NFL Sees Massive International Success With Steelers In Ireland

The NFL also saw massive success with the game, as a report released Wednesday morning highlighted impressive ratings. The Vikings-Steelers matchup drew 7.9 million viewers across TV and digital platforms, an increase of 68 percent compared to NFL Network’s 2024 international games average. The strong viewership underscores the growing global appeal of the league and highlights how games like this continue to expand the NFL’s reach beyond U.S. borders.

"Viewership for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 24-21 win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday at Croke Park in Dublin was 7.9 million viewers* (TV+Digital) – ranking as the second most-watched NFL Network International Game on record behind only the 2023 Miami Dolphins-Kansas City Chiefs game in Frankfurt, Germany," the NFL said. "The 7.9 million viewers for Vikings-Steelers is up +68% versus NFL Network’s 2024 International Games average. Additionally, Vikings-Steelers averaged over nine million viewers from 12:30 p.m. ET until the end of the game."

As mentioned in the quote, in 2023, the international game played in Frankfurt, Germany between the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs, is the only game in the international series that amassed more viewership than the Steelers game. 

That is largely due to the Steelers’ popularity and their rich history in Dublin. 

"The 2025 International Games continue with three consecutive games in London beginning this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. ET with the Vikings facing the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, exclusively on NFL Network and available to stream across devices with NFL+."

The NFL has many more international games planned for the 2025 season and beyond. Commissioner Roger Goodell is working hard to make the NFL a global game, and his goal is for more of these games to take place, eventually one for every NFL team each season.

Steelers Start Hot In Dublin 

The Steelers got off to a strong start in the Week 4 contest in Ireland. Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers connected with DK Metcalf for an early 80-yard touchdown. Kenneth Gainwell carried the ball 19 times for 99 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. He also added six catches for 35 receiving yards.

The Steelers struggled to close out the game and allowed the Vikings to get close, but Pittsburgh ultimately won 24-21. The victory improved the team’s record to 3-1 on the 2025 season just before their bye week.