The NFL’s 2025 Christmas Day slate is once again breaking from tradition by moving all of its action to streaming platforms instead of cable television. For the second year in a row, fans wanting live Christmas games will need to subscribe to digital services — a shift that reflects the league’s growing partnership with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
On Thursday, December 25, the league has scheduled three thrilling matchups for Week 17 of the season. The holiday begins with a 1 p.m. Eastern kickoff as the Dallas Cowboys take on the Washington Commanders, followed by a 4:30 p.m. clash between the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. Both of these afternoon games will be streamed exclusively on Netflix, meaning that a current Netflix subscription is required to watch live. Later in the evening, the Denver Broncos host the Kansas City Chiefs at 8:15 p.m. Eastern in a matchup that will be available on Amazon Prime Video.
Unlike in years past when cable networks like CBS, NBC, or ESPN would carry at least one marquee Christmas game, the 2025 holiday schedule leaves traditional broadcast behind entirely. Fans who want to follow every quarter of action must either sign up for the respective streaming platforms or use NFL+ on mobile devices, especially if they’re away from home or on the go.
The shift underscores the NFL’s ongoing strategy to broaden its digital reach and adapt to changing viewing habits. With streaming services now central to how the league distributes some of its most high-profile holiday games, Christmas Day football is becoming a distinctly modern viewing experience.