US opens antitrust investigation into NFL’s broadcasting practices

The US Department of Justice has launched an antitrust investigation into the National Football League over concerns it may be engaging in practices that limit competition and harm consumers, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The probe comes amid growing criticism from regulators, lawmakers, and broadcasters over the rising difficulty and cost of accessing live sports, as more games shift from traditional free-to-air television to paid streaming platforms. The full scope of the investigation has not yet been disclosed.

In response, the NFL said that over 87% of its games are still available on free broadcast television, with all matches aired in the local markets of participating teams.

The move follows a broader regulatory push. In February, the Federal Communications Commission began reviewing the migration of live sports to subscription-based services, raising concerns about declining access for viewers. Broadcasters have also warned that major tech companies acquiring sports rights could undermine local television networks.

According to the FCC, NFL games were spread across 10 different platforms last year, potentially costing fans more than $1,500 to watch a full season.

Separately, US Senator Mike Lee has called for a review of the league’s long-standing antitrust exemptions, which date back to a 1961 law allowing sports leagues to collectively sell media rights.