ESPN has secured a handshake agreement with the College Football Playoff to broadcast a 24-team playoff starting in 2027. The deal represents a major step toward expanding the postseason field, though contracts still need formal signatures before it's official.
The 24-team format replaces the current 12-team model that debuted this season. Expanding the field gives more conferences and teams a realistic path to the postseason and keeps ESPN's grip on college football's most valuable inventory. The network already broadcasts the current playoff structure.
Details on revenue splits, scheduling windows, and how ESPN will handle competing broadcasts remain to be finalized. This handshake agreement signals both sides have agreed on the framework, but the actual deal documentation still needs work before announcement.
The 2027 start date gives the CFP and conferences time to align on playoff logistics, bowl game placements, and regular season scheduling. Expanding to 24 teams was widely expected after the 12-team format proved popular with fans and delivered strong ratings during its inaugural run.