In recent weeks, the Justice Department has opened an investigation into whether the NFL is forcing fans to pay too much in subscription fees. Games are spread across so many different platforms and channels, many that require paid subscriptions. The investigation is “about affordability for consumers and creating an even playing field for providers,” according to a government official.
How Other Leagues Compare
If you look at other leagues, they at least try to bundle some streaming access with season tickets. The current landscape shows a much more fan-friendly approach:
- MLS: Offers free Apple TV and MLS Season Pass.
- MLB: Clubs offer MLB.TV for out-of-market games.
- NBA and WNBA: These leagues also include League Pass for season ticket holders.
The Cost of Loyalty
Meanwhile, NFL fans can spend thousands on season tickets and still have to juggle multiple subscriptions across streaming services to watch some games. Some longtime NFL season ticket holders mentioned that Sunday Ticket was included for free at some point in their tenure, but it is not included anymore. The NFL does offer a 30 percent discount on an NFL+ subscription.
The NFL released a statement defending how fans are able to watch its games amid reports of the investigation.
“With over 87% of our games on free, broadcast television, including 100% of games in the markets of the competing teams, the NFL has for decades put our fans front and center in how we distribute our content,” a league spokesperson said. “The 2025 season was our most viewed since 1989 and reflects the strength of the NFL distribution model and its wide availability to all fans.”
The Fan Consensus
The poll results from the r/seasontickets community overwhelmingly favored the idea. Over 90 percent of the community agreed that Sunday Ticket should be included, or at least offered at a discount.
As the Justice Department continues its probe, fans are left wondering if the NFL will ever return to the loyalty perks of the past.
Authored by
Andrew Vitale, Director of Revenue and Strategy. With over a decade of experience in the ticket resale market, he specializes in data-driven valuation, market trends, and premium seating. As moderator of r/seasontickets, Andrew combines analytics with real community insight to deliver practical ticket advice.
