The NFL sold its NFL Network and Sunday RedZone television show to ESPN on Tuesday in exchange for a 10% equity stake in the US-based sports television network.

Both companies announced the deal, which also includes the combining of NFL Fantasy Football with ESPN Fantasy Football.

Federal regulators must approve the transaction, a process that could take several months, according to the league. Until the deal closes, fans are unlikely to see any significant changes to ESPN or NFL Network.

NFL team owners also must approve the deal, but that is seen as little more than a formality given the expanded reach on offer for NFL programming.

"I think we've hooked up with the best partners we can have," said New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, chairman of the NFL's media committee.

"That

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