The National Football League will kick off a new digital network this summer called NFL Now that will stream customized content to fans’ smartphones, tablets and other screens.
While fans will not have access to live games, they will find a library of highlight clips, special original content for each team, and archival material from NFL Films. NFL Now also allows users to set their team preferences, so a Chicago Bears fan won’t be bombarded with content about the Green Bay Packers.
The initial NFL Now service will be free for users, although a premium subscription product is planned for a later date.
The NFL is just the latest player in the sports media industry to jump into the digital space with OTT and VOD offerings. ESPN’s authenticated WatchESPN app offers highlight clips, supplemental content and live games, while the WWE announced a 24/7 streaming TV app at this year’s CES.
Read More: Los Angeles Times, Adweek
Brief Take: With greater number’s of fans looking to interact digitally with their favorite team, the NFL is creating a service that can foster engagement and buzz, without harming its lucrative broadcast agreements with the networks.
Tags: