NFL owners are finally embracing legalized sports wagering and the reason is simple: money. Fans are not only more engaged when they wager money on games since they have something riding on it, but there are also other benefits as well. Games with spread bets — bets that give or take away points from a team — often come down to the wire with points factored in regardless of the actual outcome of the contest. Fans may also wager on games not involving their favorite team which creates extra games people are interested in. Legalized gambling is going to make the NFL money and they know it. In fact, one of the most influential owners in the league told us they are aware of the fact.
NFL broadcast rights are most expensive in American sports as is. The league’s television deals are valued in the billions with each partner. All the deals run out at the same time in 2021-2022. By then, multiple states should have legalized sports gaming.
Jones is just saying what everyone knows already, but he’s also letting the NFL’s television partners know that they should expect a hefty price tag. CBS and Fox have deals valued at $9 billion. If we take Jones’ words truthfully, it means that they are paying at least $13 billion on the next deal. The NFL has a $25 billion revenue goal it has to hit. Legalized sports gambling is exactly what the owners needed to reach that level.
