NFL bars teams from using Bluesky, sticking to X and Meta

The NFL has reaffirmed its stance on social media usage, limiting teams to platforms like X and Meta while steering clear of Bluesky.

The decision follows a revelation by Patriots VP of content, Fred Kirsch, who shared that the team had briefly tested Bluesky before being directed by the league to remove the platform due to its lack of approval. Kirsch was appearing on the January 16 episode of the Patriots Unfiltered podcast.

Bluesky, now home to over 28 million users, has gained traction as an alternative to X amid concerns over the platform's shifting political leanings under Elon Musk's ownership.

The migration of sports teams and journalists to Bluesky signals a growing interest in platforms beyond X, with Bundesliga clubs such as FC St. Pauli leading the way as early adopters in November.

However, the NFL, which has strong partnerships with Meta and X, remains hesitant to expand its presence on Bluesky.

Despite the growing wave of sports media personalities and fans flocking to the platform, the league's decision is reportedly more tied to business interests than any ideological alignment with Musk or Zuckerberg.

While Bluesky is gaining ground, the NFL's official involvement is notably absent. Several NFL teams, including the Detroit Lions, New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, and Philadelphia Eagles, have established unofficial accounts, but these are unverified and likely run by fans, as confirmed by Kirsch.

NFL spokespersons are yet to comment on the matter.

As Bluesky continues to attract attention, the NFL's steadfast approach underscores its commitment to established partnerships, leaving its teams in a holding pattern when it comes to expanding their social media presence beyond X and Meta.