Nexstar Media (NXST) 10-K 29 Feb 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 22, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	NXST
Entity Registrant Name	NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP INC
Entity Central Index Key	1,142,417
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 1,518,899,720
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		30,652,804

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 43,416	$ 131,912
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,369 and $3,002, respectively		192,991	127,878
Broadcast rights		16,297	10,873
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		7,324	5,264
Total current assets		260,028	275,927
Property and equipment, net		266,583	237,739
Goodwill		451,662	256,491
FCC licenses		489,335	322,040
Other intangible assets, net		314,361	194,129
Other noncurrent assets, net		53,165	127,776
Total assets	[1]	1,835,134	1,414,102
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		22,139	15,840
Current portion of broadcast rights payable		17,510	11,935
Accounts payable		25,936	17,231
Accrued expenses		60,484	36,807
Taxes payable		75	4,899
Interest payable		10,939	4,601
Other current liabilities		8,978	5,953
Total current liabilities		146,061	97,266
Debt		1,454,075	1,204,529
Deferred tax liabilities		101,764	11,876
Other noncurrent liabilities		46,861	43,894
Total liabilities	[1]	$ 1,748,761	$ 1,357,565
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 200,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding at each of December 31, 2015 and 2014
Additional paid-in capital		$ 396,224	$ 398,029
Accumulated deficit		(268,120)	(345,804)
Treasury stock - at cost; 993,565 shares at December 31, 2015		(47,746)
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity		80,674	52,537
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated variable interest entities		5,699	4,000
Total stockholders' equity		86,373	56,537
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		1,835,134	1,414,102
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock		316	312
Total stockholders' equity		$ 316	$ 312
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock
Class C Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock
[1]	The consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain assets held by consolidated VIEs of $119.9 million and $49.1 million, respectively, which are not available to be used to settle the obligations of Nexstar. The consolidated total liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs of $40.7 million and $17.9 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. See Note 2 for additional information.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets:
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 5,369	$ 3,002
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	200,000	200,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Treasury Stock, Shares	993,565
Consolidated VIEs [Member]
ASSETS
Consolidated VIEs, Assets	$ 119,909	$ 49,131
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Consolidated VIEs, Liabilities	$ 40,715	$ 17,870
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	31,621,369	31,172,060
Common stock, shares outstanding	30,627,804	31,172,060
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Class C Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, shares outstanding	0	0

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues [Abstract]
Net revenue	$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833	$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Operating expenses:
Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													302,257	187,432	147,711
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													232,480	175,429	152,213
Amortization of broadcast rights													59,836	34,316	35,439
Amortization of intangible assets													48,475	25,850	30,148
Depreciation													47,222	35,047	33,578
Total operating expenses													690,270	458,074	399,089
Income from operations	67,346		48,315		52,542		37,904		68,899	41,696	34,942	27,700	206,107	173,237	103,241
Interest expense, net													(80,520)	(61,959)	(66,243)
Loss on extinguishment of debt														(71)	(34,724)
Other expenses													(517)	(556)	(1,459)
Income before income taxes	46,772		27,804		32,001		18,493		52,850	25,994	19,405	12,402	125,070	110,651	815
Income tax expense													(48,687)	(46,101)	(2,600)
Net income (loss)													76,383	64,550	(1,785)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests													1,301
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.	$ 27,174		$ 17,282		$ 20,321		$ 12,907		$ 30,849	$ 15,404	$ 10,944	$ 7,353	$ 77,684	$ 64,550	$ (1,785)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.:
Basic	$ 0.89		$ 0.55		$ 0.65		$ 0.41		$ 1	$ 0.50	$ 0.36	$ 0.24	$ 2.50	$ 2.10	$ (0.06)
Diluted	$ 0.86		$ 0.54		$ 0.63		$ 0.40		$ 0.96	$ 0.48	$ 0.34	$ 0.23	$ 2.42	$ 2.02	$ (0.06)
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic	30,622		31,262		31,325		31,196		30,962	30,888	30,641	30,603	31,100	30,774	29,897
Diluted	31,580		32,151		32,382		32,256		32,102	32,067	31,932	31,909	32,091	32,003	29,897
Dividends declared per common share													$ 0.76	$ 0.60	$ 0.48
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Class A Common Stock [Member]	Class B Common Stock [Member]	Class C Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Noncontrolling interest in a consolidated variable interest entity [Member]
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 2,239	$ 217	$ 77		$ 410,514	$ (408,569)
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2012		21,677,248	7,702,471
Stock-based compensation expense	2,080				2,080
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock		$ 77	$ (77)
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, shares		7,702,471	(7,702,471)
Purchase of treasury stock	(8,422)						$ (8,422)
Purchase of treasury stock, shares							(365,384)
Exercise of stock options	6,959	$ 12			(1,475)		$ 8,422
Exercise of stock options, shares		1,218,816					365,384
Common stock dividends declared	(14,302)				(14,302)
Net income (loss)	(1,785)					(1,785)
Net income (loss)	(1,785)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	(13,231)	$ 306			396,817	(410,354)
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2013		30,598,535
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2013			0
Stock-based compensation expense	7,598				7,598
Exercise of stock options	2,031	$ 6			2,025
Exercise of stock options, shares		573,525
Excess tax benefit from stock option exercises	10,034				10,034
Common stock dividends declared	(18,445)				(18,445)
Consolidation of a variable interest entity	4,000							$ 4,000
Net income (loss)	64,550					64,550
Net income (loss)	64,550
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	56,537	$ 312			398,029	(345,804)		4,000
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2014		31,172,060	0	0
Stock-based compensation expense	11,400				11,400
Purchase of treasury stock	(48,660)						$ (48,660)
Purchase of treasury stock, shares							(1,010,565)
Exercise of stock options, shares							17,000
Exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units	3,357	$ 4			2,439		$ 914
Exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units, shares		449,309					17,000
Excess tax benefit from stock option exercises	8,042				8,042
Common stock dividends declared	(23,686)				(23,686)
Consolidation of a variable interest entity	2,900							2,900
Contribution from a noncontrolling interest	100							100
Net income (loss)	77,684
Net income (loss)	76,383					77,684		(1,301)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 86,373	$ 316			$ 396,224	$ (268,120)	$ (47,746)	$ 5,699
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2015		31,621,369	0	0
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2015	993,565						(993,565)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 76,383	$ 64,550	$ (1,785)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for bad debt	3,180	2,310	2,697
Amortization of broadcast rights, excluding barter	22,154	11,634	12,613
Depreciation of property and equipment	47,222	35,047	33,578
Amortization of intangible assets	48,475	25,850	30,148
Loss on asset disposal, net	2,109	638	1,280
Amortization of debt financing costs and debt discounts	3,752	2,792	3,280
Loss on extinguishment of debt		71	34,724
Stock-based compensation expense	11,400	7,598	2,080
Deferred income taxes	43,675	43,491	2,667
Payments for broadcast rights	(22,473)	(12,025)	(14,191)
Deferred gain recognition	(437)	(436)	(436)
Amortization of deferred representation fee incentive	(1,169)	(845)	(820)
Non-cash representation contract termination fee	1,516	353
Issue discount paid upon debt extinguishment			(8,161)
Premium on debt extinguishment			(28,364)
Excess tax benefit from stock option exercises	(8,042)	(10,034)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions:
Accounts receivable	(30,310)	(10,378)	(38,114)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,324)	1,321	(3,177)
Other noncurrent assets	293	333	97
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	16,903	6,182	5,625
Taxes payable	(22,790)	(1,789)	(33)
Interest payable	6,338	(60)	(4,042)
Other noncurrent liabilities	411	(76)	(2,327)
Net cash provided by operating activities	197,266	166,527	27,339
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(29,021)	(20,389)	(18,955)
Deposits and payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(475,949)	(209,733)	(229,382)
Proceeds from sale of stations	27,005
Proceeds from disposals of property and equipment	3,624	89	219
