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NFL to acquire stake in ESPN

The NFL is set to own up to 10 percent of ESPN as part of a new media deal.

July 24, 2025 at 05:56 PM

Report: NFL will acquire up to 10 percent of ESPN as part of NFL Media deal

The NFL's partnership with ESPN signals major changes in sports broadcasting rights.

NFL secures stake in ESPN amid major media deal

The NFL and ESPN are nearing a deal that would give the NFL a stake in ESPN, significantly altering the landscape of sports media. According to CNBC's Alex Sherman, the NFL will acquire up to 10 percent of ESPN as part of an agreement. Currently, ESPN is majorly owned by Disney, holding an 80 percent stake, while Hearst controls the remaining 20 percent. As a result of this deal, ESPN would gain full ownership of NFL Network and NFL RedZone, although it would only partially control other NFL Media properties like NFL Films and the NFL app. This arrangement raises questions about how the NFL will balance ownership interests with the journalistic integrity of ESPN, particularly regarding coverage of sensitive NFL issues.

Key Takeaways

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The NFL will own 10 percent of ESPN as part of a media deal.

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ESPN will fully control NFL Network and NFL RedZone post-deal.

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Conflicts may arise regarding journalistic integrity and league coverage.

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Disney currently holds an 80 percent stake in ESPN, complicating ownership dynamics.

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The deal signals a shift in sports broadcasting rights and control.

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The NFL's influence over ESPN could reshape sports journalism.

"Why would the NFL freeze out ABC and ESPN if the NFL will be owning 10 percent of ESPN?"

This question highlights potential conflicts of interest in the new deal.

"It will be interesting to see what happens when interests of journalism require the pursuit of topics the NFL might want to keep hidden."

This quote emphasizes the challenges journalists may face under the new ownership structure.

This move is a bold step in the evolving relationship between sports leagues and media platforms. By acquiring a stake in ESPN, the NFL directly influences what content is produced and how stories are framed. This could create a conflict of interest, where journalistic standards may clash with the league's desire to manage its public image. Observers are left wondering how ESPN will navigate this delicate balance and whether it can maintain its credibility while being partially owned by the league it covers.