ESPN will acquire NFL Network and related media assets — including NFL RedZone and NFL Fantasy — in exchange for granting the National Football League a 10% equity stake in ESPN.
The transformative agreement, announced on Aug. 5, aims to consolidate football media under ESPN’s upcoming direct-to-consumer service while expanding fan access.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell noted the legacy of the NFL Network over the last 22 years.
“Its sale to ESPN builds on our remarkable history, providing more football in innovative ways,” Goodell said.
Under the pending deal, ESPN will acquire NFL Network’s linear and digital operations and integrate them fully into ESPN’s standalone streaming platform, which will launch Aug. 21. NFL RedZone will join Disney’s linear network portfolio for traditional TV distribution, while ESPN Fantasy Football and NFL Fantasy will merge into a unified, league-sanctioned product.
ESPN also secures rights to three additional NFL games annually for NFL Network, adjusting its overall schedule to include four shifted matchups. The network will continue airing seven games per season.
Chief Executive Officer of Disney Bob Iger emphasized consumer benefits.
“This paves the way for more compelling experiences only ESPN and Disney can deliver — increasing choice, convenience and streaming value,” Iger said.
The acquisition positions ESPN’s streaming service as football’s central hub. NFL Network content will remain accessible via cable/satellite while flowing into ESPN’s digital ecosystem.
The NFL retains ownership of NFL Films, NFL+, team sites and digital rights for RedZone.
The transaction requires final approvals from NFL team owners and definitive agreements. If ratified, it will reshape football media ahead of ESPN’s DTC launch.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook or TikTok @Horsemensportsmedia. For more sports, click here.
