CBS Sports’ partnership with the NFL went so well, that industry insiders say the broadcast giant is interested in purchasing a piece of the NFL Network.
According to The Big Lead, CBS Sports is currently engaged in high-level talks regarding the purchase of a large chunk of the NFL Network.
CBS and the NFL Network partnered a year ago to televise Thursday Night Football, but insiders are now saying that deal was something of a “trial run” to see about a larger partnership, which appears to be on the horizon.
CBS declined comment.
Three sources say that CBS Sports could potentially acquire 40% or more of the NFL Network, and both sides see it as a win-win for all parties involved. It’s unclear if there’s a timetable yet for the deal to be completed. One source said before next season begins; another said if a deal is reached, the partners would wait to make a “splashy announcement” ahead of next year’s Super Bowl.
According to the report, the power wielding Robert Kraft is at the helm of this idea.
When asked why NBC or Fox wouldn’t have a crack at buying some or all of NFL Network – ostensibly to help NBC Sports Network or Fox Sports 1 – a source said: “The partnership with CBS went well, and nobody at either of those networks is as close with Bob Kraft – the most powerful owner in the NFL – as Les Moonves at CBS.”