The NFL is making moves to keep fans happy—and regulators off its back. According to a new report from CNBC's Alex Sherman, the league is planning a "slight increase" in its broadcast footprint for the upcoming season. This comes as the Justice Department and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) both investigate whether the NFL is fully honoring its antitrust exemption under the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961.

Here's the background: The NFL has long enjoyed a special exemption that lets it pool media rights across all 32 teams and sell them to TV partners. But FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has questioned whether that exemption should apply to games sold to cable networks and streaming services, not just traditional broadcast TV. With the Justice Department launching its own probe last month, the league is clearly feeling the heat.

The NFL has been quick to point out that 87% of all games last season aired on free, over-the-air broadcast networks—and that number jumps to 100% in a team's local market. That's a key stat for the league, especially as fans grumble about the growing fragmentation of sports broadcasting. Yes, the NFL has been spreading its games across platforms like Netflix, Peacock, ESPN+, Prime Video, and YouTube in recent years. But the league argues that even those streaming-exclusive games are still available on broadcast TV in the local markets of the teams playing.

Now, the NFL is looking to improve on that 87% figure next season. How? It's not entirely clear yet, but the details will be fascinating to watch. Reports already suggest YouTube is in line for a five-game package, and Netflix is looking to expand its NFL offerings. Expect more announcements as the schedule takes shape—and expect the league to keep pushing that "free, over-the-air" message loud and clear.

For fans, the bottom line is simple: more games on broadcast TV means easier access without needing a dozen streaming subscriptions. For the NFL, it's a strategic move to show regulators they're playing by the rules—and to keep the game accessible to everyone.