Net cash used in investing activities	(474,341)	(230,033)	(248,118)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	421,950	237,275	654,563
Repayments of long-term debt	(166,290)	(72,431)	(438,835)
Payments for debt financing costs	(3,225)	(1,607)	(7,210)
Contribution from a noncontrolling interest	100
Purchase of treasury stock	(48,660)		(8,422)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	3,357	2,031	6,959
Excess tax benefit from stock option exercises	8,042	10,034
Common stock dividends paid	(23,686)	(18,445)	(14,302)
Payments for capital lease obligations	(3,009)	(1,467)	(945)
Net cash provided by financing activities	188,579	155,390	191,808
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(88,496)	91,884	(28,971)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	131,912	40,028	68,999
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	43,416	131,912	40,028
Supplemental information:
Interest paid	70,430	59,227	75,074
Income taxes paid, net of refunds	29,060	3,131	2,129
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Accrued purchases of property and equipment	2,371	3,767	1,763
Noncash purchases of property and equipment	4,025	7,023	3,683
Contingent consideration payable in connection with acquisition	$ 2,956
Accrued debt financing costs		$ 191	77
Amounts payable to sellers for acquisition of stations			$ 22,000

Organization and Business Opera

Organization and Business Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization and Business Operations	1. Organization and Business Operations As of December 31, 2015, Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (“Nexstar”) owned, operated, programmed or provided sales and other services to 99 full power television stations, including those owned by variable interest entities (“VIEs”), in 61 markets in the states of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin. The stations are affiliates of ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, The CW, MyNetworkTV and other broadcast television networks. The stations reach approximately 20.4 million viewers or 18.0% of all U.S. television households. Through various local service agreements, Nexstar provided sales, programming and other services to 30 full power television stations owned and/or operated by independent third parties.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Nexstar and the accounts of independently-owned VIEs for which Nexstar is the primary beneficiary (See Variable Interest Entities below). Nexstar and the consolidated VIEs are collectively referred to as the “Company.” Noncontrolling interests represent the VIE owners’ share of the equity in the consolidated VIEs and are presented as a component separate from Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity (deficit). All intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Nexstar management evaluates each arrangement that may include variable interests and determines the need to consolidate an entity where it determines Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of a VIE in accordance with related authoritative literature and interpretive guidance. Effective January 1, 2015, Nexstar entered into or assumed local service agreements to provide programming and sales services to stations acquired from Communications Corporation of America (“CCA”) and sold to Marshall Broadcasting Group, Inc. (“Marshall”) and stations owned by White Knight Broadcasting (“White Knight”), which were considered to be VIEs and were consolidated as of that date. Certain assets of consolidated VIEs are not available to settle the obligations of Nexstar and there are certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs for which the creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. In previous filings, the Company presented such amounts as separate captions in its Consolidated Balance Sheets. Beginning in the first quarter of 2015, the Company has elected to present these amounts in a combined footnote on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with footnote disclosure of the related carrying amounts and classification as of December 31, as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Current assets $ 2,910 $ 12 (1) Property and equipment, net 4,004 - Goodwill 18,182 697 (1) FCC licenses 74,312 46,727 Other intangible assets, net 20,112 1,695 (1) Other noncurrent assets, net 389 - Total assets 119,909 49,131 Current liabilities 14,288 7,852 Noncurrent liabilities 26,427 10,018 Total liabilities $ 40,715 $ 17,870 (1) These balances relate to Parker Broadcasting of Colorado, LLC and were previously not presented separately on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. This correction is not considered material to the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014. Liquidity Nexstar is highly leveraged, which makes it vulnerable to changes in general economic conditions. Nexstar’s ability to repay or refinance its debt will depend on, among other things, financial, business, market, competitive and other conditions, many of which are beyond Nexstar’s control. On January 29, 2015, Nexstar completed the issuance and sale of $275.0 million 6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes (“6.125% Notes”) at par (See Note 7). During 2015, Nexstar also borrowed a total of $145.0 million under its revolving credit facility and an additional net amount of $54.0 million in January and February 2016 from this facility. These borrowings were used to partially fund the acquisitions discussed in Note 3 and to pay for related fees and expenses. Through December 2015, Nexstar repaid $145.0 million outstanding principal balance under its revolving credit facility funded by cash on hand. On January 27, 2016, Nexstar entered into a definitive merger agreement with Media General, Inc., a Virginia corporation (“Media General”), whereby Nexstar will acquire the latter’s outstanding equity for cash and stock consideration with an estimated value of $2.0 billion, plus potential additional consideration in the form of a contingent value right entitling Media General shareholders to net cash proceeds from the sale of Media General’s spectrum in the Federal Communications Commission’s (“FCC”) upcoming spectrum auction. Nexstar has received commitment from a group of commercial banks to provide the debt financing to consummate the merger and refinance certain existing indebtedness of Nexstar, Media General and certain of their variable interest entities up to a maximum of $4.7 billion. With respect to Nexstar and certain of its variable interest entities, the debt refinancing will include the outstanding obligations under the revolving credit facilities and term loans. We expect the merger to be completed late in the third quarter/early in the fourth quarter of 2016, subject to a vote by stockholders of Nexstar and Media General, FCC approval and other regulatory approvals (including expiration of the applicable Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period) and other customary closing conditions. See Note 3 for additional information. As of December 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with its financial covenants contained in the amended credit agreements governing its senior secured credit facilities and the indentures governing Nexstar’s 6.875% Senior Unsecured Notes issued in 2012 and 2013 (“6.875% Notes”) and the 6.125% Notes. Variable Interest Entities The Company may determine that an entity is a VIE as a result of local service agreements entered into with an entity. The term local service agreement generally refers to a contract between two separately owned television stations serving the same market, whereby the owner-operator of one station contracts with the owner-operator of the other station to provide it with administrative, sales and other services required for the operation of its station. Nevertheless, the owner-operator of each station retains control and responsibility for the operation of its station, including ultimate responsibility over all programming broadcast on its station. A local service agreement can be (1) a time brokerage agreement (“TBA”) which allows Nexstar to program most of a station’s broadcast time, sell the station’s advertising time and retain the advertising revenue generated in exchange for monthly payments, based on the station’s monthly operating expenses, (2) a shared services agreement (“SSA”) which allows the Nexstar station in the market to provide services including news production, technical maintenance and security, in exchange for Nexstar’s right to receive certain payments as described in the SSA, or (3) a joint sales agreement (“JSA”) which permits Nexstar to sell certain of the station’s advertising time and retain a percentage of the related revenue, as described in the JSA. Consolidated VIEs Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (“Mission”), Marshall and Parker Broadcasting of Colorado, LLC (“Parker”) are consolidated by Nexstar because Nexstar is deemed under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) to have controlling financial interests in these entities for financial reporting purposes as a result of (1) local service agreements Nexstar has with the stations owned by these entities, (2) Nexstar’s guarantees of the obligations incurred under Mission’s and Marshall’s senior secured credit facilities (see Note 7), (3) Nexstar having power over significant activities affecting these entities’ economic performance, including budgeting for advertising revenue, certain advertising sales and, for