The Powers That Be: Daily Ellison’s Playbook & NFL’s $100B Bonanza
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Oct 11, 2025 
Michael Nathanson, a veteran media analyst and co-founder of MoffettNathanson, dives into the ever-evolving sports media landscape. He discusses Paramount’s aggressive strategy under David Ellison and the implications of the NFL's staggering $110 billion rights bonanza. The conversation also tackles the future of streaming packages, the unexpected reliance of legacy networks on niche sports, and the impact of AI investment on tech budgets for sports rights. A thrilling exploration of sports media trends awaits!
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Legacy Networks Crave NFL Certainty
- Legacy broadcasters urgently want earlier NFL deal certainty because it stabilizes investor expectations.
- Locking long-term NFL rights is the clearest path to protecting linear-TV economics over the next decade.
NFL Can Monetize New Packages Without 18th Game
- The NFL can create new rights packages (e.g., international or extra games) without immediately expanding to 18 games.
- That flexibility lets the league sell fresh inventory to streamers while protecting core broadcaster deals.
Analyst Surprise At Paramount's First Big Move
- Michael Nathanson recalled being surprised Paramount paid double for UFC and questioned strategic priorities.
- He noted the move was an unexpected first signal from the new Ellison regime.