NFL Eases Single-Header Protection Rule For TV Partners

The NFL has further relaxed the "single-header protection rule," which prohibits one network from airing a game in a market where a home team is currently playing on the other network. For example, the rule prohibits Fox from airing a game in N.Y. while the Jets are playing at home on CBS, even if Fox had the right to air games in both Sunday afternoon timeslots as part of its package. Long criticized by fans, the rule is especially problematic in N.Y. and L.A., where one of the two teams plays at home most weeks.

Markets will now be permitted to "break" this rule up to four times this year, up from two times last year. Owners approved the change unanimously today. NFL Exec VP/Media Brian Rolapp: “At the end of the day, it just means more football for more fans, and more people will get more games on Sunday.” The rule was already on the way out, but liberalized distribution rules are likely to take on greater importance with in-person attendance in many markets appearing unlikely because of the pandemic.