As had been originally reported two years ago, but largely overlooked since, the NFL is still in talks to buy a stake in ESPN as part of the sides’ larger deal for control of NFL Media.
The NFL is in talks to buy a ten percent stake in ESPN, with that figure representing a “moving target,” CNBC reporter Alex Sherman said on the network Thursday. The arrangement is part of broader discussions between the NFL and ESPN about the network potentially taking control of NFL Media, which could include NFL RedZone and NFL Network.
The potential of the NFL buying a stake in ESPN had been reported as far back as the start of last year, originating out of Disney CEO Bob Iger’s pursuit of a “strategic partner” to invest in the network and assist with its content and/or distribution. Disney was said to be interested in partnerships with a variety of companies, from the leagues to digital giants like Apple and Google.
The original plan was for ESPN to partner with multiple companies in multiple sectors. It is unclear whether ESPN is still pursuing any other similar arrangements outside of the NFL.
ESPN’s relationship with the NFL has long been complicated. The network has always had at least somewhat of a commitment to journalism, which has at times aggravated its most important partner. The NFL has over the years taken issue with the ESPN fictional drama “Playmakers,” the network’s partnership with PBS on “League of Denial,” and its reporting on owners and executives. While other NFL partners have covered the league critically, that has usually been through their wholly separate news divisions, rather than on their sports networks.
It is hard to imagine that ESPN’s nods toward journalism — which have already been waning — will not be affected by its most important business partner becoming a part owner.
