NFL Appealing ‘Sunday Ticket’ Verdict, Commissioner Goodell Speaks Out

The NFL has announced its intention to appeal the recent verdict in the ‘Sunday Ticket’ case, which saw the league ordered to pay a staggering $4.7 billion in residential class damages and $96 million in commercial class damages. Commissioner Roger Goodell has spoken out about the league’s stance on the matter, stating that they “feel strongly about [their] position and policies.”

Goodell addresses the media

In an interview with CNBC, Goodell emphasized the league’s commitment to making its content available to the broadest possible audience, citing ‘Sunday Ticket’ as a complementary product. “We’re committed to following the litigation, all the way and making sure that we get this right,” he said. The appeal is set to be heard on July 31, with the NFL taking its case to the 9th Circuit.

The legal battle, which was originally filed in 2015, centers around allegations that the league violated antitrust laws by inflating the price of ‘Sunday Ticket’, making it unaffordable to many fans. The plaintiffs argue that the league worked with network partners to drive up the cost of the product, while the NFL maintains that the price reflects the premium nature of the service.

Fans enjoy a Sunday afternoon game

The case has significant implications for football fans across the country, with around 2.5 million people affected. Whether the NFL’s appeal is successful remains to be seen, but one thing is certain - this is a battle that will be closely watched by fans and legal experts alike.

The NFL logo

“Well, we obviously disagree with the jury verdict and we are committed obviously to following the legal process,” Goodell told CNBC.

As the appeal process plays out, fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome and its potential impact on the future of ‘Sunday Ticket’. Will the NFL succeed in its appeal, or will the verdict stand? Only time will tell.