The once-thriving cable channel, launched by the league in 2003, is now seemingly fading fast.

The first blow came with the decision to take a popular morning show off the air, leaving fans puzzled and disappointed. The show's relocation from one coast to the other has left a void in the network's programming schedule for an indefinite period of time.

However, the situation took a more worrisome turn with the news of recent post-draft layoffs that may result in the discontinuation of "Total Access," the nightly studio show that covers all things NFL. Although the show remains listed on NFLN's online schedule, its future seems uncertain, given the reported layoffs.

The NFL released a statement explaining that its decision to part ways with some employees is aimed at supporting strategic priorities such as international expansion, the growth of flag football, and the evolution of digital and media platforms. While these priorities are important for the league, the layoffs have raised concerns about the overall strength of both the game and the business.

Reports from FrontOfficeSports.com suggest that the league concluded a round of layoffs in the past 24 hours, mentioning that "some NFL Network employees" were affected. It is worth noting that post-draft layoffs are not uncommon for the league, as this period often sees a dip in work flow, making it easier to make such workforce adjustments.

As the NFL Network undergoes changes, fans are left wondering what remains for the network if "Total Access" is indeed discontinued. The cable channel appears to be transitioning into a YouTube channel for old games and NFL Films shows, which raises questions about its long-term viability.

Interestingly, these developments come at a time when there are expectations of a potential acquisition of NFL Media by ESPN. If this deal were to go through, it would essentially mean that ESPN would be acquiring a network in a state of flux, a mere skeleton of its former self.

The NFL Network's uncertain future highlights the challenges faced by traditional cable channels in the evolving media landscape. As the digital and streaming platforms continue to dominate the sports media industry, it remains to be seen how the NFL Network will adapt and navigate this changing landscape to ensure its relevance and continued success.