In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, NFL executive V.P. of media distribution, Hans Schroeder, revealed that the league currently has a policy of not staging games when Christmas falls on a Tuesday or Wednesday. However, there may be a change on the horizon as Christmas in 2024 is set to land on a Wednesday.

Schroeder's statement has sparked speculation about the potential alteration in the league's approach to scheduling games during the holiday season. While the current policy aims to avoid conflicts with Christmas celebrations, the lucrative television revenue associated with these games may prompt the NFL to reconsider their stance.

Despite the logistical challenges, the league has demonstrated its ability to adapt during the pandemic. Games were successfully played on both Tuesdays and Wednesdays amidst the uncertainties of the COVID-19 crisis, proving that the NFL can navigate scheduling obstacles when necessary.

Adjusting the schedule for Christmas 2024 may require creative solutions such as having the six teams slated to play on that day compete on the prior Thursday or Friday. Alternatively, bye weeks could be strategically utilized to provide the Christmas teams with the preceding weekend off.

The NFL's motivation to maximize revenue cannot be underestimated. The league has consistently pursued every opportunity to expand its financial reach. Given the success of games held on non-traditional days during the pandemic, it seems unlikely that the NFL would willingly surrender the television spotlight it has claimed from other sports leagues, notably the NBA.

While the current position remains firm on abstaining from Tuesday and Wednesday games on Christmas, it seems probable that this stance will evolve by 2024. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting an official announcement from the league regarding the potential changes to the Christmas game schedule.

If the NFL does decide to maintain the current policy, it would come as a surprise to many observers who perceive the league's drive for revenue as its primary motivation. The ability to rearrange the calendar for the benefit of fans, players, and television broadcasters may be too enticing to resist.

As the passage of time eventually brings Christmas closer to the middle of the week, only time will tell if the NFL adheres to tradition or embraces the opportunity for further financial gain. The decision will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for football fans worldwide and the industry as a whole.