Latest Hint from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Could Change College Football Saturdays

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dean Koutouratsas | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 4:38 PM ET

After signing a landmark deal with ESPN, which gives it the rights to the NFL Network, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell hinted at expanding NFL RedZone to create a college football version.

The deal gives the NFL a 10% equity stake in ESPN, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company.

“Today’s announcement paves the way for the world’s leading sports media brand and America’s most popular sport to deliver an even more compelling experience for NFL fans, in a way that only ESPN and Disney can,” said Robert A. Iger, chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company.

'ESPN purchased the RedZone name and will be able to use that for other sports'

Goodell said during Wednesday’s episode of “SportsCenter” that NFL RedZone will not necessarily change because of the new deal, but will allow ESPN to expand the concept to other sports.

“I don’t think fans will see any difference in that,” he added. “Obviously, in the context of that, ESPN purchased the RedZone name and will be able to utilize that for other sports. College football and other things. I think it is exciting for fans to see RedZone in college football and other sports.”

NFL RedZone Enhanced Fan Engagement

According to a survey conducted by Opinium in September 2023, NFL RedZone helped the league improve fan engagement. More than three in five (62%) fans claimed that watching NFL RedZone led them to spend more time watching football.

This can be due to the endless live coverage that comes with NFL RedZone. The broadcast also showcases every touchdown scored and provides fantasy football comparisons with Scott Hanson hosting.

Opinium’s survey also found that 45% of Americans attended NFL games, and 56% played fantasy football for the entire season after watching NFL RedZone. This can be good news for the NCAA if it plans to expand college football’s viewership and outreach.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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