NFL sells NFL Network and other media assets to ESPN, receiving a 10% ownership stake in exchange
The National Football League (NFL) has announced a significant media deal with ESPN, marking a strategic partnership that combines the NFL's media assets with ESPN's broad distribution and digital innovation.
Under the terms of the agreement, ESPN will acquire NFL Network, the NFL's RedZone channel's linear rights, and the NFL Fantasy Football platform. In return, the NFL will receive a 10% equity stake in ESPN, which is majority-owned by The Walt Disney Company with Hearst holding a minority stake.
Merging of Fantasy Football Platforms
ESPN will merge the NFL Fantasy Football product with its own, making ESPN Fantasy Football the official NFL fantasy game. This integration aims to create a more comprehensive and engaging experience for fans.
Programming and Distribution Impact
The NFL Network remains a standalone channel operated by ESPN, but the NFL retains control of NFL Films, NFL.com, NFL+, the NFL Podcast Network, and other digital properties. For the 2025 NFL season, the NFL Network and RedZone programming and availability will remain unchanged, with RedZone continuing to be produced and operated by the NFL, including host Scott Hanson.
ESPN will air three additional NFL games per season (totaling 28 windows), while NFL Network will continue broadcasting seven games, mostly international contests. Some games may shift between ESPN and NFL Network, with ESPN controlling the calls and broadcasts on NFL Network going forward.
RedZone's linear channel distribution to pay TV operators stays under NFL control but will be integrated from ESPN's side with licensing agreements. NFL Network will be available to customers who pay for cable or satellite TV and will also be added to ESPN's upcoming direct-to-consumer streaming service.
Aiming to Enhance Fan Engagement
This deal represents a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing fan engagement, expanding consumer choice, and bolstering ESPN’s streaming offerings. The deal is subject to regulatory approval and NFL team owner consent.
Disney CEO Bob Iger reiterated that the deal paves the way for the world’s leading sports media brand and America’s most popular sport to deliver an even more compelling experience for NFL fans. NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, stated that the Network’s sale to ESPN will build on its remarkable legacy, providing more NFL football for more fans in new and innovative ways.
The new ESPN streaming service, expected to launch as early as this month, costing $29.99 per month, will provide access to various sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, and the NCAA Women's Basketball Championship, as well as shows such as "SportsCenter" and "Pardon the Interruption."
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders revealed a 400% pay increase in the new season of their Netflix series, which is not directly related to the NFL-ESPN deal.
[1] NFL sells NFL Network, RedZone channel to ESPN
[2] NFL sells NFL Network to ESPN in media rights deal
[3] NFL to sell NFL Network, RedZone to ESPN
[4] NFL sells NFL Network, RedZone channel to ESPN
[5] NFL Network, RedZone to be operated by ESPN, NFL keeps control of digital properties
[1] The National Football League (NFL) has announced the sale of the NFL Network and RedZone channel to ESPN.[2] In a significant media deal, the NFL has agreed to sell the NFL Network and RedZone channel's linear rights to ESPN.[3] ESPN acquires the NFL Network and RedZone channel from the NFL in a strategic partnership deal.[4] The NFL has transferred the ownership of its NFL Network and RedZone channel to ESPN in a major media deal.[5] Under the terms of the agreement, ESPN will operate the NFL Network and RedZone channel while the NFL retains control of its digital properties.
