The National Football League (NFL) is reportedly considering the addition of a game on the night before Thanksgiving, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter. This potential expansion of the schedule is slated to possibly begin as soon as the 2026 season. The NFL, known for its aggressive strategy in securing media rights, often moves swiftly in implementing changes, which raises the likelihood of seeing this Thanksgiving Eve game sooner rather than later.

The motivation behind this expansion is primarily financial, as the NFL is currently exploring ways to increase its revenue streams. Notably, Netflix pays $75 million for each game it broadcasts on Christmas Day, and the league could anticipate a similar financial arrangement from streaming services for a game on Thanksgiving Eve. Given the competitive landscape among streaming platforms, with companies like Alphabet's YouTube showing eagerness to invest, the NFL is positioned to leverage its popularity for significant financial gain.

Additionally, the NFL's recent trend of expanding its game schedule, including considerations for early-season and holiday matchups, indicates a broader strategy to capitalize on viewership and advertising revenues. As audiences continue to draw more attendees and viewers to such games, the league is positioned to benefit from increased ratings and potential lucrative contracts, aligning with its overall business model focused on maximizing exposure and revenue from its game offerings.