The NFL’s global expansion and shift to streaming are reshaping how fans engage with the game - and not always for the better.
To watch all games in 2025, fans spent up to $800 on subscriptions. Former New England Patriots stars Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman expressed mixed feelings about the changes.
"I'm all about mainstream," Gronkowski said, noting difficulties accessing streams while traveling. "As a businessman, I support growth, but I’m a TV guy."
Edelman echoed concerns over fragmented viewing but acknowledged financial gains. "The bigger the game gets, the more players get paid," he said. He cited Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s $42 million contract as evidence.
Despite safety concerns, discussions continue around extending the season to 18 games. The league plans an opening-week showdown in Australia, with careful scheduling intended to ease player recovery.
"The salary cap jumps every year because the game is expanding," Gronkowski noted. "If they schedule correctly, it benefits everyone."
Still, both agree the business model favors revenue growth - even if it complicates fan access and player health.