ESPN and the NFL have signed new multi-year agreements significantly expanding the network's rights to the NFL Draft and broadening access to NFL content across Disney platforms. This includes a forthcoming direct-to-consumer service.
The agreement keeps ESPN's long-standing NFL Draft coverage while adding innovative distribution methods. Starting with the 2026 NFL Draft, ESPN and ABC's broadcasts, alongside ESPN Deportes' Spanish-language coverage, will be available on Disney+ and Hulu. The draft will also be accessible through ESPN's new streaming platform.
New additions include alternate telecasts and a daily draft-focused show airing on ESPN2 after the Super Bowl and continuing through the draft. ABC and ESPN maintain their familiar split coverage—both networks broadcast rounds one through three, with ESPN handling rounds four through seven (ABC simulcasts). Additional alternate streams may appear on digital platforms. "College GameDay" and "NFL Live" will stay on-site for coverage, and ESPN Radio continues live broadcasts.
Separately, the NFL and ESPN agreed to expand NFL content on ESPN's direct-to-consumer service and Disney+. ESPN's new platform will stream select out-of-market preseason games in 2025 and 2026. The deal also lets ESPN bundle NFL+ Premium (an NFL subscription service with NFL Network and NFL RedZone) with its streaming product.
The ESPN App will gain multiview, enhanced stats, fantasy football integration, and betting information. Subscribers get on-demand access to "Monday Night Football" content. Disney+ will receive more NFL content, including potential simulcasts and more highlight rights for shows like "Vibe Check" and "SportsCenter+." All ESPN content unifies under a single service starting August 21, accessible via mobile and connected TV devices for both direct subscribers and pay TV users.