Christmas is no longer just about family gatherings, holiday cheer, and festive meals; it has also become synonymous with NFL action. This year marks another milestone when the NFL takes to the field on December 25, 2024, showcasing two highly anticipated matchups: the Pittsburgh Steelers will clash with the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Houston Texans will face off against the Baltimore Ravens. What makes this year particularly noteworthy is the shift to streaming, with all the action broadcasted exclusively on Netflix—a first for the league.
The roots of NFL Christmas Day games can be traced back to 1971, which saw thrilling matches, including a legendary playoff game between the Miami Dolphins and the Kansas City Chiefs, renowned for being the longest game ever played—stretching to double overtime. Initially, the league refrained from scheduling Christmas games due to concerns about disrupting family traditions. But since 1989, the league has embraced the holiday spirit, and since 2020, fans have had the assurance of Christmas games every year.
This holiday season, fans can expect excitement as Netflix climbs aboard to stream the festivities for $150 million, ensuring high-quality viewing and exclusive content. A pre-game show will set the stage, enhancing the overall experience for viewers. The key matchups promise to deliver football drama alongside special performances during halftime—none other than the famed Beyoncé, creating buzz around both sports and entertainment on this special day.
For players, the experience of playing on Christmas is mixed. Lamar Jackson, the quarterback for the Ravens, expressed his mixed feelings, indicating, “It’s Christmas Day and it means we’re doing well, but I want to celebrate at home sometimes with family.” His sentiments reflect those of many players who find themselves torn between fulfilling their professional duties and enjoying personal moments with loved ones during the holiday.
Jackson will lead his team against the Texans, and his family-focused approach harmonizes with teammate inquiries about how to merge team obligations with holiday spirit. The plan around the Ravens camp involves team gatherings when possible, with Jackson indicating his pre-Christmas family celebrations to help ease the tension of playing on the holiday.
While younger players may embrace this newfound tradition, some veteran voices remain skeptical. Ben Roethlisberger, the former Steelers quarterback, criticized the NFL for putting profits before player welfare, stating, “It’s ridiculous for the league to do this... they say they want to make the game safer, but force players to play three times within 11 days.” Roethlisberger’s outspoken opinion highlights the disparity between the league's safety protocols and its scheduling practices, which require athletes to exert themselves on minimal recovery time—particularly grueling in such a physically demanding sport.
Even with players expressing concerns about the compressed schedule and potential risks associated with it, the league seems committed to maintaining this Christmas Day tradition. With Netflix, the NFL is not only pushing the boundaries of how games are consumed but also enhancing fan engagement during the holiday season. Roethlisberger’s grievances raise ethical questions surrounding these developments, as he questions the league’s motives amid commercial pursuits.
Some players are preparing to spend Christmas away from family yet remain committed to giving their all on game day. Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs quarterback, mentioned the sacrifices players make during the holidays and expressed admiration for their families, especially his wife Brittany, who bears the load on the home front during these busy times. “Brittany is the champion because I’m not there to help with the toys and gifts the kids opened,” Mahomes noted, illustrating the toughest choices faced by players.
While NFL games have become almost routine during Christmas, they are still met with varied opinions. Players like Jackson cherish holiday games to inspire and entertain fans, but there’s understandable tension about sacrificing personal time for their passion. Meanwhile, the NFL’s push for streaming games on Netflix signifies more than just profit; it suggests the league's intention to grow its brand and reach viewers directly, making football part of America's holiday celebrations.
All eyes will be on December 25, 2024, as fans tune in to bask not only in the warmth of the holiday but also the thrill of football. With these games being unique events filled with emotional highs and tributes, the NFL appears poised to establish Christmas games as another significant tradition within American culture.
Whether fans are drawn for the sport, the star performances, or the shared experience with loved ones, this year's Christmas games promise to deliver on all fronts—a unique mixture of sportsmanship, family ties, and entertainment.
