ABC is discussing taking a run at getting back into the NFL football business, targeting CBS and/or FOX’s Sunday NFL Package.
According to the New York Post’s Andrew Marchand, “ABC is kicking around the idea of going hard after CBS’ or Fox’s NFL Sunday packages. Besides the games on Sundays, it also would allow ABC to pick up a Super Bowl or two.”
The report goes on to point out that the NFL’s current agreements with both Fox and CBS for Sunday’s daytime games last through the 2022 season, adding that FOX’s deal for Thursday Night Football, and NBC’s Sunday Night Football expire around the same time.
“This is somewhat speculation at this point, informed by sources familiar with Disney’s discussions. ESPN and ABC—both owned by Disney—declined comment.”
ABC broadcasted Monday Night Football from 1970 to 2005, and, along with ESPN, will simulcast the NFL Pro Bowl this year.
But, the big money makes is an NFL television package, and it is a lucrative venture, particularly for the league.
Fox reportedly paid $3 billion for five years to broadcast Thursday Night Football, and they are currently paying $1.1 billion annually for the Sunday NFL package rights, according to the Los Angeles Times.
ABC was a staple of NFL football action for decades, so seeing them try to jump back in the game would be welcomed, as they have built an esteemed history of NFL broadcasting during their reign as the home for Monday Night Football for over 3 decades.
While popular platforms such as Twitch streams have been offering other forms of broadcasting, and with Twitch now airing Impact Wrestling content, it seems to be a matter of time before we see NFL content, in some form or fashion, streaming on one of those platforms, if not both.
For now, ABC is deciding whether the NFL is in their immediate future, and if they should start laying the foundation to officially get back in the game.