Roger Goodell Testifies on ‘Sunday Ticket’ in Antitrust Lawsuit, Emphasizes Premium Product Status

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell testified in federal court regarding the league’s “Sunday Ticket” package, emphasizing its status as a premium product and defending the NFL’s broadcast model. Goodell, serving as a witness for the NFL, addressed the lawsuit brought by subscribers alleging antitrust violations in the pricing and distribution of the out-of-market game package.

Goodell underscored that “Sunday Ticket” is marketed as a premium offering, noting both its higher cost and the quality of its content. He acknowledged that while some fans may find it expensive, the league believes in the value it offers. This stance is pivotal as the lawsuit covers millions of subscribers and businesses over an eleven-year period.

The core of the legal dispute revolves around whether the NFL’s broadcasting practices violated antitrust laws by restricting competition and inflating prices. The league contends that its broadcasting rights fall within its legal exemptions, permitting it to control the distribution of games to maintain quality and revenue.

The trial has also highlighted concerns from networks like Fox and CBS regarding the impact of a more widely available “Sunday Ticket” on local game ratings. Former CBS Sports chairman Sean McManus’s memo expressed reservations about broader distribution potentially diluting the premium value traditionally associated with the package.

Goodell further explained the NFL’s decision to partner with DirecTV for “Sunday Ticket” from 1994 to 2022, citing the satellite provider’s national reach as a crucial factor. He noted dissatisfaction with the partnership in later years under AT&T’s ownership, citing declines in marketing and innovation.

Regarding the future of “Sunday Ticket,” Goodell mentioned the NFL’s move to stream the package exclusively through Google’s YouTube TV starting in 2023. He defended the league’s overall broadcast strategy, emphasizing the importance of free television in maximizing viewership and fan engagement.

Goodell’s testimony outlined the NFL’s rationale behind its broadcasting decisions and its defense against antitrust allegations. The trial continues to examine the complexities of sports broadcasting rights and their economic implications, with additional testimony expected from industry figures like Jerry Jones and Sean McManus.