NFL Network preseason ratings rise 3% under ESPN ownership
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 4:29 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

NFL Network's first preseason under ESPN ownership features six national game broadcasts, averaging 1.93 million viewers. This figure represents a 3% increase from the comparable non-Sunday games of the previous year. The Rams-Chiefs matchup drew the highest audience in Week 1 at 2.38 million viewers. NFL Network's ratings reflect a growing interest in preseason games, following a strong overall average of 2.2 million viewers per game across all networks last year. The preseason continues with additional broadcasts planned for the upcoming weeks, including Week 2 starting Thursday.
- •Rams-Chiefs game attracts 2.38 million viewers, highest in Week 1.
- •Average viewership rose from 1.88 million for non-Sunday games last year.
- •NFL Network transitioned to ESPN ownership on April 1.
- •Upcoming Week 2 games begin Thursday night.
- •The entire 2025 preseason averaged 2.2 million viewers per game.
- 4:29 PMYahoo Sports — NFL Network’s Initial ESPN Preseason Ratings Rise 3%
"Rams-Chiefs averaged a Week 1-high 2.38 million viewers.
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