We all know what’s coming with ESPN-NFL Network merger

For NFL fans, two leading sources for televised daily league coverage are ESPN and NFL Network. Your options will change dramatically with ESPN’s acquisition of NFL Network.

Media consolidation is seldom good for workers or audiences. We all can see the likely result: skilled people losing jobs and fewer opinions being heard.

Currently, according to Front Office Sports, Disney and ESPN are not planning any immediate layoffs. Some other interesting details have emerged. On April 1, NFL Network employees will become ESPN employees. What happens next seems a bit more concerning for the long term. Michael McCarthy of FOS reports that ESPN will decide on the futures of new staff when their current contracts end. McCarthy also added this somber observation from sources that some NFL Network talents are in “panic mode” and that “even some of the most senior people are worried.” Another source told McCarthy that morale is “plummeting” at NFL Media.

If you’ve ever worked in corporate America, you understand how this story typically unfolds. ESPN and NFL Network produce similar content and employ people in comparable roles, which will likely lead to layoffs. Some affected individuals will be well-known, while others will be behind-the-scenes staff. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport recently announced that his contract ends in May. If he becomes a casualty of this merger, Rapoport is probably going to find a new prominent opportunity. Others may not be as fortunate. There is a uniquely demoralizing feeling in losing your job through no fault of your own. 

The initial uncertainty is difficult. Being let go is worse. Having to seriously consider options outside your field of expertise is the final insult.

So, why should you care as a viewer?

Contracts are not renewed, positions are eliminated, and layoffs occur. These days, remaining a full-time worker is extremely difficult. A report released by the Labor Department on Friday shows that employers cut 92,000 jobs in February, even though economists expected the U.S. to add jobs. 

The NFL is America’s favorite sport. We’re obsessed with football and consume as much content as possible. For years, ESPN and NFL Network have provided options for people to get their information. The Worldwide Leader in Sports offers a more news-focused perspective and strives to meet journalistic standards. NFL Network, owned and operated by the league, delivers information from the league’s point of view.

These distinctions influence the news you get. Discerning viewers will see the subtle differences, while others might miss them. Still, having options for where you get your information remains important. Before, ESPN was just a broadcasting partner with the NFL. The league could suggest viewpoints or apply some pressure, but ESPN ultimately decided the coverage’s direction. Now, with the merger, these powerful companies are connected. Moving forward, it will be harder to tell what is an ESPN decision from what is an NFL decision.

If that doesn’t persuade you, consider this from a business standpoint. More competition benefits consumers by encouraging innovation, diversity of opinions, and a richer experience. With ESPN and NFL Network now part of the same family, they might not have the same motivation to win your loyalty. Are there other outlets you can explore? Sure, podcasts, websites, and other sources are available. However, none match the financial backing and access of ESPN and NFL Network.

Perhaps PFF’s Mike Florio summarized it well: “I don’t know that the consumer was at the front of the mind for either of the parties.” He pointed out that NFL Network has never become what the league envisioned. Now, it is ESPN’s problem. It’s unfortunate that this will likely come at a high cost to its workforce.

Welcome to corporate America.