ESPN eliminating 150 jobs in cutbacks

ESPN said it is eliminating 150 studio and production employees as the sports broadcasting giant continues to shift its focus to a more digital future.

The company said the layoffs don’t include on-air talent and will have a minimal impact on the network’s signature SportsCenter news program.

The company said it will grow its business in several key areas, including the planned launch early next year of “ESPN+”, an app-based service that will allow viewers to purchase sporting events a la carte.

“It’s not something I’m worried about for the rest of my life. ... I know what I signed up for. It’s a gladiator sport.”

—Falcons running back Devonta Freeman, about his second concussion this year and third in three years