Mission and Parker, hiring and firing of sales force personnel and (4) purchase options granted by Mission which permit Nexstar to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent. Effective January 1, 2015, upon Nexstar’s acquisition of CCA, Nexstar assumed CCA’s contractual obligations under its local service agreements with White Knight, the owner of three full power television stations in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Shreveport, Louisiana and Tyler-Longview, Texas markets. Nexstar evaluated the business arrangements with White Knight and has determined that it has a variable interest in this entity. Nexstar has also determined that it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest because it has the ultimate power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of White Knight, including management advice and consultation in broadcast matters, the ability to sell certain advertising on the White Knight stations, the production of the White Knight stations’ news and other programming, and oversight and control of sales management personnel. Additionally, Nexstar assumed CCA’s options to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each White Knight station, subject to FCC consent. Simultaneous with Nexstar’s acquisition of CCA, Nexstar sold the assets of CCA stations KPEJ and KMSS to Marshall and, as discussed above, Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of Marshall. Therefore, Nexstar consolidated White Knight, KPEJ and KMSS as of January 1, 2015. See Note 3 for additional information with respect to these transactions. The following table summarizes the various local service agreements Nexstar had in effect as of December 31, 2015 with Mission, Marshall, Parker and White Knight: Service Agreements Owner Full Power Stations TBA Only Mission WFXP and KHMT Parker KFQX SSA & JSA Mission KJTL, KLRT, KASN, KOLR, KCIT, KAMC, KRBC, KSAN, WUTR, WAWV, WYOU, KODE, WTVO, KTVE, WTVW and WVNY Marshall KLJB, KPEJ and KMSS White Knight WVLA, KFXK, KSHV Nexstar’s ability to receive cash from Mission, Marshall, Parker and White Knight is governed by the local service agreements. Under these agreements, Nexstar has received substantially all of the consolidated VIEs’ available cash, after satisfaction of operating costs and debt obligations. Nexstar anticipates it will continue to receive substantially all of the consolidated VIEs’ available cash, after satisfaction of operating costs and debt obligations. In compliance with FCC regulations for all the parties, Mission, Marshall, Parker and White Knight maintain complete responsibility for and control over programming, finances, personnel and operations of their stations. The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs which have been included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, were as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,137 $ 1,440 Accounts receivable, net 16,400 7,594 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,460 2,657 Total current assets 25,997 11,691 Property and equipment, net 29,681 26,235 Goodwill 69,825 35,308 FCC licenses 74,312 46,727 Other intangible assets, net 58,053 30,333 Other noncurrent assets, net 22,572 71,008 (1) Total assets $ 280,440 $ 221,302 Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ 6,985 $ 5,137 Interest payable 28 28 Other current liabilities 14,288 7,852 Total current liabilities 21,301 13,017 Debt 276,131 285,922 (1) Other noncurrent liabilities 26,427 10,018 Total liabilities $ 323,859 $ 308,957 (1) As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs and deferred tax assets and liabilities in the balance sheet. The guidance requires costs paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. Additionally, all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, should be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. As such, the amounts previously reported as current deferred tax assets and debt as of December 31, 2014 were decreased by $9.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively, and the amount previously reported as other noncurrent assets was increased by $6.2 million. Non-Consolidated VIEs Nexstar has an outsourcing agreement with Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation (“Cunningham”), which continues through December 31, 2017. Under the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar provides certain engineering, production, sales and administrative services for WYZZ, the FOX affiliate in the Peoria, Illinois market, through WMBD, the Nexstar television station in that market. During the term of the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar retains the broadcasting revenue and related expenses of WYZZ and is obligated to pay a monthly fee based on the combined operating cash flow of WMBD and WYZZ, as defined in the agreement. In connection with a proposed acquisition of four full power television stations from West Virginia Media Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“WVMH”), Nexstar began providing programming and sales services to WVMH stations effective December 1, 2015. Pursuant to the terms of the TBA with WVMH, Nexstar will pay an aggregate base fee of $7.5 million in equal monthly payments from the effective date through the final closing of the proposed acquisition which Nexstar projects to occur at the end of 2016. In the event that the proposed acquisition will not consummate for reasons beyond the control of Nexstar and WVMH, the TBA will terminate no later than June 30, 2017. See Note 3 for additional information. Nexstar has determined that it has variable interests in station WYZZ and the stations owned by WVMH. Nexstar has evaluated its arrangements with Cunningham and WVMH and has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of the variable interest in these stations because it does not have the ultimate power to direct the activities that most significantly impact their economic performance, including developing the annual operating budget, programming and oversight and control of sales management personnel. Therefore, Nexstar has not consolidated these stations under authoritative guidance related to the consolidation of VIEs. Under the agreements for WYZZ and the stations owned by WVMH, Nexstar pays for certain operating expenses, and therefore may have unlimited exposure to any potential operating losses. Nexstar’s management believes that Nexstar’s minimum exposure to loss under the WYZZ and WVMH agreements consist of the fees paid to Cunningham and WVMH. Additionally, Nexstar indemnifies Cunningham and WVMH from and against all liability and claims arising out of or resulting from its activities, acts or omissions in connection with the agreements. The maximum potential amount of future payments Nexstar could be required to make for such indemnification is undeterminable at this time. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Nexstar had balances in accounts payable of $0.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively, for fees under these arrangements and had receivables for advertising aired on these stations of $1.0 million and $0.7 million, respectively. Fees incurred under these arrangements of $1.2 million, $1.4 million and $5.3 million were included in direct operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Basis of Presentation Certain prior year financial statement amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and use assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure for contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. The more significant estimates made by management include those relating to the allowance for doubtful accounts, valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, retransmission revenue recognized, trade and barter transactions, income taxes, the recoverability of goodwill, FCC licenses and other long-lived assets, the recoverability of broadcast rights and the useful lives of property and equipment and intangible assets. Actual results may vary from such estimates recorded. Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents. Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The Company’s accounts receivable consist primarily of billings to its customers for advertising broadcast on its stations or placed on its websites or for retransmission consent from cable or satellite operators. Trade receivables normally have terms of 30 days and the Company has no interest provision for customer accounts that are past due. The Company maintains an allowance for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. Management periodically evaluates the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors, including customer payment history, known customer circumstances, the overall aging of customer balances and trends. In circumstances where management is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, an allowance is recorded to reduce their receivable amount to an amount estimated to be collectable. Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments which potentially expose the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Cash deposits are maintained with several financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits; however, the Company believes these deposits are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit and are not subject to any unusual credit risk. A significant portion of the Company’s accounts receivable is due from local and national advertising agencies. The Company does not require collateral from its customers, but maintains reserves for potential credit losses. Management believes that the allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate, but if the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, additional allowances may be required. The Company has not experienced significant losses related to receivables from individual customers or by geographical area. Revenue Recognition The Company’s revenue is primarily derived from the sale of advertising. Total revenue includes cash and barter advertising revenue, retransmission compensation, digital media revenue and other broadcast related revenues. Advertising revenue is recognized, net of agency commissions, in the period during which the advertisements are broadcast on its stations or delivered on its websites. The Company determines whether gross or net presentation is appropriate based on its relationship in the applicable transactions with its ultimate customer. Any amounts paid by customers but not earned by the balance sheet date are recorded in deferred revenue. Retransmission compensation is recognized based on the estimated number of subscribers over the contract period, based on historical levels and trends for individual providers. Revenue from our digital businesses includes revenue from a content management system platform and related services and is recognized when services are performed. The Company barters advertising time for certain program material. These transactions, except those involving exchange of advertising time for network programming, are recorded at management’s estimate of the fair value of the advertising time exchanged, which approximates the fair value of the program material received. The fair value of advertising time exchanged is estimated by applying average historical advertising rates for specific time periods. Revenue from barter transactions is recognized as the related advertisement spots are broadcast. Barter expense is recognized at the time program broadcast rights assets are used. The Company recorded $37.7 million, $22.7 million and $22.8 million of barter revenue and barter expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Barter expense is included in amortization of broadcast rights in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company trades certain advertising time for various goods and services. These transactions are recorded at the estimated fair value of the goods or services received. Revenue from trade transactions is recognized when the related advertisement spots are broadcast. The Company recorded $9.4 million, $8.5 million and $8.7 million of trade revenue for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Trade expense is recognized when services or merchandise received are used. The Company recorded $9.0 million, $8.7 million and $7.9 million of trade expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, which was included in direct operating expenses in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Broadcast Rights and Broadcast Rights Payable The Company records broadcast rights contracts as an asset and a liability when the following criteria are met: (1) the license period has begun, (2) the cost of each program is known or reasonably determinable, (3) the program material has been accepted in accordance with the license agreement, and (4) the program is produced and available for broadcast. Cash broadcast rights are initially recorded at the contract cost. Barter broadcast rights are recorded at fair value, which is estimated by using average historical rates for the time periods where the programming will air. Broadcast rights are amortized on a straight-line basis over the period the programming airs. The current portion of broadcast rights represents those rights available for broadcast which will be amortized in the succeeding year. At least quarterly, the Company evaluates the net realizable value, calculated using the average historical rates for the programs or the time periods the programming will air, of broadcast rights and adjusts amortization in that quarter for any deficiency calculated. Property and Equipment, Net Property and equipment is stated at cost or estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The cost and related accumulated depreciation applicable to assets sold or retired are removed from the accounts and the gain or loss on disposition is recognized. Major renewals and betterments are capitalized and ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to expense in the period incurred. Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets (see Note 4). Intangible Assets, Net Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill, broadcast licenses (“FCC licenses”), network affiliation agreements, developed technology and customer relationships arising from acquisitions. The purchase prices of acquired businesses are allocated to the assets and liabilities acquired at estimated fair values at the date of acquisition using various valuation techniques, including discounted projected cash flows, the cost approach and the income approach. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. The Company’s goodwill and FCC licenses are considered to be indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually in the Company’s fourth quarter, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such assets might be impaired. The use of an indefinite life for FCC licenses contemplates the Company’s historical ability to renew its licenses that such renewals generally may be obtained indefinitely and at little cost. Therefore, cash flows derived from the FCC licenses are expected to continue indefinitely. Network affiliation agreements are subject to amortization computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 15 years. The 15 year life assumes affiliation contracts will be renewed upon expiration. Changes in the likelihood of renewal could require a change in the useful life of such assets and cause an acceleration of amortization. The Company evaluates the remaining lives of its network affiliations whenever changes occur in the likelihood of affiliation contract renewals, and at least on an annual basis. The Company aggregates its television stations by market (a total of 55 reporting units) for purposes of goodwill and FCC license impairment testing because management views, manages and evaluates its stations on a market basis. Additionally, Nexstar has two digital media reporting units. The Company first assesses the qualitative factors to determine the likelihood of the goodwill and FCC licenses being impaired. The qualitative analysis includes, but is not limited to, assessing the changes in macroeconomic conditions, regulatory environment, industry and market conditions, and the financial performance versus budget of the reporting units, as well as any other events or circumstances specific to the reporting units or the FCC licenses. If it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s goodwill or a station’s FCC license is greater than its carrying amount, no further testing will be required. Otherwise, the Company will apply the quantitative impairment test method. The quantitative impairment test for FCC licenses consists of a market-by-market comparison of the carrying amount of FCC licenses with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis. The quantitative impairment test for goodwill utilizes a two-step fair value approach. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying amount. The fair value of a reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by performing an assumed purchase price allocation, using the reporting unit fair value (as determined in Step 1) as the purchase price. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Determining the fair value of reporting units requires management to make a number of judgments about assumptions and estimates that are highly subjective and that are based on unobservable inputs. The actual results may differ from these assumptions and estimates, and it is possible that such differences could have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition to the various inputs (i.e. market growth, operating profit margins, discount rates) used to calculate the fair value of FCC licenses and reporting units, the Company evaluates the reasonableness of its assumptions by comparing the total fair value of all its reporting units to its total market capitalization; and by comparing the fair values of its reporting units and FCC licenses to recent market television station sale transactions. The Company tests finite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable, relying on a number of factors including operating results, business plans, economic projections and anticipated future cash flows. An impairment in the carrying amount of a finite-lived intangible asset is recognized when the expected discounted future operating cash flow derived from the operation to which the asset relates is less than its carrying value. The impairment test for finite-lived intangible assets consists of an asset (asset group) comparison of the carrying amount with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis. Debt Financing Costs Debt financing costs represent direct costs incurred to obtain long-term financing and are amortized to interest expense over the term of the related debt using the effective interest method. Previously capitalized debt financing costs are expensed and included in loss on extinguishment of debt if the Company determines that there has been a substantial modification of the related debt. As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs. The guidance requires cost paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. As of December 31, 2015, and 2014, deferred financing costs related to term loans and publicly-held notes of $15.9 million and $15.8 million, respectively, were presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of debt. As of December 31, 2015, and 2014, debt financing costs related to revolving credit facilities of $0.