YouTube is going all-in for its first exclusive NFL broadcast and will have IShowSpeed provide live commentary for the league’s first Friday night game of the 2025 regular season.
The Google-owned platform, which reportedly paid at least $100 million for the global rights, announced that four creators will use its Watch With feature to deliver alternate commentary streams during the September 5 NFL game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo.
IShowSpeed, who boasts 43.3 million subscribers, will headline the English-language coverage alongside Packers fan creator Tom Grossi, whose channel has 861,000 subscribers. Spanish-speaking audiences will get commentary from Robegrill and SKabeche.
YouTube spices up its exclusive NFL broadcast
Speed’s reach dwarfs the NFL’s own YouTube channel, which has 14.8M subscribers. The move highlights just how much YouTube is leaning on creators to draw audiences for its landmark NFL broadcast.
They won’t be the only personalities involved. As per The Wrap, YouTuber and former kicker Deestroying will serve as a sideline correspondent alongside veteran reporter Stacey Dales. The pre-show will feature fantasy sports creator Peter Overzet and Up and Adams host Kay Adams. Plus, the halftime show will be performed by KAROL G.
YouTube secured the rights to stream the game for free worldwide earlier this year, a first for the league. The investment is expected to be recouped through advertising, as the company positions itself as a major sports broadcaster.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. ET on September 5, marking the NFL’s second regular season game ever played in Brazil.
