President Donald Trump didn't hold back when asked about the NFL's recent business practices and rule changes, warning that the league might be "killing the golden goose" with its approach to fans and the game itself.
In a candid interview on Sunday's Full Measure, Trump addressed the Department of Justice's ongoing probe into the NFL's streaming strategies, which have shifted many games from free broadcast television to paid platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, Peacock, and YouTube. The investigation, launched last month, examines whether these moves harm viewers through anticompetitive tactics.
"I don't like it. They're making a lot of money. They could make a little bit less. They could let the people see. You have people that live for Sunday," Trump said, emphasizing the financial strain on loyal fans who may not be able to afford multiple streaming subscriptions.
But the president's criticism didn't stop at pricing. He also took aim at the league's 2024 dynamic kickoff rule, designed to improve safety and encourage more returns. Trump called the change "stupid" and "unwatchable," arguing it detracts from the game's excitement.
"They could be killing the golden goose. I mean they have that stupid kickoff thing that you can't watch. It's unwatchable," he said. "I hate the games where they have the new phony kickoff. I don't think it's any safer. I hope college football doesn't do that."
For football fans, this isn't just about politics—it's about the soul of the sport. The NFL has long been America's most-watched league, with Sundays serving as a weekly ritual for millions. But as games become more fragmented across streaming services and on-field rules evolve, some worry the league is losing touch with its core audience.
Whether you agree with Trump's take or not, his comments highlight a growing tension between the NFL's business ambitions and fan accessibility. As the league navigates these challenges, one thing is clear: the relationship between the game and its followers is more important than ever.