Netflix Fatigue May Be Hitting Sports Docuseries

As athletes become more open to sharing their personal lives, 2023 has been the biggest year yet for sports documentaries, with new shows surrounding tennis, golf, cycling, and the NFL — all on the back of immense success surrounding “Drive To Survive” and Formula 1. 

But as the fever for behind-the-scenes content crests, some athletes appear to be less welcoming to the cameras.

When the Ryder Cup takes place in Italy later this month, Netflix won’t have full access to Team USA while it films the remaining stages of Season 2 of “Full Swing.” USA captain Zach Johnson said the 12 golfers decided together not to allow Netflix into their team rooms.

Still, it won’t stop Netflix. Season 1 of “Full Swing” didn’t follow players during last fall’s President’s Cup in Charlotte, North Carolina, and even with limited access, the streaming giant’s presence will still be felt at the Ryder Cup.

Season 2 cast members haven’t been announced, but Front Office Sports can confirm Netflix cameras were following and filming Rory McIlroy — who participated in Season 1 — at the Tour Championship in Atlanta last month.

‘Quarterback’ Audible?

Netflix’s “Quarterback” series, which starred Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes along with Kirk Cousins and Marcus Mariota in its debut season, has been having trouble finding willing participants for its followup.

“I think maybe some guys are thinking that it is going to be a distraction,” said Peyton Manning, an executive producer for the show.

On Wednesday, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford said he had discussions with Netflix but wasn’t sure there was going to be a second season. During training camps, several high-profile stars like Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen said they declined invites to participate in the show.