ESPN Takes Control Of The NFL Network & NFL Redzone
Last summer, Disney announced it had done a deal with the NFL that would see ESPN acquire the NFL Network and certain other media assets owned and controlled by the NFL – including the NFL’s linear RedZone Channel, and NFL Fantasy – in exchange for a 10% equity stake in ESPN.
As of April 1st 2026, the deal has now been completed, and ESPN has control of the NFL Network and NFL Redzone.
Disney hasn’t announced any changes to how the NFL Network will be affected, but it’s likely we are going to see this incorporated into ESPN Unlimited soon. In the coming months, ESPN will be evaluating its new employees as their current contracts expire.
The day prior to the deal finalising, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell shared a memo to the NFL Network employees, stating:
“So tomorrow begins a new chapter for NFL Media, NFL Network and many of you. To those remaining with NFL Media to evolve our key fan-facing platforms — from our website, apps and content productions across YouTube, FAST and podcasts, to NFL RedZone — please know how much we appreciate you. You will lead NFL Media into this next chapter. To those heading to ESPN, we offer a heartfelt thank you. We have no doubt that you will continue to drive unparalleled coverage of the NFL. And whether you are transitioning or staying, each of you will keep contributing to our greater football story, building on the relationships, sacrifice and teamwork that made this moment possible.”
Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN, sent out a memo to all of the ESPN staff sharing his thoughts on the inclusion of the NFL Network into the company:
Today, we officially welcome our NFL Network colleagues to ESPN, and we couldn’t be more excited about what this historic moment represents for our company and our future. For sports fans, it means stronger, more connected coverage — bringing together storytelling, insight and innovation to deliver enhanced football experiences across platforms and throughout the year.
We have always been at our best when talented people come together around a shared purpose. We are driven by a responsibility to serve sports fans anytime, anywhere — and that mission only becomes stronger as we bring in new voices, perspectives and expertise. The addition of our NFL Network colleagues reinforces our commitment to collaboration, creative excellence and being the very best at what we do.
ESPN’s success is built on teamwork, trust and an inclusive culture. We value thoughtful discussion, healthy debate and learning from each other. As new teammates join us, we ask everyone to lead with curiosity, openness and a collaborative spirit.
This moment also comes at an important time for ESPN. From strategic rights deals and record performance across linear, digital and social platforms, to our continued focus on innovation, quality storytelling and audience expansion — and the launch of our Direct-to-Consumer service and enhanced app — we are building for the future.
The future is bright — and we’re just getting started.
Rogers’ Take: With any major merger or acquisition, we probably won’t see any major changes straight away, as Disney will need to take stock and finalise its plans for the future. Without a doubt, this deal will bring more NFL coverage into ESPN Unlimited and thus into Disney+, but expect to see both linear channels continue to be available as they currently operate. Internationally, things are a little trickier, as there are already existing agreements in place, such as with DAZN, so it might be years until we see any major changes.
Are you looking forward to seeing more NFL content on ESPN? Let me know on social media!
