Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu is taking action after finding out that his team’s AFC Wild Card game against the Miami Dolphins will only be available for streaming. Instead of being angry about it, Omenihu has decided to give away 90 three-month subscriptions to Peacock, the streaming service that inked a $110 million deal to stream the game.
The decision to stream the game exclusively on Peacock has been met with criticism, with some social media users speculating that NBC is trying to get Taylor Swift fans, also known as Swifties, to sign up for the service just to catch glimpses of the pop star whenever the camera cuts to her. However, it should be noted that the deal was made before Swift and Travis Kelce’s romance began to blossom in December.
While some people, like Mike Francesa, have criticized the decision not to broadcast the game on free TV, comparing it to how Thursday Night Football is shown on Amazon Prime, Omenihu’s response is a refreshing one. By giving away subscriptions to Peacock, he is actively finding a solution for those who may not have access to streaming services or simply prefer to watch the game on traditional television.
Omenihu, who played college football at Texas and joined the Chiefs this season after time with Houston and San Francisco, has been a valuable player for his team. In 11 games this season, he has recorded 18 tackles, five tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits, seven sacks, and two forced fumbles. His on-field performance combined with his off-field generosity makes him a standout athlete.
This gesture by Omenihu serves as a reminder that athletes have the power to make a positive impact beyond the realm of sports. By using his platform to provide access to the game for those who may have otherwise missed out, he is showing that he cares about the fans and wants everyone to be able to enjoy the game, regardless of their streaming preferences or financial capabilities.
It will be interesting to see how Omenihu’s giveaway unfolds and if it inspires other athletes to take similar actions in the future. In a world where streaming services are becoming increasingly dominant in the sports broadcasting landscape, it is important to find ways to ensure that no fan is left behind. Omenihu’s initiative is a step in the right direction and should be applauded for its thoughtfulness and inclusivity.
