Sports Media with Richard Deitsch SBJ's Ben Fischer on the NFL's biggest business stories — and whether we could ever see a 20-game regular season
Nov 19, 2025
Ben Fischer, a Sports Business Journal reporter focused on the NFL, dives into the intricate world of professional football business. He discusses the challenge of selecting Roger Goodell's successor and which candidates are in the running. Fischer highlights the NFL's international strategy, touching on the promising Spanish market and future games in Australia and Mexico. He also debates the possibility of a 20-game regular season and examines the league's evolving relationship with streaming giants like Netflix as they cater to younger audiences.
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International 'Fan' Numbers Are Marketing Metrics
- NFL fan counts abroad likely use broad marketing definitions rather than deep emotional fandom.
- Ben Fischer suggests 'fan' often means someone in the league's digital funnel, not a committed supporter.
Big Markets Face Practical Barriers
- India and China present major population opportunities but bring venue, security and political complications.
- The NFL prioritizes markets where playing a game is feasible; Australia and Mexico are closer-term targets.
Turn Game Demand Into Digital Customers
- Use international games as marketing tools to capture large lists of interested fans beyond stadium capacity.
- Convert event interest into digital subscribers, merchandise buyers, and sustained attention.