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ESPN will acquire the NFL network and other media assets, including the popular Redzone channel, from NFL.
On the other hand, the league will receive a 10% equity share in the sports network as part of a landmark agreement, announced the two pages on Tuesday.
The change in control triggered some fear among football fans about whether the agreement would lead to changes.
But one thing that doesn’t seem to change anytime soon is the Redzone host. Scott Hanson, who has anchored Redzone since 2009, went to social media to ease the concerns of his role in the 2025 season.
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The NFL Network host Scott Hanson presents on stage at the 2023 NFL draft at Union Station 29 April 2023 in Kansas City, Mo. (Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
Hanson confirmed he would resume his normal hosting tasks for the upcoming season. He also expressed optimism about the agreement between ESPN and NFL.
“It’s official. (& For those who are wondering: Yes, I will still host the Redzone.) Fired in a fantastic season! Optimistic with regard to this new partnership!” Hanson wrote on X.
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Hanson’s popularity in viewers has grown over the years and he has received praise for his memorable catch phrases. His contract with NFL Media reportedly expired at the end of last season. Hanson confirmed that he was negotiating a new deal that let him return to the 2025 season.
Host Scott Hanson speaks on stage in round four of 2022 NFL draft 30 April 2022 in Las Vegas. (David Becker/Getty Images)
According to the agreement, the NFL will continue to own, operate and produce Redzone channel programming from its studios in southern California. ESPN will handle the cable and satellite -distance -range, while the league will retain the rights to distribute it on digital platforms.
ESPN logo (Mike Windle/Getty Images to ESPN)
“By combining these NFL media assets with ESPN’s reach and innovation, we create a leading destination for football fans,” ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro said in a statement. “Together, ESPN and NFL are redefined how fans engage in the game-anywhere and anywhere. This deal helps fuel ESPN’s digital future and sets the basis for an even more robust offer as we prepare to launch our new direct-to-consumer service.”
NFL Network is expected to be added to ESPN’s upcoming streaming service directly to consumer. The service is scheduled to launch in the fall and will offer access to ESPN’s portfolio of professional and university sports.
