NFL, MLB, Other Leagues Could Soon Get Counter-Drone Support

NFL in 2024 experienced more than 2,800 drone incursions into the temporary flight restrictions around its stadiums.

Jack Daleo

Friday, December 12, 2025 at 09:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

A November 2023 NFL game at M&T Bank Stadium, home to the Baltimore Ravens, was halted twice because of a rogue drone. [Credit: Joey Pulone/Baltimore Ravens]

Key Takeaways:

U.S. professional sports leagues and major public gatherings are experiencing a significant increase in unauthorized drone incursions, posing security threats that current federal response capabilities are insufficient to consistently address.
The U.S. House passed the Safer Skies Act, a provision within the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), to empower state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments with the authority to detect and mitigate rogue drones.
This act aims to enhance security for upcoming large-scale events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics by allowing trained and certified SLTT authorities to intercept drones using approved technology, supported by federal grants and stricter penalties for violations.

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The National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), and other American professional sports leagues could soon receive some much-needed support to counter a spike in drone incursions.

The U.S. House on Wednesday voted 312-112 to pass the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which contains a little-known but consequential provision called the Safer Skies Act.