NFL Owners Approve Sale of NFL Network to Disney

During the NFL's fall league meetings in New York this week, the league's 32 team owners unanimously approved a landmark agreement between the National Football League (NFL) and The Walt Disney Company. 

This deal, first announced as a non-binding agreement on August 5, 2025, involves Disney's ESPN acquiring NFL Network and several other key NFL media assets in exchange for a 10% equity stake in ESPN, valued at over $2 billion based on recent network valuations. The transaction, which still requires final negotiations, regulatory approvals (including a potential antitrust review), and customary closing conditions, marks a strategic pivot for both parties amid the shifting landscape of sports media consumption.

This move solidifies ESPN's position as the NFL's premier media partner while giving the league a direct financial interest in one of the world's largest sports broadcasters. ESPN, currently 80% owned by Disney's ABC Inc. and 20% by Hearst Corp., will integrate these assets to enhance its direct-to-consumer streaming offerings, launching fully this fall.

The deal encompasses more than just NFL Network—it's a multifaceted exchange designed to streamline content distribution and boost fan engagement.

For Disney/ESPN: This is a "big win" for ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro, who assumed leadership in 2018 with a focus on strengthening NFL ties. It bolsters ESPN's content library ahead of its standalone streaming service, allowing seamless integration of NFL Network into bundles like Hulu + Live TV and the new ESPN app. Disney CEO Bob Iger hailed it as a way to "deliver an even more compelling experience for NFL fans." However, it ends the short-lived "Monday Night Football" doubleheaders (simulcasts on ABC and ESPN), with some ESPN games shifting to the now-ESPN-owned NFL Network.

For the NFL: Commissioner Roger Goodell described NFL Network's legacy as "remarkable," noting its innovations like debuting Thursday Night Football and covering the NFL Combine. The equity stake provides long-term upside in ESPN's success, especially as media rights renew (next major cycle post-2033). It also frees the league from operating a declining cable asset amid cord-cutting, while retaining lucrative digital and production arms. NFL exec Hans Schroeder emphasized: "This is an opportunity for football fans to get more football in more places."

For Fans and Viewers: Expect more integrated NFL content across Disney platforms—e.g., RedZone in traditional TV bundles and fantasy tools in streaming apps. NFL Network will remain available via pay-TV (now under ESPN's distribution deals), but its future packaging with ESPN's DTC service could lower barriers for cord-cutters. The deal aligns with the NFL's $111 billion, 11-year media rights explosion, prioritizing streaming over linear TV.