Overview
- Comcast customers lost NFL Network and the linear RedZone channel after the carriage deal expired Friday, leaving both networks off Xfinity systems.
- Disney said it offered to keep the channels on during talks, but Comcast declined and pulled them after the contract lapsed.
- Comcast accused Disney/ESPN of seeking much higher carriage fees, saying the new owner wants roughly double the rates and broader placement, which Disney has not confirmed.
- Other ESPN channels on Xfinity remain available, and the NFL offseason limits immediate impact because RedZone has no off‑season programming and NFL Network airs mostly studio shows and reruns.
- ESPN took control of NFL Network in April after acquiring it earlier this year, and a similar 2023 Comcast blackout ended quickly after top executives stepped in, suggesting pressure will build as the season nears.