Roger Goodell suggests ‘RedZone’ could expand beyond NFL at ESPN

Could college football be getting the “RedZone” treatment after ESPN’s seismic acquisition of the NFL property?

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell opened the door as much Wednesday, hours after the league and ESPN formally announced a deal in which a number of NFL properties, including the beloved Scott Hanson program, would fall under the Worldwide Leader’s umbrella.

“Obviously, in the context of that, though, ESPN purchased the RedZone name and they will be able to utilize that for other sports, college football and other things, and I think that could be an exciting thing for our fans also to see a RedZone, maybe in college football or other sports. That’s something that they now own and have the ability to do that,” Goodell said during an appearance on “SportsCenter,” according to Pro Football Talk.

“NFL RedZone” has become a fan favorite on Sundays, when host Scott Hanson brings viewers into the center of the action as teams ready to cross the goal line.

In the wake of Tuesday’s formal reveal — in which the NFL will receive a 10 percent equity stake in ESPN in exchange for the media assets — Hanson confirmed on social media he is staying put as “RedZone” host.

“It’s official. (& for those wondering: yes, I will still be hosting RedZone.)” Hanson posted on X. “Fired up for a great season! Optimistic about this new partnership! (& I get to call @AdamSchefter “colleague” for the 2nd time in my career… nice bonus!)”

Hanson has hosted “RedZone” since its debut season in 2009.

A college football “RedZone” would certainly slot in nicely to a Saturday TV lineup given the abundance of games, not to mention the wild possibility of a “RedZone” eventually reaching other sports.

As part of the “non-binding agreement” announced Tuesday, ESPN “would own broad rights to the RedZone brand and distribute the NFL RedZone Channel to pay TV operators for continued inclusion into their sports packages,” according to NFL.com.

The announcement comes just as the 2025 NFL season is roughly a month away.

It could also attract the casual football fan who does not have a college to root for and just wants to watch the game. 

While that is the most logical first step, the next step could be a college basketball. ESPN continues to bring in important IPs as they are building their one-stop sports watching app that will release this fall. 

But even though ESPN now owns the RedZone name, Goodell confirms that the flagship show will not be changed. 

“It’ll continue to be produced right here in this building,” Goodell said, “It will be the NFL RedZone. I don’t think fans will see any difference to that.