NFL Network Shakes Up its News Team, but Rapoport Remains a Key Player

NFL Network has recently undergone changes to cut costs, including putting its show Good Morning Football on hiatus and relocating studios from New York to Los Angeles. This move has resulted in layoffs of on-air personalities like Andrew Siciliano, Melissa Stark, Will Selva, and James Palmer. However, one constant in this fast-paced world remains as top insider Ian Rapoport has agreed to a new deal with NFL Network.

NFL Vice President of Communications, Alex Riethmiller, expressed excitement for Rapoport’s re-signing and his continued role as part of the network’s news-breaking team. Rapoport has been with NFL Network for 12 years and is regularly competing with ESPN’s Adam Schefter for breaking news in the NFL.

Rapoport’s re-signing comes amidst discussions between the NFL and ESPN regarding the league potentially taking a minority equity stake in the network. This could result in assets like NFL Network falling under Disney’s ownership, although NFL Films is expected to remain under NFL’s control. The NFL has been considering bids for its network and other media assets like NFL+ and Red Zone, with a focus on streamlining operations.

Despite these changes, Rapoport will remain a key figure on the network, particularly during draft coverage and beyond.