By Michael Specter
Record-Breaking Viewership on Christmas Day
Netflix has set a new streaming record, attracting nearly 65 million viewers in the United States for two NFL games on December 25, 2024. These games marked the beginning of a three-year exclusive broadcasting deal between Netflix and the NFL, showcasing Christmas Day matchups on the streaming platform.
High Viewer EngagXement for Ravens vs. Texans
The Baltimore Ravens’ victory over the Houston Texans was the most-watched game, with an average of 24.3 million viewers. The game reached its peak viewership during a 13-minute halftime performance by Beyoncé, which attracted over 27 million people to Netflix for the star-studded show.
Chiefs vs. Steelers Game Draws Millions
In the other Christmas Day matchup, the Kansas City Chiefs, reigning Super Bowl champions, defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers, drawing an average of 24.1 million viewers. The game became one of the most-watched sports events on Netflix, marking a significant achievement for the streaming service.
Exclusive NFL Deal with Netflix
As part of a three-year agreement with the NFL, Netflix is reportedly paying around $75 million per game for the streaming rights. This deal, valued at $150 million for this year alone, allows Netflix to air exclusive NFL games on Christmas, further solidifying its position in the sports streaming market.
Netflix’s Most Popular Live Titles
The two NFL games became the second and third-most popular live titles in Netflix history, just behind the November 14 fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. That boxing match averaged 60 million viewers globally, with 38 million of those streams coming from the United States.
What’s Next for Netflix and NFL Fans
Looking ahead to Christmas 2025, Netflix will air at least two NFL games, but with Christmas falling on a Thursday, there could be as many as three games: two afternoon games and one in prime time. The NFL has traditionally featured three games on Thanksgiving Day since 2006, and now Christmas Day will be another focal point for their expanding partnership with Netflix.
NBA Sets Record on Christmas Day
In addition to Netflix’s success, the NBA also enjoyed a record-breaking Christmas, with its five-game slate averaging 5.25 million viewers per game across ABC, ESPN, and other platforms. This marked the NBA’s most-watched Christmas Day in five years.
