Report: ESPN expected to land SEC rights after 2023

CBS has walked away from the negotiating table with the SEC, which is expected to have its broadcasting rights land with ESPN/ABC after 2023, report Sports Business Daily's John Ourand and Michael Smith.

The network reportedly offered the conference around $300 million per season to retain its rights. CBS pays $55 million annually under the current contract, which has four years remaining on it. The SEC could buy out the rest of the contract if it wishes to migrate earlier.

"We made a strong and responsible bid," CBS said in a statement. "While we've had success with the 'SEC on CBS,' we are instead choosing to aggressively focus on other important strategic priorities moving forward."

Disney, which owns ESPN and ABC, is reportedly in the final negotiating stages with the SEC for a deal that would exceed $330 million annually. While the two sides are expected to strike an agreement, FOX Sports executives are planning to submit a bid at SEC headquarters in January.

The "SEC on CBS" has been the most-viewed package in college football for the last 10 years.