ESPN and NFL (National Football League) announced on Tuesday (5) an agreement in which ESPN will acquire NFL Network, NFL Redzone linear channel and NFL Fantasy in exchange for a 10% shareholder in ESPN.
The agreement, pending final approval by NFL owners and other conditions, will bring major NFL media properties to Disney’s property network and expand ESPN football offers on traditional and streaming platforms.
“Since its launch in 2003, NFL Network has provided millions of fans access unprecedented to the sport they love,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement.
“Be debuting Thursday Night Football, conveying combine or telling amazing football stories through original programs and last -minute news, NFL Network has fulfilled its role. The sale of the network to ESPN will strengthen this remarkable legacy, offering more NFL football for more new and innovative ways.”
Under the agreement, NFL Network and Redzone will be integrated into the future streaming service directly to ESPN consumer, remaining available via cable and satellite. The NFL Fantasy would merge with ESPN Fantasy, creating the official league’s fantasy platform last season.
As part of a second agreement between the parties, ESPN will also win rights to license three additional NFL games for a season, while four games will be transferred from ESPN to NFL Network.
“This is an exciting day for sports fans,” ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro said in a statement. “By combining these NFL media assets with ESPN’s reach and innovation, we are creating a privileged destination for football fans. Together, ESPN and NFL are redefining the way fans interact with the game.”
NFL will maintain possession of important properties, including NFL FILMS, NFL +, NFL.com and NFL Podcast Network, and will continue to produce and distribute the digital version of the Redzone independently.
