ESPN is finalizing a new contract to retain Mike Garafolo, a veteran NFL Network reporter, following Disney’s acquisition of NFL Network earlier this year. This deal solidifies Garafolo’s position within ESPN, which now holds a 10% stake by the NFL through this acquisition. While details of Garafolo’s contract remain confidential, ESPN’s goal is to maintain his presence alongside other top league insiders.

Garafolo is known not only for his deep connections within the NFL but also for his engaging on-air personality. He co-hosts the popular show The Insiders with Ian Rapoport, who recently signed a multi-year deal with ESPN and NFL Network, and Tom Pelissero, another respected NFL insider. All three hosts bring credibility and talent, frequently appearing on flagship programs such as Good Morning Football, SportsCenter, Get Up, and NFL Live, which ESPN is likely to feature them on more extensively.

With the NFL Network’s integration, ESPN has bulked up its NFL reporter roster significantly. Besides Garafolo, Rapoport, and Pelissero, ESPN’s ranks include Jeremy Fowler, Field Yates, Dan Graziano, and Jeff Darlington, who also contributes to non-NFL events like the Masters and Wimbledon. Peter Schrager is also expected to receive his own show in the afternoon lineup, bolstering ESPN’s NFL coverage further.

Despite ongoing layoffs and cost-cutting measures following the acquisition, ESPN is making a clear investment in NFL coverage by assembling a deep bench of talent. The network also benefits from seasoned reporters like Kimberley Martin, Sal Paolantonio, Courtney Cronin, and a full complement of beat writers, supported by NFL Network talents such as Sherree Burruss and Stacey Dales, who adds versatility with her basketball background. This expansion underscores ESPN’s strategy to dominate NFL reporting and studio coverage in the upcoming season.