Ian Rapoport’s Future Is In Serious Doubt

This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

Ian Rapoport has spent more than a decade breaking NFL news and shaping the league’s media landscape. Now, he faces questions about his own future.

As ESPN moves closer to finalizing its merger with NFL Media, Rapoport does not know what comes next. His contract with NFL Media expires in three months. So far, he says no one has given him clarity. A few years ago, he was in a similar situation, facing uncertainty about his job at that time as well.

In an interview with Andrew Marchand of The Athletic, Rapoport spoke openly about the uncertainty. “Just so we are clear, I don’t know what is coming,” he told Marchand. “No one has told me, ‘It’s going to be like this. It’s going to be like that.’ There are a lot of things I don’t know. A lot of people don’t know, but I’m excited because ESPN is very good at what it does.”

Rapoport added that he believes ESPN plans to invest more in football coverage. “From my understanding, it is going to be more football, more coverage, investing in NFL Network and making it as best as it could possibly be,” he said.

ESPN-NFL Merger Raises Big Questions

The sports world expects ESPN to absorb NFL Media while allowing NFL Network to keep its identity. Many industry observers compare the situation to how ESPN handles the SEC Network. ESPN gives exposure and support but lets the network operate with its own tone.

NFL Network has built a steady audience over the years. Viewers often describe it as calmer and more focused than some of ESPN’s louder programs. Fans may debate its reach, but many appreciate its steady style.

Ian Rapoport on ESPN-NFL Media deal, his contract being up in May & Adam Schefter

Full pod & column 👇👇 https://t.co/zZte2mzRif pic.twitter.com/doE1kv4qEa

— Andrew Marchand (@AndrewMarchand) February 19, 2026

Rapoport could find himself under the same umbrella as ESPN insider Adam Schefter, who once worked at NFL Network. Rapoport did not hide his interest in that possibility.

“If (we) were to work together, I think that would be awesome. I have no idea if it is going to happen. But it would be like The Avengers,” Rapoport said.

For now, Ian Rapoport is still doing his job, even though he does not have clear answers about his future. He remains one of the most popular and trusted NFL insiders, and his reports make headlines almost every week.

The merger between ESPN and NFL Media could change the sports media world. It could also have a big impact on Rapoport’s career. Until company leaders share their plans, people will keep wondering what will happen.

Rapoport says he is prepared for whatever comes next. At the same time, he admits he is waiting for answers just like everyone else.