What's Happening?
The NFL has reported a significant increase in viewership for its preseason games, marking a 17 percent rise from the previous year. This surge has resulted in the highest preseason ratings since 2018, with an average of 2.2 million viewers per game across major networks including NFL Network, ESPN, CBS, NBC, and FOX. NFL Network, which broadcasted most of the live games, achieved its highest-ever preseason viewership, averaging 1.8 million viewers, a 26 percent increase from last year. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Los Angeles Chargers and Detroit Lions, was particularly successful, drawing 6.9 million viewers, a 40 percent increase from the previous year’s game.
Why It's Important?
The rise in preseason viewership is a positive indicator for the NFL, especially following last season's decline in regular-season ratings. The increase suggests renewed interest in the league, potentially leading to higher engagement and revenue during the upcoming regular season. This trend could benefit broadcasters and advertisers, who rely on high viewership numbers for profitability. The NFL's ability to attract more viewers may also influence future negotiations for broadcasting rights and sponsorship deals, impacting the league's financial landscape.
What's Next?
The NFL regular season is set to begin on September 4, with the Dallas Cowboys facing the Philadelphia Eagles. The preseason's strong viewership numbers may translate into increased anticipation and higher ratings for the regular season. Stakeholders, including broadcasters and advertisers, will be closely monitoring the regular season's performance to assess the sustainability of this viewership trend. The league may also explore strategies to maintain and further boost audience engagement throughout the season.
