ESPN-Disney-NFL Network Merger Leads to Talent Changes
The recent merger between ESPN, Disney, and NFL Network has prompted some shifts in on-air personnel at ESPN.
ESPN is set to revamp its broadcast booth for the second NFL team, which currently includes Chris Fowler, Dan Orlovsky, and Louis Riddick Jr., according to a report from The Athletic.
With the merger, ESPN will no longer air doubleheaders for “Monday Night Football.” This change might impact Fowler, Orlovsky, and Riddick’s availability due to their commitments in college football. The NFL has the rights to seven additional games, which could also be played internationally, outside of the usual 17-game schedule.
Fowler, who serves as ESPN’s top college play-by-play announcer, will continue alongside Orlovsky and Riddick as they call college games and contribute to studio segments.
Interestingly, Jason Kelsey, who signed a multi-year deal with ESPN in May 2024, is being considered as a potential analyst. He currently appears on “Monday Night Countdown” and other ESPN programs.
Kurt Warner from NFL Network is also under consideration for the new broadcast booth.
As for play-by-play roles, ESPN is weighing Dave Pash and Mike Monaco, with Bob Wishusen also in the mix.
ESPN opted not to comment on this situation when approached by The Athletic.
Meanwhile, Joe Buck and Troy Aikman, ESPN’s top NFL broadcasting duo, are concluding their five-year contract this season, a deal worth about $165 million. They are slated to call the first Super Bowl for ESPN in February 2027.
Additionally, ESPN has expressed interest in retaining Ian Rapoport, an insider for the NFL Network, whose contract is nearing its end.
Rich Eisen will remain the host for NFL Network’s draft coverage in April.
This merger officially took place Wednesday, resulting in ESPN/Disney taking on various talent contracts from NFL Network.
As part of a $3 billion agreement, ESPN also acquired assets like the RedZone Channel and NFL Fantasy Football, with the deal finalized in January 2026. Notably, the NFL gained a 10% stake in ESPN through this arrangement.
