ESPN Acquires NFL Assets: A New Chapter for Football Fans
In a piece of news that shakes the sports world, ESPN has announced the acquisition of NFL Network and other media assets from the National Football League (NFL). This strategic agreement, which includes the linear rights to the popular RedZone channel, will see the NFL obtain a 10% stake in the sports network. The acquisition also encompasses the NFL’s fantasy product, which will be integrated into ESPN’s existing platform, making ESPN Fantasy Football the official game of the NFL. In addition, the NFL has agreed to license additional content and intellectual property to ESPN that will appear on NFL Network and other platforms. Under this new agreement, NFL Network will be owned and operated by ESPN, who will control the network’s linear and digital rights. The integration of NFL Network into ESPN’s upcoming direct-to-consumer streaming platform promises a more complete experience for fans, while still being available through traditional television providers.As part of the agreement, ESPN will also license three additional NFL games per season, bringing its total to 28. NFL Network will continue to broadcast seven games per season, with some changes to ESPN’s original programming. The specific dates and games have not yet been announced. All games owned by ESPN will be broadcast on both the linear platform and the direct-to-consumer streaming platform. ESPN will own extensive rights to RedZone, including the trademark, and will continue to distribute the channel to pay-TV operators. The NFL will continue to own, operate, and produce the RedZone channel, retaining digital distribution rights. The league will also maintain ownership and operation of some of its media businesses, including NFL Films and NFL.com.By combining these NFL media assets with ESPN’s reach and innovation, we are creating a premier destination for football fans. Together, ESPN and the NFL are redefining how fans interact with the game, anytime, anywhere.
Jimmy Pitaro, President of ESPN
ESPN’s acquisition of NFL Network marks a significant moment in the evolution of sports coverage, promising new ways to connect fans with American football. The agreements between ESPN and the NFL are subject to the approval of the NFL owners and government regulators.This announcement paves the way for the world’s leading sports media brand and the most popular sport in the United States to offer an even more compelling experience for NFL fans, in a way that only ESPN and Disney can.
Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company