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively, were included in other noncurrent assets. Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive income (loss) includes net income (loss) and certain items that are excluded from net income (loss) and recorded as a separate component of stockholders’ equity (deficit). During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company had no items of other comprehensive income (loss) and, therefore, comprehensive income (loss) does not differ from reported net income (loss). Advertising Expense The cost of advertising is expensed as incurred. The Company incurred advertising costs in the amount of $3.4 million, $2.7 million and $2.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, of which the majority was recognized in trade expense. Financial Instruments The Company utilizes the following categories to classify the valuation methodologies for fair values of financial assets and liabilities: Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity). The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, broadcast rights payable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, excluding acquisition related contingent consideration liabilities, approximates fair value due to their short-term nature. See Note 3 for fair value disclosures of contingent consideration payable in connection with the acquisition of Kixer, Inc (“Kixer”). See Note 7 for fair value disclosures related to the Company’s debt. Stock-Based Compensation Nexstar maintains stock-based employee compensation plans which are described more fully in Note 10. The Company calculates the grant-date fair value of employee stock options using the Black-Scholes model. The fair value of restricted stock units is based on the number of shares awarded and market price of the stock on the date of award. These amounts are recognized into selling, general and administrative expense over the vesting period of the options or the restricted stock units. Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is applied against net deferred tax assets if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Nexstar and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Mission, Marshall and White Knight file their own separate federal income tax returns. The Company recognizes the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities. The determination is based on the technical merits of the position and presumes that each uncertain tax position will be examined by the relevant taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The Company recognizes interest and penalties relating to income taxes within income tax expense. As

Acquisitions and Dispositions

Acquisitions and Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions and Dispositions	3. Acquisitions and Dispositions 2015 Acquisitions CCA Effective January 1, 2015, Nexstar completed the acquisition of the outstanding equity of privately-held CCA from SP ComCorp LLC, NexPoint Credit Strategies Fund and Highland Floating Rate Opportunities Fund and assumed CCA’s rights and obligations under its existing local service agreements with White Knight, for $278.1 million in cash. CCA and White Knight, collectively, owned 14 full power television stations in 10 markets. A deposit of $27.0 million was paid to CCA in April 2013 upon signing the stock purchase agreement. Nexstar paid the $251.1 million remaining purchase price at closing funded by a combination of cash on hand, term loans borrowed in October 2014 and borrowings from its revolving credit facility in 2015 (See Note 7). The transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees, of $0.5 million, $0.7 million and $0.8 million were expensed as incurred during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Additionally, employment charges of $0.6 million were incurred and included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations during the year ended December 31, 2015. Simultaneous with Nexstar’s acquisition of CCA, Nexstar sold the assets of CCA stations KPEJ and KMSS to Marshall for $43.3 million in cash, funded primarily by a $43.0 million deposit made in December 2014 arising from Marshall’s term loan. Nexstar also entered into local service agreements with Marshall to perform certain sales and other services for these stations. Additionally, Nexstar sold the assets of CCA station WEVV, the CBS and FOX affiliate serving the Evansville, Indiana market, to Bayou City Broadcasting Evansville, Inc. for $27.4 million in cash, plus a $0.8 million cash sale of certain real estate properties previously owned by Nexstar (not acquired from CCA). Nexstar recognized a net loss on disposal of $0.5 million in connection with this transaction. There is no relationship between Nexstar and BCB or their respective stations after the sale. The above transactions allow the Company entrance into seven new markets and create new duopolies in four markets. The full power television stations at acquisition are as follows: Market Market Rank Station Primary Affiliation Nexstar: Harlingen-Weslaco-Brownsville-McAllen, TX 86 KVEO NBC Waco-Temple-Bryan, TX 87 KWKT KYLE FOX MyNetworkTV El Paso, TX 91 KTSM NBC Baton Rouge, LA 93 WGMB FOX Tyler-Longview, TX 108 KETK NBC Lafayette, LA 124 KADN FOX Alexandria, LA 179 WNTZ FOX Marshall: Shreveport, LA 83 KMSS FOX Odessa-Midland, TX 146 KPEJ FOX White Knight: Baton Rouge, LA 93 WVLA NBC Tyler-Longview, TX 108 KFXK FOX Shreveport, LA 83 KSHV MyNetworkTV As discussed in Note 2, Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of the variable interests in White Knight and Marshall and has consolidated White Knight and the CCA stations Nexstar sold to Marshall, KPEJ and KMSS, into Nexstar’s Consolidated Financial Statements beginning January 1, 2015. Accordingly, the effects of the sale between Nexstar and Marshall have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidation of the assets and liabilities of White Knight into Nexstar resulted in a noncontrolling interest of $2.9 million, representing the residual fair value attributable to the owners of White Knight as of January 1, 2015, estimated by applying the income approach valuation technique. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the CCA acquisition (net of the effects of the sale of WEVV to BCB), including the consolidation of the assets and liabilities of White Knight, KPEJ and KMSS, are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 2,323 Accounts receivable 19,975 Broadcast rights 10,233 Deferred tax assets 247 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 257 Property and equipment 26,012 FCC licenses 71,465 Network affiliation agreements 86,219 Other intangible assets 7,818 Goodwill 120,370 Other assets 59 Total assets acquired and consolidated 344,978 Less: Broadcast rights payable (10,467 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (4,703 ) Less: Taxes payable (18,613 ) Less: Other current liabilities (336 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (57,022 ) Less: Other noncurrent liabilities (221 ) Less: Noncontrolling interest in a consolidated VIE (2,900 ) Net assets acquired and consolidated $ 250,716 During 2015, Nexstar recorded measurement period adjustments related to additional information obtained about a number of immaterial acquired working capital balances, which increased the estimated fair values of goodwill and deferred tax liabilities by $0.6 million and $1.6 million, respectively, none of which had a material impact on the Company’s results of operations in the current or prior periods. The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in operating costs. The majority of the goodwill, FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements are not deductible for tax purposes. The intangible assets related to the network affiliation agreements are amortized over 15 years and other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of six months. The acquired entities’ net revenue of $107.9 million and operating income of $34.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2015 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. KASW Effective January 29, 2015, Nexstar acquired the assets of KASW, the CW affiliate in the Phoenix, Arizona market, from Meredith Corporation and SagamoreHill of Phoenix, LLC for $70.8 million in cash. The acquisition allows Nexstar entrance into this market and the purchase price was funded through a portion of the proceeds of Nexstar’s offering of 6.125% senior unsecured notes and borrowings under Nexstar’s existing credit facility (See Note 7). No significant transaction costs were incurred in connection with this acquisition during the year ended December 31, 2015. