[Joe Dallas]

There is a contract, the network writes the NFL a check.

For the years 2014-2022 the networks will pay the NFL $39.6 billion for the broadcast rights.

[jjotto]

I believe that contract can be adjusted based on viewers.

[Gay State Conservative]

For the years 2014-2022 the networks will pay the NFL $39.6 billion for the broadcast rights.

Yup,that seems pretty straightforward.However,although I'm not a lawyer you've gotta believe that mention is made in that "master" contract of unforeseen events...like a substantial drop in ratings.In such an event *someone's* gonna take a hit financially because advertisers aren't gonna pay "X" for a "Y" audience only to find that the audience is "Y minus Z".

[precisionshootist]

When that much money is involved I'm sure there are clauses the stipulate a certain level of product must be provided. I think the networks could and should say the NFL is not delivering on the deal that was agreed to in the contract. The network I'm sure did not agree to air the silly political grievances of millionare players. It's likely the NFL is violating the contract by not controlling the actions of it's players.