ESPN Hit With Layoffs After Combining NFL Network Operations

ESPN Hit With Layoffs After Combining NFL Network Operations details ESPN’s latest round of layoffs tied to its takeover of NFL Network operations. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro told staff in a Tuesday memo, obtained by Variety, that the company has made “significant progress” integrating NFL assets acquired earlier. Pitaro said the reductions follow a careful evaluation of teams, resources and organizational structure, and that while most job impacts are linked to the acquisition, some affected positions span other parts of the company. Reported among those being let go are longtime ESPN commentator Karl Ravetch, NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero and NFL analyst Ryan Clark, according to The Athletic. ESPN declined to comment on specific cuts. The article also notes the NFL’s 10% stake in ESPN, the NFL deal valued at about $3 billion, and Disney’s potential rights to reacquire the NFL’s interest after July 2034, plus the NFL’s option to buy up to 4% additional equity at a defined valuation.