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Accounts receivable $ 3,544 Broadcast rights 8,771 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 24 Property and equipment 987 FCC licenses 35,566 Other intangible assets 713 Goodwill 32,203 Total assets acquired 81,808 Less: Broadcast rights payable (10,291 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (739 ) Net assets acquired $ 70,778 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. The goodwill and FCC licenses are deductible for tax purposes. The intangible assets related to the network affiliation agreements are amortized over 15 years. Other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of eight months. KASW’s net revenue of $19.6 million and operating income of $9.3 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2015 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Yashi On February 2, 2015, Nexstar acquired the outstanding equity of Yashi, Inc. (“Yashi”), a local digital video advertising and targeted programmatic technology platform, for $33.4 million in cash. The acquisition was made to broaden Nexstar’s digital media portfolio with technologies and offerings that are complementary to Nexstar’s digital businesses and multi-screen strategies. The purchase price was funded through a portion of the proceeds of Nexstar’s offering of 6.125% Notes and borrowings under Nexstar’s existing credit facility (See Note 7). Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.1 million, were expensed as incurred during the year ended December 31, 2015. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 1,470 Accounts receivable 6,788 Property and equipment 114 Developed technology and other intangible assets 18,348 Goodwill 21,353 Other assets 15 Total assets acquired 48,088 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (7,641 ) Less: Taxes payable (108 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (6,985 ) Net assets acquired $ 33,354 During 2015, Nexstar recorded measurement period adjustments related to changes in the estimate of collectability of accounts receivable and changes in various valuation assumptions, which decreased the estimated fair values of accounts receivable, developed technology and other intangible assets and deferred tax liabilities by $1.7 million, $4.0 million and $1.6 million, respectively, and increased goodwill by $4.4 million. None of these measurement period adjustments had a material impact on the Company’s results of operations in the current or prior periods. The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in operating costs. The majority of the acquired goodwill and developed technology and other intangible assets are not deductible for tax purposes. The developed and other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of three years. Yashi’s net revenue of $18.8 million and operating loss of $3.3 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2015 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. KLAS On February 13, 2015, Nexstar acquired the outstanding equity of KLAS, LLC, the owner of television station KLAS, the CBS affiliate serving the Las Vegas, Nevada market, from Landmark Television, LLC and Landmark Media Enterprises, LLC, for $150.8 million in cash. The acquisition allows Nexstar entrance into this market and the purchase price was funded through a portion of the proceeds of Nexstar’s offering of 6.125% Notes and borrowings under Nexstar’s existing credit facility (See Note 7). Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.1 million, were expensed as incurred during each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 18 Accounts receivable 6,654 Broadcast rights 58 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 438 Property and equipment 19,238 FCC licenses 60,627 Network affiliation agreements 49,520 Goodwill 15,520 Total assets acquired 152,073 Less: Broadcast rights payable (58 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (1,051 ) Less: Other current liabilities (201 ) Net assets acquired $ 150,763 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. The goodwill and FCC licenses are deductible for tax purposes. The intangible assets related to the network affiliation agreements are amortized over 15 years. KLAS’ net revenue of $32.7 million and operating income of $6.6 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2015 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Kixer Effective October 1, 2015, Lakana LLC (“Lakana”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar, acquired the outstanding equity of Kixer from Centrility, LLC, Keith Bonnici and Know Media, LLC for $8.5 million in cash funded by a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under Nexstar’s revolving credit facility (See Note 7). The sellers could also receive additional cash payments if certain revenue targets are met during the year 2016 in accordance with the purchase agreement (the “Earnout Payments”). The estimated fair value of the Earnout Payments included in the purchase price is $3.0 million. This was determined by applying a weighted probability of potential outcomes to the maximum possible payout of $7.0 million. The calculation of these potential outcomes is dependent on past financial performance, management assumptions about future performance and industry trends and any changes to these assumptions could impact the final settlement. This fair value measurement is considered Level 3 as significant inputs are unobservable to the market. Contingent purchase considerations to be settled in cash are remeasured to estimated fair value at each reporting period and any change in fair value is recorded as an expense or credit to operating expense. From the date of acquisition to December 31, 2015, there were no significant changes to management’s fair value estimate of the Earnout Payments. As of December 31, 2015, the contingent consideration payable is included in accrued expenses in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Nexstar expects to fund the Earnout Payments through a combination of cash to be generated from operations and borrowings under Nexstar’s senior secured credit facility. Kixer is an advertising technology platform focused on optimizing and driving new mobile revenue streams for content publishers and this acquisition broadens Nexstar’s digital media portfolio with technologies and offerings that are complementary to its digital businesses and multi-screen strategies. Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.1 million, were expensed as incurred during the year ended December 31, 2015. Subject to final determination, the provisional fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 251 Accounts receivable 978 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 4 Property and equipment 19 Developed technology and other intangible assets 6,089 Goodwill 6,958 Total assets acquired 14,299 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (735 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (2,109 ) Net assets acquired $ 11,455 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in operating costs. The majority of the acquired goodwill and developed technology and other intangible assets are not deductible for tax purposes. The developed technology and other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of three years and six months. Kixer’s net revenue of $1.7 million and operating income of $0.4 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2015 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. 2014 Acquisitions Citadel On September 16, 2013, Nexstar entered into definitive agreements with Citadel to acquire three full power television stations in three markets along with the respective network affiliation agreements: WOI, the ABC affiliate in the Des Moines, Iowa market, WHBF, the CBS affiliate in the Quad Cities, Iowa market and KCAU, the ABC affiliate in the Sioux City, Iowa market. Nexstar acquired the assets of KCAU and WHBF and the outstanding equity of WOI for a total of $87.9 million in cash. In 2013, Nexstar made payments of $44.9 million to acquire the assets excluding FCC licenses and real property interests of KCAU and WHBF and $21.0 million as an upfront payment to acquire the outstanding equity of WOI, funded by a combination of borrowings under Nexstar’s revolving credit facility and cash on hand. Nexstar also entered into TBAs with these stations, effective September 16, 2013, to provide programming and sales services to these stations during the pendency of the FCC approval of the acquisitions. On March 5, 2014, Nexstar received approval from the FCC to purchase the remaining assets of KCAU and WHBF and to acquire the outstanding equity of WOI. On March 13, 2014, Nexstar completed the acquisition of FCC licenses and real property interests of KCAU and WHBF and the outstanding equity of WOI and paid the remaining purchase price of $22.0 million, funded by cash on hand. In addition, Nexstar finalized the fair values of the assets acquired and recorded a decrease in goodwill of $19 thousand. The TBAs entered into with KCAU, WHBF and WOI were also terminated as of this date. The acquisitions allow Nexstar entrance into three new markets. Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.1 million and $0.4 million, were expensed as incurred during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities consolidated upon becoming a VIE are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 269 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 305 Property and equipment 10,613 FCC licenses 24,700 Network affiliation agreements 26,129 Other intangible assets 3,398 Goodwill 30,195 Other assets 1,807 Total assets acquired 97,416 Less: Broadcast rights payable (269 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (397 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (8,801 ) Net assets acquired $ 87,949 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. The intangible assets related to the network affiliation agreements are amortized over 15 years. Other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of one year. The $10.7 million goodwill, $14.7 million FCC licenses and $15.1 million network affiliation agreements attributable to KCAU and WHBF are deductible for tax purposes. WOI’s goodwill, FCC license and network affiliation agreements of $19.5 million, $10.0 million and $11.0 million, respectively, will not be deductible for tax purposes. The acquired stations’ net revenue of $30.5 million and operating income of $8.