Looks like DirecTV’s got a new set of downs on its exclusive rights to its “Sunday Ticket” NFL coverage, according to sources close to talks.
While both the NFL and satellite broadcaster DirecTV say that a deal isn’t done, two sources familiar with talks say the two sides are in agreement on the main point, the money.
DirecTV is believed to be expecting a $200 million increase in fees on its existing $1 billion annual contact, though it may receive new digital rights.
The company’s current deal, which expires after next season, costs around $1 billion and nets DirecTV around two million subscribers.
“They’re discussing over-the-top rights and who owns the data,” a person familiar with discussions said.
Amy Yong at Macquarie predicts an increase of 20 to 25 percent on DirecTV’s current four-year deal.
One possible area of negotiation is DirecTV’s development of its exclusive hold on “Red Zone,” its mobile product.
Any fine points would have to be agreed upon ahead of March, when the owner’s committee would need to ratify a deal.
Speaking at a DirecTV investor day in New York, CEO Mike White said: “Talks are going well. We’re confident we’ll get an exclusive deal.”
That comment gave analysts the belief that DirecTV will indeed seal the pact.
Tuna Amobi, an entertainment analyst with S&P, told The Post: “They sounded more constructive then I would have expected.”
On December 4, DirecTV announced an investment in a firm called LiveClips, a technology outfit that allows customers to search for highlights based on, say, their Fantasy Football picks.