Google may be, possibly, could be readying itself to make a bid for the rights to the NFL Sunday Ticket package, according to Peter Kafka of AllThingsD.com. Among other things, Google CEO Larry Page and YouTube Head of Content and Business Operations Robert Kyncl met with an NFL delegation headed by commissioner Roger Goodell on Wednesday to discuss the package, according to sources.
Is Google vying for NFL Sunday Ticket?
Google CEO Larry Page is meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Wednesday. Among the topics of conversation: the NFL Sunday Ticket package and DirecTV’s expiring contract after the 2014 season.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
At this point, it does not appear that negotiations have moved past the stage of informal inquiry. A power deal between Google and the NFL could be a long way off if it happens at all. As Kafka notes, however, it makes sense that companies would start making their interest in the package known now. DirecTV’s current contract for the subscription television service will end after the 2014 season.
DirecTV currently spends $1 billion per year for the package, a bill that Google could manage comfortably. Google reported $14.11 billion in revenue and $3.23 billion in net income last quarter.
Putting the NFL Sunday Ticket package in Google’s hands could have benefits for fans. For starters, it would open the package up to those who don’t have the means, financially or physically, to stick a satellite dish on their roof for television service. A wider audience could also dilute the cost for fans. DirecTV is charging $225 for the 2013 season, though the company does offer a variety of bundling options.
If Google is looking to enter the television market, becoming involved with the most popular American professional sport might not be a bad way to go.
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