Roger Goodell issued a memo to NFL Network employees before Wednesday's official move to ESPN.
ESPN acquired NFL Media assets, including the NFL Network and RedZone channel, in a deal that gives the league a 10 percent equity stake in ESPN. Government regulators approved the multi-billion-dollar deal two months ago, giving ESPN time to integrate NFL Media properties before the 2026 season.
Sports Business Journal's Austin Karp obtained a message Goodell sent to the NFL Network staff before the transition.
"In 2003, we had an idea," Goodell wrote. "Many skeptics doubted there was demand for a network featuring round-the-clock, yearlong NFL news, information, and analysis. But we knew our fans. We knew if we built it, they would come. The team at NFL Network has accomplished something remarkable over the past two decades… It is no surprise that the fruits of your labor would be attractive to an industry leader like ESPN as they look to serve the insatiable appetites of NFL fans."
Goodell's message to NFL Network employees
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Goodell thanked NFL Network employees for their work and encouraged those making the move to ESPN.
"Tomorrow begins a new chapter for NFL Media, NFL Network and many of you," Goodell said. "To those remaining with NFL Media to evolve our key fan-facing platforms — from our website, apps and content productions across YouTube, FAST and podcasts, to NFL RedZone — please know how much we appreciate you. You will lead NFL Media into this next chapter.
"To those heading to ESPN, we offer a heartfelt thank you. We have no doubt that you will continue to drive unparalleled coverage of the NFL. And whether you are transitioning or staying, each of you will keep contributing to our greater football story, building on the relationships, sacrifice and teamwork that made this moment possible."
According to Karp, some prominent NFL Network personalities have signed deals to stay with the ESPN-owned properties.
