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ESPN will reportedly pay additional $345 million annually for expanded College Football Playoff

The College Football Playoff is poised for a major expansion, with ESPN reportedly nearing a deal to double the postseason field to 24 teams starting in 2027. Sources indicate the network will pay an additional $345 million annually over the next five years—on top of its existing $1.3 billion yearly commitment—though a portion of that cost will be offset by the cancellation of three power-conference championship games ESPN currently broadcasts.

The agreement, described as a 'handshake deal,' still requires formal approval from all involved parties but marks a significant step toward reshaping college football’s postseason landscape. ESPN’s exclusive rights to the playoff, secured in a 2024 contract worth $7.8 billion through the 2031-32 season, will now extend to cover the expanded format, though the financial adjustments reflect both increased investment and strategic cost savings.

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