ESPN Looks to Retain NFL Insider Ian Rapoport Amid Adam Schefter Transition

The Worldwide Leader plans to keep both top NFL insiders under the same umbrella after acquiring NFL Network.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:54pm

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of color and shape, representing the dynamic world of NFL reporting and the transition happening within the industry.ESPN's acquisition of NFL Network sets the stage for a new era of NFL news and analysis, with veteran insiders and rising stars poised to shape the future of sports journalism.NYC Today

ESPN is prioritizing signing NFL Network's lead insider Ian Rapoport as his contract expires at the end of this month. The move is seen as a potential succession plan for veteran ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, who is nearing the end of his career. ESPN is also interested in retaining NFL Network's draft expert Daniel Jeremiah and RedZone host Scott Hanson as part of the $3 billion acquisition of NFL Network.

Why it matters

Bringing Rapoport and Jeremiah under the ESPN banner would solidify the network's position as the premier destination for NFL news and analysis, especially as Schefter approaches retirement. Maintaining the separate NFL Network brand and talent also allows ESPN to continue operating the two networks in parallel.

The details

ESPN secured a $3 billion deal to purchase NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and NFL Fantasy Football in January 2026. As part of the acquisition, the NFL received a 10% equity stake in ESPN. The early plan is for Rapoport and Jeremiah to remain in their current roles at NFL Network, while also contributing to ESPN's coverage. Schefter, who has been with ESPN since 2009, and draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. will continue to lead ESPN/ABC's NFL Draft coverage.

  • ESPN finalized the $3 billion acquisition of NFL Network in January 2026.
  • Rapoport's current NFL Network contract expires at the end of April 2026.

The players

Adam Schefter

A veteran NFL insider who has been with ESPN since 2009 and is nearing the end of his career.

Ian Rapoport

The lead NFL insider at NFL Network since 2013, whose contract is expiring and is a high priority signing for ESPN.

Daniel Jeremiah

NFL Network's lead draft expert, who ESPN is also interested in retaining as part of the acquisition.

Mel Kiper Jr.

ESPN's long-time NFL draft expert who will continue to lead the network's draft coverage.

Scott Hanson

The host of NFL Network's 'NFL RedZone' channel, who ESPN plans to retain.

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What’s next

ESPN is expected to finalize a contract extension with Ian Rapoport before his current NFL Network deal expires at the end of April 2026.

The takeaway

ESPN's acquisition of NFL Network solidifies the network's position as the premier destination for NFL news and analysis, allowing them to retain top talent like Ian Rapoport and Daniel Jeremiah while also planning for the eventual transition from veteran insider Adam Schefter.