NFL and The Athletic Explore Expanded Relationship Amid Conflict Concerns

The NFL is reportedly considering a deeper collaboration with The Athletic, particularly in enhancing its digital content offerings. This development follows the NFL's sale of its media properties to ESPN, prompting the need for new online content.

Discussions may include featuring The Athletic's content on NFL.com and NFL+. The Athletic has previously secured rights to use game footage on its subscription platform, which adds another layer to the potential partnership.

However, this relationship raises questions about conflicts of interest, especially in light of ongoing investigations into former NFL Insider Dianna Russini's reporting practices. Concerns have been voiced regarding how a business arrangement with the NFL could compromise The Athletic's journalistic standards, which emphasize the importance of maintaining credibility and avoiding any appearance of bias.