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 and net revenue of $6.9 million and operating income of $0.8 million from September 16, 2013 to December 31, 2013 were included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations as a consolidated VIE. Internet Broadcasting Systems Effective April 1, 2014, Nexstar acquired the assets of Internet Broadcasting Systems, Inc. (“IBS”), a digital publishing platform and digital agency services provider, for a total purchase price of $18.8 million, funded by cash on hand. The acquisition broadens Nexstar’s digital media portfolio with technologies and offerings that are complementary to Nexstar’s digital businesses and multi-screen strategies. Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.1 million, were expensed as incurred during the year ended December 31, 2014. Additionally, employment charges of $0.5 million were incurred and included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Accounts receivable $ 631 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 154 Property and equipment 2,851 Developed technology and other intangible assets 10,853 Goodwill 6,396 Total assets acquired 20,885 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (1,119 ) Less: Deferred revenue (976 ) Net assets acquired $ 18,790 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in operating costs. Goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. Developed technology and other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of five years. IBS’ net revenue of $15.8 million and operating loss of $0.9 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. ETG On May 15, 2014, Nexstar acquired the outstanding equity of Enterprise Technology Group, Inc. (“ETG”), a digital content management firm that offers solutions for media companies to build a presence on the web and in the mobile content sector, for a total purchase price of $7.2 million, funded by cash on hand. The acquisition broadens Nexstar’s digital media portfolio with technologies and offerings that are complementary to Nexstar’s digital businesses and multi-screen strategies. No significant transaction costs relating to this acquisition were incurred during the year ended December 31, 2014. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 433 Accounts receivable 210 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 84 Property and equipment 75 Developed technology and other intangible assets 4,329 Goodwill 4,432 Total assets acquired 9,563 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (368 ) Less: Deferred revenue (219 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (1,792 ) Net assets acquired $ 7,184 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in operating costs. Goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes. Developed technology and other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of five years. ETG’s net revenue of $3.0 million and operating loss of $0.2 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Gray TV/Parker Effective June 13, 2014, Nexstar completed the acquisition of the outstanding equity of WMBB, the ABC affiliate in the Panama City, Florida market, KREX/KREG/KREY, the CBS affiliates and KGJT, the MyNetworkTV affiliate, all in the Grand Junction, Colorado market, from Gray TV for $34.5 million in cash, funded by a combination of proceeds from Nexstar’s term loan borrowings and cash on hand. Both KREG and KREY operate as satellite stations of KREX. This acquisition allows Nexstar entrance into two new markets. Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.1 million, were expensed as incurred during the year ended December 31, 2014. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Accounts receivable $ 1,831 Broadcast rights 98 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 75 Property and equipment 12,513 FCC licenses 5,950 Network affiliation agreements 7,719 Other intangible assets 1,878 Goodwill 4,895 Total assets acquired 34,959 Less: Broadcast rights payable (98 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (361 ) Net assets acquired $ 34,500 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. The goodwill and FCC licenses are deductible for tax purposes. The intangible assets related to the network affiliation agreements are amortized over 15 years. Other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of one year and six months. The acquired stations’ net revenue of $9.8 million and operating income of $3.9 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. On December 18, 2013, Mission entered into a definitive agreement with Excalibur Broadcasting, LLC (“Excalibur”) to acquire Parker, the owner of television station KFQX, the FOX affiliate in the Grand Junction, Colorado market. The acquisition will allow Mission entrance into this market. The FCC has not granted consent to Mission’s acquisition of Parker from Excalibur. On May 27, 2014, Mission and Excalibur terminated their purchase agreement and Mission assumed Excalibur’s rights, title and interest in an existing purchase agreement to acquire Parker for $4.0 million in cash, subject to adjustments for working capital. In connection with this restructuring, Mission paid a deposit of $3.2 million on June 13, 2014. The acquisition is subject to FCC approval and other customary conditions and Mission is expecting it to close during 2016. Mission expects to fund the remaining purchase price through cash generated from operations prior to closing. No significant transaction costs were incurred in connection with this acquisition during the year ended December 31, 2014. Upon Nexstar’s acquisition of KREX, Nexstar assumed the contractual obligations under a TBA with Parker to perform certain sales and other services for KFQX. As discussed in Note 2, Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of the variable interests in Parker and has consolidated this station into its Consolidated Financial Statements beginning June 13, 2014. Nexstar has recorded the following estimated fair values of beginning assets and liabilities of the station (in thousands): FCC licenses $ 1,539 Network affiliation agreements 1,744 Other intangible assets 20 Goodwill 697 Total assets consolidated 4,000 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (13 ) Net assets consolidated $ 3,987 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. Mission will evaluate the tax deductibility of the values assigned to goodwill and FCC licenses upon completion of the acquisition. The intangible asset related to the network affiliation agreements is amortized over 15 years. Other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of 11 months. From the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014, Parker had no significant revenue or operating results. Grant On December 1, 2014, Nexstar completed the acquisition of the outstanding equity of privately-held Grant Company, Inc. (“Grant”), the owner of seven full power television stations in four markets, for $92.4 million in cash, from the Estate of Milton Grant. The stations, along with their respective network affiliation agreements, are WFXR, the FOX affiliate and WWCW, The CW affiliate, both serving the Roanoke, Virginia market, WZDX, the FOX affiliate in the Huntsville, Alabama market, KGCW, The CW affiliate and KLJB, the FOX affiliate, both in the Quad Cities, Iowa market and WLAX/WEUX, the FOX affiliates, in the La Crosse, Wisconsin market. WEUX operates as a satellite station of WLAX. A deposit of $8.5 million was paid by Nexstar in November 2013 upon signing the stock purchase agreement. Nexstar paid $83.1 million at closing funded by a combination of cash on hand and Nexstar’s term loan borrowings. Simultaneous with Nexstar’s acquisition of Grant on December 1, 2014, Nexstar sold the assets of KLJB to Marshall for $15.3 million in cash, and entered into local service agreements to perform certain sales and other services for this station. Marshall funded the purchase price to Nexstar through borrowings from its credit facility. As discussed in Note 2, Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of the variable interests in Marshall and has consolidated this entity into Nexstar’s Consolidated Financial Statements beginning December 1, 2014. Accordingly, the effects of the sale between Nexstar and Marshall have been eliminated in consolidation. The Grant acquisition allows Nexstar entrance into three new markets and creates duopolies in three markets. Transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.3 million, were expensed as incurred during the year ended December 31, 2014. The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Grant acquisition, including the assets and liabilities of KLJB, are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 1,834 Accounts receivable 7,751 Broadcast rights 9,213 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 157 Property and equipment 22,971 FCC licenses 25,531 Network affiliation agreements 27,614 Other intangible assets 3,101 Goodwill 41,246 Other assets 34 Total assets acquired and consolidated 139,452 Less: Broadcast rights payable (10,337 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (4,107 ) Less: Capital lease obligation (4,446 ) Less: Software agreement obligation (562 ) Less: Taxes payable (5,832 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (21,755 ) Net assets acquired and consolidated $ 92,413 In December 2014, the initial purchase price allocation recorded an estimated taxes payable of $6.6 million attributable to the gain on the sale of a station and an estimated deferred tax liabilities of $21.7 million based on the estimated difference between the fair value and the related tax basis of acquired property and equipment and definite-lived intangible assets. In 2015, these calculations were finalized and resulted in a decrease in goodwill and taxes payable of $0.8 million. The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in operating costs. Goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes. The intangible assets related to the network affiliation agreements are amortized over 15 years and other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of five months. The acquired stations’ net revenue of $3.6 million and operating income of $0.3 million from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. 