ESPN has re-signed Don Van Natta Jr. to a new multi-year deal. The Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter will continue leading high-impact investigative work for the network.
What We Know: Van Natta has been a senior writer at ESPN since 2012, operating within its Investigative, Enterprise and Digital Journalism Unit. Before ESPN, he spent 16 years at The New York Times, contributing to two Pulitzer Prize-winning teams. Earlier, he helped the Miami Herald earn the 1993 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service covering Hurricane Andrew. His recent ESPN work includes exclusive reporting that led to NFLPA leader Lloyd Howell’s resignation.
What They Said: Chris Buckle, ESPN Vice President, Investigative, Enterprise and Digital Journalism: “Don brings experience, expertise and unmatched persistence to his work every day, and we’re thrilled that he will be contributing to our journalism for years to come.”
What Remains Unclear: ESPN hasn’t disclosed the financial terms of the new contract. Additionally, it’s unknown whether Van Natta’s role will expand beyond his current investigative focus.
What It Means: This signing signals ESPN’s continued commitment to premium accountability journalism. Notably, the network also added six former Washington Post reporters this year. Together, these moves suggest ESPN is aggressively building a newsroom capable of continuing to compete with traditional media outlets. Investigative reporting is clearly a strategic priority, not an afterthought for ESPN.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
