DOJ Expected to Review ESPN-NFL Media Deal Over Competition Concerns

The National Football League's recent agreement with Walt Disney, in which Disney’s ESPN acquires the NFL Network and other media assets in exchange for the NFL receiving a 10% equity stake in ESPN, is expected to face close scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Justice due to antitrust concerns. Legal experts warn the deal could increase Disney's dominance in sports broadcasting, potentially limiting consumer options and raising costs for fans accessing games via streaming or cable. The DOJ's review of the transaction could last up to a year, amid a broader regulatory focus on Disney's growing control of the sports media market, including a separate investigation into its attempt to acquire a controlling stake in Fubo TV. The rising cost and complexity of accessing sports content has drawn attention from lawmakers, with Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Senator Ted Cruz highlighting fans' frustrations over the escalating expenses and fragmented access. Industry voices express concern that the deal might further consolidate sports media, reducing competition and driving up prices at a time when viewers already feel burdened by streaming service costs. Both ESPN and the DOJ have not commented publicly on the review process, while the NFL has declined to respond.