NFL acquires 10% stake in ESPN as part of landmark media deal

In a landmark media shake-up, the NFL has sold its NFL Network and the popular Sunday RedZone broadcast to ESPN in exchange for a 10% ownership stake in the Disney-owned sports network. The deal, announced jointly by the NFL and ESPN on Tuesday, marks a major realignment in sports media and deepens the partnership between the two powerhouse brands.

As part of the agreement, NFL Fantasy Football will also merge with ESPN Fantasy Football, creating a unified platform for fans heading into future seasons.

The transaction is subject to approval by federal regulators - a process the NFL says could take several months. Until then, viewers and fantasy players should not expect any immediate changes to either ESPN or NFL Network’s programming or platforms.



The move gives the NFL a minority stake in one of the most powerful sports broadcasters in the US, while ESPN strengthens its football portfolio with full control of NFL Network and RedZone - two cornerstone properties during the NFL season.

"Today's announcement 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, in a way that only ESPN and Disney can," said Robert Iger, chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company, in a statement.

The NFL will permit ESPN to distribute NFL RedZone - the league’s popular Sunday whip-around show featuring live scoring plays - to pay-TV providers.

"Since its launch in 2003, NFL Network has provided millions of fans unprecedented access to the sport they love," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "The Network's sale to ESPN will build on this remarkable legacy, providing more NFL football for more fans in new and innovative ways."

NFL team owners must still approve the deal, but the vote is expected to be a formality, given the expanded distribution and visibility it offers for league programming.

As part of the agreement, ESPN will revise its NFL broadcast schedule, taking on a larger share of games. While NFL Network will continue airing seven games per season, ESPN’s slate will grow to 28 matchups.

The NFL will retain control of other media properties, including NFL Films and NFL.com.

The partnership also establishes the official season-long NFL fantasy game, combining ESPN and NFL Fantasy into a single platform designed to enhance the digital experience and expand global reach.