NFL in talks to buy 10% ESPN stake: Here's what to know

Potential Deal & Implications - The NFL is in advanced talks to buy a 10% minority stake in ESPN, a moving target that could change [2] - In return, ESPN could take control of NFL Network and NFL Red Zone [1][2] - The deal could involve a combination of equity and cash, as ESPN needs cash for sports rights acquisitions [3] - If the NFL owns a stake in ESPN, ESPN may have more comfort in future sports rights bidding [5][6] - Other media companies could be superficial losers due to the potential impact on future bidding dynamics [14] NFL's Perspective - The NFL has been seeking a buyer for its NFL media assets for years [8] - The NFL did not want to run these NFL media assets anymore [8] - The NFL has an opt-out clause in its media rights deal after the 2029 season [9] - The NFL would likely sell out the 10% stake in ESPN if there was one bid for all the games [16] Media Landscape - NBC is reportedly building a sports channel to simulcast games already on Peacock [18][20] - This new channel aims to retain cable bundle subscribers and offer access to games without requiring a Peacock subscription [20][21]