NFL seeking 100 percent increase in TV rights: report

The NFL is reportedly seeking a 100 percent increase in TV rights payments from network partners who air the football league’s games.

CNBC reported Friday that the NFL is discussing the increase with partners NBC, CBS, FOX and Disney, though Disney is reportedly pushing back.

Networks each pay around $1 billion to air NFL games, while Disney pays $1.9 billion annually for “Monday Night Football.” If the deal goes through, the networks would have to pay double the current price.

Two sources told CNBC that Disney has already declined the initial deal, but both sides are still negotiating. The other networks have not accepted the deal, but are reportedly more open to it. 

The Hill has reached out to the NFL, CBS, FOX and Disney for comment. NBC said it had no comment.

The NFL is watched by millions of people across the country every week during the season. The league is also looking to add another week of regular-season games for next year.

The NFL is justifying upping the charge for Disney even though Disney pays more than the other networks because Disney gets more rights than the other networks with its current deal. They get rights to highlights, branding for shows and for streaming, CNBC noted.

The NFL recently capped off its latest season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers winning the Super Bowl following an unprecedented season for the league marked by limited fan attendance due to the coronavirus pandemic.