ESPN announces NFL Network deal, reveals details on future of RedZone

ESPN has officially announced a deal to acquire NFL Media – including NFL Network and RedZone. The NFL would also receive a 10% stake in ESPN.

In the announcement, ESPN provided more details on the future of RedZone, which came into question when the deal was initially reported last week. ESPN would own the broad rights to the “RedZone” brand, meaning there could be more versions of it in the future. The NFL would own, operate and produce NFL RedZone and retain the rights to distribute it digitally.

Scott Hanson will also be back as host of NFL RedZone after recently agreeing to a new deal with the NFL. He confirmed after the news broke that he’s not going anywhere.

“It’s official. (& for those wondering: yes, I will still be hosting RedZone.),” Hanson wrote on X. “Fired up for a great season! Optimistic about this new partnership! (& I get to call @AdamSchefter “colleague” for the 2nd time in my career… nice bonus!)”

There are worries about the agreement, though. It still has to receive government approval. In fact, Front Office Sports’ Michael McCarthy reported “growing concern” President Donald Trump could try to delay or block it, given the magnitude of the deal.

More on the ESPN-NFL deal

As part of the landmark deal, ESPN would now own and operate NFL Network and fully integrate into its direct-to-consumer app, which is due to launch this fall. Additionally, NFL.com fantasy football is set to merge with ESPN Fantasy. In addition to NFL RedZone, the NFL will also own and operate NFL Films, NFL+ and NFL.com, among other properties.

ESPN will also license three NFL games per season on NFL Network as part of the deal. ESPN will also adjust its overall NFL schedule, shifting four games to NFL Network, which will still air seven games each year.

“Since its launch in 2003, NFL Network has provided millions of fans unprecedented access to the sport they love,” said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement. “Whether it was debuting Thursday Night Football, televising the Combine, or telling incredible football stories through original shows and breaking news, NFL Network has delivered. The Network’s sale to ESPN will build on this remarkable legacy, providing more NFL football for more fans in new and innovative ways.”

ESPN is preparing to launch its direct-to-consumer service, which will cost $29.99 per month and formally debut in the next few weeks. NFL RedZone will likely be a key selling point if the deal goes through. Additionally, ESPN also brought Rich Eisen back to its airwaves starting Sept. 2, and his eponymous show will air on ESPN’s DTC service.