Joe Theismann Criticizes NFL’s Shift From Tradition

Super Bowl champion Joe Theismann has voiced his concerns about the NFL straying from its traditional roots. The league has expanded its schedule, introducing games on holidays and overseas. This has led to games being played outside the usual Sunday afternoon slot.

Theismann highlighted the significant changes in broadcasting, stating, “They’ve drifted away (from tradition). Now, various streaming services and networks like YouTube, Amazon, and Peacock are involved. Previously, it was mainly ABC, NBC, and CBS.”

He noted that Sundays were once eagerly awaited by fans. These days, NFL games are available almost every day, with additional games on Monday, Thursday, and even Wednesday. The 2026 season opener will be on a Wednesday, followed by another game in Melbourne, Australia, on a Thursday. The NFL has also introduced a Thanksgiving Eve game.

“Sunday is something you would look forward to sitting down to because you really didn’t have an option. Now you have options on Monday night, Thursday night, Wednesday night. God only knows, Tuesday night, Saturday evening. If you’re a fan of the NFL, you’re going to find the game,” Theismann said.

The NFL also plans a Black Friday game and three Christmas Day games. Once the college football regular season wraps up in December, Saturday games will begin as well.

Theismann admitted the expansion offers fans easier access to games. “You don’t have to read about it the next day,” he said. Although he values tradition, Theismann acknowledged the need for adaptation.

In addition to his observations about the NFL, Theismann discussed his involvement in the American Century Championship. Having participated in 36 out of 37 tournaments, he looks forward to playing again at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe. He praised the event for allowing participants to connect with celebrities and noted the tournament’s charitable efforts, which have raised over $8 million for charities.

The tournament will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock, with American Century Investments donating a portion of its profits to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. CEO Jonathan Thomas was commended by Theismann for his role in fundraising efforts.