DOJ probing NFL over potential antitrust violations in TV deals, sources say
ABC News • • sports
Key Points:
- The Justice Department has launched an inquiry into whether the NFL engaged in anticompetitive practices in its TV deals, potentially causing consumers to pay excessive subscription fees.
- The investigation focuses on whether the NFL's collective licensing of broadcast rights aligns with the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961, which provides limited antitrust protections for sports leagues.
- The NFL defended its media distribution model, highlighting that over 87% of games are available on free broadcast TV and that the 2025 season was the most viewed since 1989.
- Senator Mike Lee, who has advocated for this investigation, expressed support for the probe, emphasizing concerns about games being placed behind subscription paywalls and the need to reassess the Sports Broadcasting Act in today's media environment.
- The Justice Department declined to comment on the probe, which was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.
