AT&T (T) Investors Breath Easier as DIRECTV (DTV) Extends Exclusive NFL SUNDAY TICKET Rights

Executives and investors at AT&T Inc (NYSE: T) are breathing easier Wednesday after takeover target DIRECTV (Nasdaq: DTV) extended and expanding its exclusive rights to carry NFL SUNDAY TICKET. The new agreement also expands DIRECTV’s rights to stream NFL SUNDAY TICKET live on mobile devices and via broadband.

The company called it a multi-year deal but specific terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"This new agreement is a testament to the terrific long-term relationship we have with the NFL and its millions of fans across the country," said Mike White, chairman, president and CEO of DIRECTV. "NFL SUNDAY TICKET has always been the centerpiece of DIRECTV's sports leadership and we're pleased to continue our relationship with the NFL and be a part of the league's future growth and success."

In May, AT&T and DIRECTV entered into a definitive agreement under which AT&T will acquire DIRECTV in a stock-and-cash transaction for $95 per share. In late September, DIRECTV stockholders voted overwhelmingly to approve the merger. The transaction is still subject to regulatory review and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2015.

AT&T could have walked away from the deal if the NFL SUNDAY TICKET agreement was not renewed.

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