The future of CBS's NFL broadcast rights is currently under discussion as the network engages in negotiations with the league. This comes amid uncertainty about whether Tony Romo will continue as a commentator for CBS, which has drawn attention away from the broader question of CBS's ongoing relationship with the NFL.
Currently, CBS's contract with the NFL is set to run through 2029. However, similar to other networks like Fox, NBC, Prime Video, and YouTube, the NFL has the option to terminate these contracts four years early. CBS's situation is somewhat unique due to a recent "change in control" within its parent company, which opens the door for the NFL to renegotiate the existing deal.
Reports indicate that the NFL is actively pursuing an increase in CBS's annual rights fee from $2.1 billion to $3 billion, which could take effect immediately. However, negotiations have reportedly stalled, partly due to legal challenges stemming from CBS's parent company's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
At a recent season-preview press event, CBS Sports president David Berson addressed the ongoing negotiations. He emphasized the strong relationship between CBS and the NFL, stating, "We’re in constant conversation; we have so much business with them on so many other levels. There’s nothing to report on this right now, but the relationship is outstanding. We’re talking to them every day." Berson also highlighted CBS's viewership success and the network's longstanding dominance as the number one network for 17 of the last 18 years, underscoring the value both parties find in their partnership.
While the NFL could theoretically choose to end its partnership with CBS and explore other broadcasting options, the logistics of such a move are complicated. The other major networks already have established broadcasting windows, and it is unlikely that they would be willing to absorb CBS's Sunday afternoon slate of games. Maintaining this slate on traditional broadcast television is crucial for the NFL, as a significant shift to streaming could provoke backlash from fans and stakeholders.
Currently, Fox holds the rights to its Sunday afternoon games, leaving NBC and ABC with prime-time packages. If CBS were to secure a new deal with a substantial fee increase, it could create tension among the other networks, who are still bound by their existing agreements. The situation remains delicate, and it seems unlikely that any new deals will be finalized before the start of the 2026 regular season, which aligns with the NFL's apparent timeline.
As a result, discussions may be deferred until 2027, which could potentially give NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell additional leverage in ongoing contract negotiations, as his current contract is set to expire in March. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched, as they will have significant implications for the future of NFL broadcasting.
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