The College Football Playoff confirmed Saturday that discussions with ESPN on media rights for a potential expansion to a 24-team field remain ongoing, even after the exclusive 30-day negotiating window ended Friday.
In a statement issued October 10, the CFP said the dialogue during the window “has been constructive” and that the sides will “carry these conversations forward with ESPN as we determine the path ahead.” The organization cited the confidential nature of the talks and said it would provide further updates when appropriate.
The window, which opened in early September, gave ESPN the first opportunity to negotiate rights for any expansion beyond the current 12-team format. Under the existing six-year agreement with ESPN, the network holds exclusive rights through the 2031-32 season for a field of up to 14 teams. Any larger format requires a renegotiation for the additional games.
A 24-team model has emerged as the leading option under consideration. It could be implemented as soon as the 2027 season if the Power conferences, particularly the Big Ten and SEC, reach agreement. Such a format would likely eliminate Power 4 conference championship games, whose combined media value has been estimated in the $200 million range or higher by sources familiar with the negotiations. Group of Six leagues would not be required to drop their title games.
The talks also center on the value of the additional inventory created by a larger bracket—primarily new first- and second-round games that would be played on campus sites. If the CFP and ESPN do not reach terms, the organization can take the expanded package to the open market, though ESPN retains certain matching rights under the current contract structure. The CFP has until December 1 to finalize any format changes in time for the 2027 season.
No financial terms or timeline for a decision were disclosed in Saturday’s statement. The current 12-team playoff structure remains in place while the discussions continue.
