From CNBC: 2024-09-05 09:00:01

The Seattle Seahawks could be among the next NFL teams to sell, following the death of former owner Paul Allen, who left the team to be eventually sold, with proceeds going to charity. The average NFL team is valued at $6.49 billion, with revenue of $640 million and operating income of $127 million. The league’s new media rights deal, valued at more than $110 billion, means owners may wait to sell for higher valuations. Upcoming international games in Spain, Germany, and Brazil could boost revenue.

The last NFL franchise to sell was the Washington Commanders in 2023, following allegations of workplace misconduct that led to the $6 billion sale to Josh Harris. Recent team sales have set record valuations, with the Bills now worth $5.35 billion, the Panthers at $5.9 billion, and the Broncos at $6.2 billion. The NFL prefers long-term team ownership due to tax-efficient family handoffs.

NFL owners voted to allow select private equity firms to buy up to a 10% stake of a team, with the Miami Dolphins, the Bills, and Los Angeles Chargers considering selling minority stakes. Limited ownership aims to maintain teams’ roles in local communities. The NFL has taken small steps into private equity ownership, intending to add more buyer options while maintaining the league’s unique culture.



Read more at CNBC: NFL team sales are likely to stall as valuations soar