The NFL’s Broadcasting Shake-Up: Are CBS and Fox Being Phased Out?
For years, I’ve been sounding the alarm: the NFL’s shift from traditional networks like CBS and Fox to streaming services is coming sooner than most think. But here’s where it gets controversial—recent moves by the league suggest they’re not just shifting; they’re actively sidelining these long-time partners. Let me break it down for you.
During Week 18, the NFL handed the most high-stakes games—Panthers vs. Bucs, Seahawks vs. Niners, and Ravens vs. Steelers—to ESPN/ABC and NBC, leaving CBS and Fox with scraps. And this is the part most people miss: in the divisional round of the playoffs, CBS and Fox were stuck with the Saturday games, which historically draw lower ratings than Sunday’s primetime slots. Fox, in particular, must be fuming after being passed over for the Rams-Bears game, which went to NBC. Meanwhile, CBS was left with the Bills-Broncos matchup, likely the lowest-rated game of the weekend due to its timeslot. It’s almost as if the NFL is preparing these networks for the inevitable breakup—a harsh reality for companies paying $2.1 billion and $2.2 billion annually for their NFL packages.
Bold Question: Is the NFL intentionally devaluing CBS and Fox’s broadcasting rights to ease the transition to streaming? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
Shifting gears, let’s talk about the postseason’s most electrifying play so far: Sheldon Rankins’ touchdown on Monday night. It wasn’t just a big guy scoring—it was the sheer dominance he displayed. Rankins obliterated Steelers lineman Isaac Seumalo, recovered the fumble, and rumbled 33 yards for the score. That play encapsulated Houston’s physicality on both sides of the ball. If you haven’t seen it, trust me, it’s worth the replay.
In other news, Miami’s semifinal win over Ole Miss last Thursday was a thriller on the field but a ratings dud, drawing only 15.8 million viewers—the second-lowest in playoff history. And speaking of surprises, Tom Brady’s latest venture might raise some eyebrows. He’s now the Chief Wellness Officer for eMedHealth, promoting healthier lifestyles while also partnering with Pizza Hut. Yes, you read that right. Controversial Take: Can a pizza chain genuinely advocate for wellness, or is this just clever marketing? Share your take below.
On a lighter note, I’ve discovered a new favorite TikToker—a wrestling enthusiast who’s a must-watch for fans of Something to Wrestle With or Conrad Thompson. Check out his YouTube link if you can’t access TikTok. And for podcast lovers, this week’s SI Media With Jimmy Traina features an in-depth interview with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge. She dives into her multifaceted roles, addresses recent controversies surrounding her postgame interviews, and shares behind-the-scenes stories, including her viral sprint during the Sugar Bowl. It’s a candid conversation you won’t want to miss.
Finally, happy 65th birthday to Julia Louis-Dreyfus! Her iconic line on David Letterman’s final Top 10 List remains unforgettable. Catch up on past editions of Traina Thoughts and the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or Google, and follow Jimmy on X and Instagram for more updates.
Thought-Provoking Question: As the NFL’s broadcasting landscape evolves, who stands to gain the most—viewers, streaming platforms, or the league itself? Let’s debate it in the comments!
