ESPN are in talks over a $2billion deal with the NFL which would see a major change to live TV rights.
The broadcaster has been locked in negotiations with NFL chiefs over a deal to buy NFL Media, reports claim.
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ESPN currently airs its own broadcasts alongside fellow channel ABC.
While NFL Media presides over all aspects of the game, including a draft show and other spin-off series like Good Morning Football.
But it’s reckoned that ESPN are now closing in on a $2bn deal to take over NFL Media.
And that would shake up the current broadcasting system.
Reports claim the deal would see ESPN take charge of all NFL Media assets.
And that would include two top prizes in NFL RedZone and EIGHT NFL Network game broadcasts.
The potential agreement is being billed as a game changer for ESPN, who have already been making waves in Major League Baseball.
The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand explained: “When we look back in 10, 15 years if this deal goes down, this could be a very significant point for ESPN’s growth when you’re adding it all up, and we’re really in a full streaming world.
“I think it’s pretty significant whether it happens in the next few months or not.”
He added: “When you look at Netflix and Amazon, they don’t necessarily need the NFL.
“Those businesses are not based off the NFL.
“So, if you’re ESPN, you get that relationship even deeper for the long-term with the NFL.
“I think it makes some sense, and it could be a game changer.”
