The National Football League and ESPN are on the cusp of finalizing a monumental agreement that would see a significant portion of the league’s media assets transition to the sports broadcasting giant. This highly anticipated announcement, expected early next week, signals a pivotal shift in sports media distribution and ownership.

Sources close to the negotiations, who preferred to remain anonymous given the deal’s unfinalized status, indicated that the multi-billion-dollar transaction includes a substantial equity stake for the NFL within ESPN. This arrangement culminates nearly five years of persistent efforts by the NFL to divest its various media properties, alongside three years of intermittent discussions with ESPN.

This strategic move by the NFL coincides with ESPN’s imminent launch of its direct-to-consumer streaming service, projected to debut before the end of August. Priced at $29.99 monthly, this service aims to cater to cord-cutters, offering comprehensive access to ESPN’s entire programming lineup and network channels, while most existing cable and satellite subscribers will receive it without additional cost.

Under the terms of the new agreement, ESPN would gain exclusive rights to highly coveted NFL properties, including the popular RedZone channel, the entire NFL Network, and an additional seven regular-season games, comprising six international matchups and a late-season Saturday afternoon contest. Furthermore, ESPN, a longtime NFL broadcaster since 1987 and “Monday Night Football” since 2006, is set to host the Super Bowls in 2027 and 2031 for the very first time.

The acquisition of NFL Network, which commenced operations in November 2003, highlights the trend of major professional sports leagues establishing their own dedicated channels. This followed the NBA TV launch in 1999, preceding MLB Network in 2009 and NHL Network’s US debut in 2007, underscoring a broader media strategy among prominent sports organizations.

In other significant league news, star edge rusher Micah Parsons has reportedly requested a trade from the Dallas Cowboys. Parsons, who attended training camp in California with the team, expressed his desire to leave via a message on social media platform X, citing the club’s alleged refusal to engage in contract negotiations for a new deal, and confirming he communicated this to executive vice president Stephen Jones.

Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders’ aspirations to return to the former RFK Stadium site have advanced following approval of key legislation by the District of Columbia Council. This legislative step, while requiring a second approval before reaching Mayor Muriel Bowser, marks a crucial progression in the team’s efforts to secure a new home venue.

On the injury front, the Milwaukee Brewers have placed outfielder Jackson Chourio on the 10-day injured list. Initial evaluations of his strained right hamstring, sustained during a fifth-inning triple on Tuesday, revealed more extensive issues than initially anticipated, prompting the move.