ESPN is cutting jobs following its integration of NFL Network operations, with the majority of the layoffs tied directly to the acquisition of NFL assets. Chairman Jimmy Pitaro disclosed the cuts in a memo to staff, saying the company had "carefully evaluated" its teams and structure after months of integrating the assets, but did not specify how many roles would be affected. The move matters because it marks a significant restructuring of ESPN's sports coverage following its expanded partnership with the NFL.

Among those departing are longtime ESPN commentator Karl Ravech, NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero and NFL analyst Ryan Clark, according to the Athletic. The layoffs stem from a February deal in which the NFL took a 10% stake in ESPN, worth an estimated $3 billion, folding NFL Network and NFL RedZone into ESPN's operations; the agreement also includes future buy-back options for both Disney and the NFL after July 2034. ESPN declined to comment on the cuts, though Pitaro said some non-acquisition-related roles elsewhere in the company were also affected.