Disney subsidiary, ESPN, will acquire NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and NFL Fantasy, according to Benzinga. In exchange, the NFL will receive a 10% stake in ESPN as part of a transformative equity-for-assets deal. Disney plans to integrate these properties into its new direct-to-consumer platform, merging ESPN and NFL fantasy platforms, while ESPN gains rights to three additional NFL games per year. Four ESPN games will shift to the NFL Network to maintain its seven-game lineup. Executives from Disney, ESPN, and the NFL praised the partnership as a step toward expanding digital offerings and fan engagement. The deal aligns with Disney’s strategy to accelerate streaming growth and digital transformation. The deal is pending final approval from NFL team owners.
