for new streaming options or packages to ensure they can still watch their favorite teams. Major games like Sunday Night Football and Thanksgiving Day games could soon be available on new platforms or as a part of targeted offerings.

To prepare, ensure that you have access to reliable internet. Explore the best internet providers that can support uninterrupted streaming, especially during major games and events.

How Consumers Can Stay Ahead

To make sure you’re not left scrambling to watch your favorite team, here are some tips for staying ahead:

• Follow the Latest Developments: Keep up with news about the ongoing court case. Being aware of when a decision is likely to be made can help you plan accordingly and adjust your streaming services if needed.


• Consider Multiple Streaming Services: With potential changes in where games are offered, having access to more than one streaming service could prove advantageous. Platforms like YouTube TV, Hulu, or ESPN+ may end up with exclusive streaming rights to specific games or teams.


• Check Your Internet Speed: Streaming live sports requires a fast, stable connection. Make sure your current internet plan is optimized for streaming. Check out our guide on optimizing your internet speed for streaming to ensure you’re ready for the upcoming changes.


• Explore Alternative Packages: Depending on the court's ruling, new team-specific or game-specific streaming packages could become available. These packages could save you money and provide more personalized viewing experiences.

The Future of NFL Broadcasting

This lawsuit isn’t just about Sunday Ticket—it’s about the future of how NFL content is distributed and consumed. If the plaintiffs win, it could set a precedent for greater consumer choice not just in football, but in sports broadcasting as a whole. New players may enter the market, offering competitive pricing, and allowing fans greater access to their favorite teams and games.

For example, if services like Apple TV+ or Amazon Prime Video get in on the action, it could mean even more options for consumers to pick and choose which teams they want to follow, potentially driving prices down. Stay updated by reading Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities in the Telecom Sector to learn more about the latest industry trends.