
ESPN is deepening its relationship with the NFL, gaining access to more games and fan-favorite content, including NFL RedZone, in a landmark deal that also includes equity in the network.
According to reports from The Athletic, ESPN and the NFL have reached a wide-ranging agreement that gives ESPN rights to seven more regular-season games, full access to NFL RedZone, NFL Network content, and features tied to fantasy football.
In return, the NFL could get as much as a 10% ownership stake in ESPN.
While both ESPN and the NFL have declined to publicly comment, the timing of this deal closely aligns with Disney's upcoming launch of ESPN's standalone streaming service, expected to arrive this fall.
The new streaming bundle, which includes ESPN, Disney+, and Hulu, will cost $29.99 a month, FoxBusiness said.
"We are providing everything ESPN has to offer directly to fans and all in one place," said ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro during the announcement of the new service earlier this year. "Our straightforward approach to name and pricing will help fans cut through the clutter."
BREAKING - ESPN and NFL have agreed to a blockbuster billion dollar deal that will result in top media properties, like RedZone, moving to the network, per @TheAthletic pic.twitter.com/gKCzY4e5aC
— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) August 1, 2025
RedZone Joins ESPN's Streaming Service, Exciting Football Fans
The upcoming ESPN streaming app is designed to be a go-to hub for sports fans, featuring live games, highlights, and content tailored to your interests.
RedZone, known for showing every touchdown and big play from every Sunday afternoon NFL game, is a major addition that could boost subscriptions.
"Onward!" wrote longtime RedZone host Scott Hanson on X (formerly Twitter), signaling enthusiasm for the move.
According to Reuters, the deal reportedly includes the option for ESPN to add new features like betting integration and other digital tools as part of the fan experience.
This move follows four years of back-and-forth talks between the NFL and Disney, which owns ESPN.
This partnership may also help ESPN draw in viewers who have moved away from traditional cable.
By bringing NFL games, RedZone, and fantasy content together in one place, ESPN is aiming to become a must-have destination for football fans.
The financial terms of the deal haven't been made public, but analysts expect it could be worth billions. More official details are expected during Disney's earnings call on Wednesday.
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