NFL in Advanced Talks to Acquire Equity Stake in ESPN

Potential Deal Could See ESPN Take Control of NFL Media, Boosting ESPN's Transition to Direct-to-Consumer Model

ESPN and the NFL are reportedly in advanced talks for a deal that could result in the NFL acquiring an equity stake in ESPN. In return, ESPN would take control of NFL Media, which includes NFL Network, NFL.com, Red Zone, NFL Films, and NFL+.
The NFL has been trying to monetize NFL Media for some time now, and this deal could provide a solution. ESPN, facing declines in cable distribution revenue, has been seeking partners and sees value in aligning with the NFL.
The deal is not guaranteed and would need approval from NFL owners. It could have significant implications for sports entities, potentially adding NFL Network to ESPN's array of sports content and possibly moving NFL RedZone to ESPN+.
ESPN is planning to go direct-to-consumer by 2025, offering all its programming without a cable subscription. This deal could enhance its position as it makes this transition.
Details of the deal have not been publicly shared, but the NFL has notified both owners and the Players Association. Both parties would need to be involved in the equity agreement due to revenue sharing stipulations in the NFL's collective bargaining agreement.