Fledgling FXFL Signs Deal To Broadcast Games On ESPN3 Digital Platform

The startup Fall Experimental Football League (FXFL) has taken "one step closer toward legitimizing its brand," signing a deal to "show the league’s games" on ESPN3, according to Peter Bukowski of SI.com. A league spokesperson said that part of the "impetus for the deal was the NFL’s desire to have film of the games to evaluate." Sources said that the NFL has been "keeping a close eye on the FXFL." While the FXFL has "no current affiliation with the NFL, the startup league hopes to become a true minor league system." But securing a TV commitment from ESPN "doesn’t necessarily assure success for the future of the FXFL." Many leagues have "tried and failed even with the backing of major networks on over-air television platforms." However, FXFL Commissioner Brian Woods and his league "want to be taken out of the 'fledging' and 'startup' category not by competing" with the NFL (SI.com, 10/1).