In an absolute blitz of news this week, the cable sports institution ESPN showed how it is fully transforming into a streaming-first player.

The network inked several new deals with the NFL, announced the imminent launch of its all-inclusive streaming service, and added new wrestling programming from the WWE to entice subscribers.

The overarching goal is to maintain and grow ESPN as a must-have media brand.

Here are the headlines point by point:

• ESPN will turn on its eponymous direct-to-consumer streaming service on August 21. It will cost $29.99 a month. The service will include ESPN’s full suite of networks — encompassing some 47,000 live events each year — providing a new option for people who don’t already get ESPN through a cable package.

“We think we’re going to pick up a lo

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