Christmas Day game: A Grinch for Lions' Sewell?
It's the most wonderful time of the year... unless you're Detroit Lions right tackle Penei Sewell, apparently. The NFL's holiday schedule has stirred up some strong feelings, and Sewell isn't holding back.
This article, originally published on December 18, 2025, by Kory Woods of MLive, dives into Sewell's candid reaction to playing on Christmas Day. The Lions, already accustomed to their traditional Thanksgiving Day game, are now slated to hit the road to face the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day as part of Netflix's NFL game lineup.
Sewell, a three-time Pro Bowler, didn't mince words when discussing his feelings. He openly admitted, "I’m not happy," emphasizing the added burden of a Christmas game, especially away from home. "We already have Thanksgiving... and the fact that we have to play on Christmas (and) away, is something I wouldn’t want to do. So yeah, not fun, but it is what it is. It comes with the job. I’m going to do it.”
But here's where it gets controversial...
Since 1966, the Lions, along with the Dallas Cowboys, have held the unique distinction of hosting a home game on Thanksgiving Day every year. However, the league has expanded its holiday schedule, adding Christmas Day games since 2020. This shift presents a new set of challenges, particularly for teams like the Lions.
Thanksgiving games, traditionally played in the early afternoon, allow players to return home later that day. A Christmas game, especially on the road, requires extended travel and preparation, severely limiting precious family time during the holidays. This is a significant concern for Sewell, who is married with three young children.
Last year, as part of a three-year deal with Netflix to show games on Christmas Day, the league featured two games: the Kansas City Chiefs versus the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens versus the Houston Texans. This year, fans will see the Lions versus the Vikings and the Cowboys versus the Washington Commanders.
This upcoming game will mark the third time the Lions have played on Christmas. Historically, the team has struggled on this holiday, losing in both 1994 to the Miami Dolphins ( 27-20 ) and in 1999 to the Denver Broncos ( 17-7 ).
And this is the part most people miss...
This situation highlights the ongoing debate between the demands of professional sports and the importance of family time, especially during the holidays.
What do you think? Do you agree with Sewell's perspective, or do you believe playing on Christmas is just part of the job? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
