The NFL will face another trial over its Sunday Ticket package after an appeals court revived a major antitrust case. However, the league’s $4.7 billion verdict won’t be reinstated.
What We Know: The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a lower court’s decision to throw out a 2024 jury verdict against the NFL and its 32 teams. The lawsuit alleged the league violated antitrust laws by restricting how networks could distribute out-of-market games. A jury originally awarded consumers $4.7 billion after finding the league overcharged Sunday Ticket subscribers. However, the appeals court ordered a new trial on damages after determining the original award wasn’t supported by a proper consideration of the evidence. The panel also ruled that a lower court improperly excluded expert testimony from Daniel Rascher, who compared NFL broadcasting arrangements to college football.
What They Said: “Opinions are neither unfounded nor unreliable merely because they are impeachable. Such opinions are for the jury to weigh at trial.” -Three Judge Panel
What Remains Unclear: The case now returns to district court, where a new jury will consider damages. Meanwhile, the NFL said it’s evaluating its options for further appellate review.
What It Means: The ruling represents another setback for the NFL as it defends its Sunday Ticket distribution model. Although the original $4.7 billion award won’t stand, consumers will get another opportunity to challenge the league’s broadcasting arrangements. The outcome could have significant implications for how the NFL distributes out-of-market games.
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