Regarding T.V. rights fees, lets compare pool with something in the same stratosphere, not the NFL.
The PBA,(bowling) just recently signed a new T.V. deal. Their deal provides them with no rights fees, but for the first time since the mid-90s the deal will actually pay for their production costs. For the last 15 years, they have been paying it out of pocket and just struggling to stay afloat. But, they did it. Maybe in another 10 years they will get paid rights fees and a better time slot.(They currently air opposite the NFL.)
But remember, they got this deal while having a single organization working towards it. Financial backing from their couple moderately wealthy owners and near continuous presence on TV. And they almost went bankrupt every year along the way. Anyone who thinks its as easy as someone just asking ESPN for some rights fees, doesn't get it. It will take serious financial backing, plus big time industry support, in an industry filled with small time companies. Plus, you still got to draw a rating once you get on air. It might happen as a one off once and a while, but full seasons? I don't think anyone active in the industry, has that kind of bankroll, or is that mad at their money.