The NFL's media rights negotiations face a new challenge as the US Department of Justice opens an antitrust investigation into the league's TV contracts. The probe, reported by the Wall Street Journal, could reshape the $10bn annual deal set to expire in 2029, with analysts predicting new agreements could reach $15bn per year. This shift risks displacing traditional broadcasters like CBS, Fox, and NBC, which rely on NFL games to sustain their linear cable bundles. The NFL's current model, which includes 100% of team-market games on free broadcast TV, is under scrutiny as streamers like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video vie for exclusive rights.

Analysts warn that rising costs could burden fans, with affiliate rate hikes and ad pricing likely passed to consumers. Meanwhile, the league emphasizes its accessibility, citing record viewership in 2025. Sixth Street's women's football push gains traction as Bay Collective acquires a majority stake in Sunderland Women, signaling growing institutional investment in the sport. The $3bn women's sport revenue projection by 2026 highlights the sector's potential, though challenges remain in converting Sunderland's WSL2 position into top-tier success.