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3d ago

ESPN to Acquire NFL Network and RedZone in Equity-for-Assets Deal

Unveiled during Disney’s August 6 earnings call, it triggers a year-long regulatory review before assets transfer ahead of ESPN’s streaming launch.

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Jul 31, 2025; Canton, Ohio, USA; General view of the NFL shield logo on the field at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium site of the Professional Football Hall of Fame game and Class of 2025 induction ceremonies. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • ESPN has agreed to acquire the NFL Network, RedZone, seven regular-season games and the league’s fantasy football operations in exchange for up to a 10 percent equity stake in the network.
  • Disney is poised to announce the transaction next week as ESPN prepares to roll out a $29.99 monthly direct-to-consumer streaming service.
  • The NFL’s equity position, valued in the billions, aligns the league’s financial interests with ESPN and concludes four years of intermittent negotiations.
  • Federal regulators must approve the deal over nine to 12 months, making full integration unlikely before the 2026 NFL season.
  • The agreement bolsters ESPN’s live sports lineup at a time of waning cable subscriptions and underscores the importance of marquee sporting content for streaming growth.