In a transformative media deal, the National Football League is set to acquire a 10 per cent equity stake in an American multinational sports media conglomerate, ESPN, as part of a broad agreement that shifts control of NFL Network and several key media assets to the Disney-owned sports giant.
Announced Tuesday, the non-binding deal positions ESPN to take over ownership and operations of NFL Network, while also securing licensing rights to NFL RedZone, NFL Films content, and three additional NFL games per season.
In exchange, the league deepens its investment in ESPN, strengthening ties between the two sports powerhouses.
“This agreement sets the stage for an enhanced NFL experience that only Disney and ESPN can provide,” said Walt Disney Company CEO Robert A. Iger, hailing the move as a major step toward delivering more immersive content for fans.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell echoed the sentiment, saying, “The sale of NFL Network to ESPN builds on its strong legacy and creates exciting new opportunities to reach fans through innovation and expanded access.”
As part of the arrangement, ESPN and the NFL will merge their fantasy football platforms, creating a more unified service.
While ESPN gains rights to three more NFL games per season, some of its current games will shift to NFL Network, which will still broadcast seven games annually.
RedZone’s branding and linear distribution rights will also fall under ESPN’s purview, though the NFL retains digital ownership and control of the channel.
“This is a win for sports fans,” said Jimmy Pitaro, chairman of ESPN. “We’re combining our reach and digital innovation with NFL content to offer a premier football destination and prepare for our direct-to-consumer future.”
The NFL will continue to manage properties such as NFL Films, NFL.com, and team websites, ensuring its digital footprint remains strong.
The deal is pending final negotiations and must receive approval from NFL team owners before becoming official.
