NFL teams might be able to sell preseason games, original shows to streamers if owners approve new proposal

Watching NFL preseason games may get a bit more complicated in 2026. The league is reportedly considering allowing teams to sell preseason games and original shows to streaming platforms as part of a new proposal that will be put up for vote at the annual league meeting, according to Sports Business Journal.

The proposal, if accepted, would allow teams to sell games outside their normal television market. There are a few details regarding the proposal that still need to be sorted out, but those will likely be discussed at the league meeting, which begins Sunday and runs through Wednesday, per SBJ.

Separately, these proposed rules also would allow teams to, in essence, buy the right from the NFL to distribute their preseason games beyond their home markets, sources said. Details, including how the fees would be determined, may be more forthcoming after an ownership vote. Sources also said they’ll be eager to hear more details on the new right to sell nongame productions, like coaches’ shows, to streamers, and whether the specific rules undermine the potential value.

If the proposal is approved, it would — presumably — allow a team to air a specific preseason game on Netflix or Amazon Prime or any other streaming service. It’s unclear whether those streamers would have exclusive rights to those games or if they would still be shown on local networks.

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Games aren’t the only broadcast production that could be sold to streamers, per SBJ, which mentioned “coaches’ shows” as a possible item that could make its way to a streaming service.

It’s unclear whether every team would be able to benefit from the proposal, if adopted. Popular NFL teams like the Dallas Cowboys should have no trouble finding additional buyers for its content. Less popular teams — especially ones that lack star rookies — might have a harder time getting a streaming platform to pay for — and air — its first or second preseason game.

The goal of the proposal is — unsurprisingly — likely about increasing team profits. By opening up team content to streamers, some teams could make even more money selling rights to games or other shows.

Given the NFL’s popularity and profitability, a number of teams would likely be able to capitalize should the proposal be accepted at the annual league meeting.

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