For four NFL teams, Christmas is still a workday.
While some Christmas matchups in the past haven’t really been critical or must-watch, the NFL either planned well or lucked out this year, with two leading teams facing off and two in search of a playoff berth.
The focus of viewers, though, will be as much on the platform airing the games as the players on the field. Netflix makes its first run at broadcasting the NFL on Christmas Day, with the glitchy performance of the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight still haunting it.
Will the streamer have its act together on an arguably bigger stage? There’s only one way to find out.
Which NFL teams are playing this week? And what channels are airing the games?
As always, the home team is listed second.
Wednesday, Dec. 25
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, 1:00 p.m. ET on Netflix
Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans, 4:30 p.m. ET on Netflix
When will Beyonce perform at halftime on Christmas day?
Beyoncé is the featured halftime performer during the Ravens/Texans matchup. That game begins at 4:30 p.m. ET. And yes, you can expect some special guests to pop up during the performance.
How can I watch today’s NFL games for free—even if I am out of market?
The best way to watch any sort of network programming for free on a big screen is with a good HD antenna. But the only way you can do that this week is if you’re in one of the four broadcast zones of the four teams’ home town. To ensure you’re getting the most reliable signal, be sure to test the antenna in multiple locations in your home.
Can I watch the Christmas Day NFL games for free?
Not unless you have a friend who subscribes to Netflix and they invite you over. The game will not be broadcast nationally on traditional TV or other streaming services.
Can I stream the Christmas Day NFL games live online if I don’t have a cable subscription?
Yes, but you only have one option.
Netflix
The streaming king is the exclusive home of this year’s Christmas games–as well as the ones in 2025 and 2026. There’s no free trial, but you can cancel at any time. Plans start at $6.99 per month for the ad-supported option and $15.49 for ad-free.
Can I watch the Christmas NFL games on Amazon?
Nope.
Does the NFL offer any viewing packages to watch the games I want?
Three of ‘em.
NFL App
The NFL App will let you stream games that are being broadcast locally in your market on Sundays. If you want to watch an “out of market” game, you’ve got two choices.
NFL+
Watch live local and out of market games and (with the premium subscription) replays. You’re looking at a $50 charge per season. ($100 for premium.)
NFL Sunday Ticket
YouTube once again is the home for this channel. Prices this year start at $73 per month for Sunday Ticket and YouTubeTV or $449 for just Sunday Ticket (spanning the entirety of out-of-market games this season).