The 12-team College Football Playoff field might be coming to an end very soon.
On Tuesday, CFP executives opened a 30-day negotiating window with ESPN to try and give an offer to the CFP, according to Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports.
ESPN now has 30 days to present an offer. CFP executives can either accept, or reject and move to the open market.
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) September 8, 2026
The move must come with an increase in revenue – at least $250M – to compensate for the cancellation of the four conference championship games.
Here’s the official statement from the CFP.
“The CFP has decided to move forward in its evaluation of potential Playoff expansion to 24 teams by beginning a media rights discussion with ESPN. This does not represent a decision or commitment to expand, but rather an opportunity to engage with ESPN and gather additional information to help determine a path forward. The CFP will provide additional updates when appropriate.”
The 24-team field is something that has been discussed quite a bit lately, although it has drawn mixed reviews. Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal was strongly against it, saying it takes away the importance of regular-season games if so many teams get in.
This past year was just the second time with a 12-team field, but depending on ESPN’s offer, it could move to 24 teams very soon.
