The ACC is exploring a new revenue structure in an attempt to resolve lawsuits with Florida State and Clemson and keep both universities in the league, sources confirmed to CBS Sports’ Brandon Marcello. ACC presidents first discussed a potential new deal during in-person league meetings last week, and those talks continued in a conference call on Tuesday.
In addition, shortening the current grant of rights agreement is also on the table. The ACC’s current grant of rights agreement with ESPN runs through 2036, but under the new proposal, it would be set to end in 2030.
Talks are still in the preliminary stage, and it’s unclear whether enough support exists to get a deal done. Any potential new agreement would require a two-thirds majority vote to pass.
Florida State and Clemson returning to the negotiating table would come in stark contrast to recent developments.
August mediation talks between the ACC and Florida State were unfruitful, leading FSU to file a 574-page request for a partial summary judgment last week In Florida.
This proposal could be a last-ditch effort to avoid a court decision that would have a widespread impact across college athletics. Should Florida State and Clemson win their prospective lawsuits, grant of rights contracts for every conference would be at risk.
