The Big Lead

ESPN is looking to expand its NFL presence by acquiring major properties

The NFL's biggest media networks could be controlled by ESPN very soon.

By Matt Reed

Nov 25, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; From left: Scott Van Pelt, Ryan Clark, Jason Kelce and Marcus Spears on the ESPN Monday Night Football Countdown set at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Nov 25, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; From left: Scott Van Pelt, Ryan Clark, Jason Kelce and Marcus Spears on the ESPN Monday Night Football Countdown set at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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Another Super Bowl is in the books, but as we've learned on so many occasions the NFL always finds ways to dominate the offseason. Whether it's through free agency, the NFL Draft or simply releasing the next year's schedule, football has never been more popular in America.

That's why reports are circulating that ESPN is looking to take control of NFL Media, which operates NFL Network, NFL RedZone, NFL Films and NFL.com.

Speculation from those familiar with the discussions points towards ESPN moving its Los Angeles-based operations to NFL's media's massive building located next to SoFi Stadium, where the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers both play.

The NFL and ESPN had been discussing similar acquisition talks in 2024, however, nothing came to fruition. Now, it appears ESPN is seriously considering a takeover as they look to expand their NFL presence.

RELATED: Jalen Hurts defies the odds as the Eagles prepare to lose yet another OC

Disney, which owns ESPN, is back in the rotation of hosting the Super Bowl starting in the 2026 season when the NFL's championship game will be broadcast on ABC.

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