2013 Acquisitions KLRT/KASN (Newport) Effective January 1, 2013, Mission acquired the assets of KLRT, the FOX affiliate, and KASN, the CW affiliate, both in the Little Rock, Arkansas market, from Newport Television LLC and Newport Television License LLC (collectively, “Newport”) for $59.7 million in cash. Pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement, Mission made an initial payment of $6.0 million against the purchase price on July 18, 2012. The remainder of the purchase price was funded by Mission through the proceeds of $60.0 million term loan under its senior secured credit facility. This acquisition allows Mission entrance into this market. The transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional of $0.1 million, were expensed as incurred during the year ended December 31, 2012. No significant transaction costs were incurred in connection with this acquisition during the year ended December 31, 2013. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 2,279 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 71 Property and equipment 11,153 FCC licenses 16,827 Network affiliation agreements 17,002 Other intangible assets 2,511 Goodwill 12,727 Other assets 7 Total assets acquired 62,577 Less: Broadcast rights payable (2,492 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (386 ) Net assets acquired $ 59,699 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. The goodwill and FCC licenses are deductible for tax purposes. The intangible asset related to the network affiliation agreements acquired is amortized over 15 years. Other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of one year. KLRT/KASN’s net revenue of $20.4 million and operating income of $9.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 have been included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE (Newport) Effective February 1, 2013, Nexstar acquired the assets of KGPE, the full power CBS affiliate, in the Fresno, California market, KGET, the full power NBC/The CW affiliate, and KKEY-LP, the low power Telemundo affiliate, both in the Bakersfield, California market, from Newport for $35.4 million in cash, funded by cash on hand and including a $3.5 million deposit paid by Nexstar upon signing the purchase agreement in November 2012. This acquisition allows Nexstar entrance into these markets. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the transaction costs relating to this acquisition, including legal and professional fees of $0.2 million, were expensed as incurred. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 72 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 351 Property and equipment 9,343 FCC licenses 14,318 Network affiliation agreements 9,307 Other intangible assets 1,310 Goodwill 1,077 Total assets acquired 35,778 Less: Broadcast rights payable (72 ) Less: Deferred revenue (57 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (196 ) Net assets acquired $ 35,453 The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. The goodwill and FCC licenses are deductible for tax purposes. The intangible asset related to the network affiliation agreements acquired is amortized over 15 years. Other intangible assets are amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of ten months. KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE’s net revenue of $25.0 million and operating income of $0.3 million

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	4. Property and Equipment Property and equipment consisted of the following, as of December 31 (dollars in thousands): Estimated useful life, in years 2015 2014 Buildings and improvements 39 $ 73,343 $ 65,050 Land N/A 29,765 16,699 Leasehold improvements term of lease 9,616 7,633 Studio and transmission equipment 5-15 339,041 305,075 Computer equipment 3-5 31,731 26,031 Furniture and fixtures 7 10,824 10,097 Vehicles 5 15,811 14,329 Construction in progress N/A 7,680 9,116 517,811 454,030 Less: accumulated depreciation (251,228 ) (216,291 ) Property and equipment, net $ 266,583 $ 237,739 In 2001, entities acquired by the Company sold certain of their telecommunications tower facilities for cash and then entered into noncancelable operating leases with the buyer for tower space. In connection with this transaction, a $9.1 million gain on the sale was deferred and is being recognized over the lease term which expires in May 2021. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the balance of deferred gain included $1.9 million and $2.3 million, respectively, in other noncurrent liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and $0.4 million in other current liabilities as of each of the years then ended. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, costs related to purchases of software of $5.8 million and $4.3 million, respectively, were included in net property and equipment. These assets are being amortized over a weighted average useful life of two years and six months, based on the life of the contracts. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the current portion of the liability associated with these contracts of $3.0 million and $1.6 million, respectively, is included in other current liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the long-term portion of $4.2 million is included in other noncurrent liabilities as of each of the years then ended. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, capital leases of $4.3 million and $4.6 million were included in property and equipment, respectively. The balance of capital lease obligations included $0.1 million in other current liabilities at each of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and $4.4 million and $4.5 million, respectively, in other noncurrent liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Intangible Assets and Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets and Goodwill	5. Intangible Assets and Goodwill Intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following, as of December 31 (in thousands): Estimated 2015 2014 useful life, Accumulated Accumulated in years Gross Amortization Net Gross Amortization Net Network affiliation agreements 15 $ 614,592 $ (338,016 ) $ 276,576 $ 478,888 $ (310,097 ) $ 168,791 Other definite-lived intangible assets 1-15 84,921 (47,136 ) 37,785 52,052 (26,714 ) 25,338 Other intangible assets $ 699,513 $ (385,152 ) $ 314,361 $ 530,940 $ (336,811 ) $ 194,129 The estimated useful life of network affiliation agreements contemplates renewals of the underlying agreements based on the Company’s historical ability to renew such agreements without significant cost or modifications to the conditions from which the value of the affiliation was derived. These renewals can result in estimated useful lives of individual affiliations ranging from 12 to 20 years. Management has determined that 15 years is a reasonable estimate within the range of such estimated useful lives. In the fourth quarter of 2015, management reviewed the recoverability of finite-lived intangible assets attributable to one of Nexstar’s digital media businesses due to current operating losses, anticipated termination of certain customers in 2016 and lower short-term future earnings expectations. Based on the analysis of estimated undiscounted future pre-tax cash flows expected to result from the use of these assets, management determined that its carrying values were recoverable by a substantial margin as of December 31, 2015. No other events or circumstances were noted in 2015 that would indicate impairment. In 2014, no events or circumstances were noted leading management to conclude that impairment testing should be performed on intangible assets subject to amortization. During 2013, certain customers terminated their web hosting and other services agreements with Nexstar. Nexstar acquired these contracts through purchase of the assets in December 2012 and had a total fair value related to these acquired contracts of $1.4 million at acquisition date. Pursuant to the termination agreements, Nexstar received aggregate termination fees of $5.5 million, which was included in net revenue in its Consolidated Statements of Operations during the year ended December 31, 2013. As a result of the contract terminations, Nexstar recognized an additional $1.0 million amortization of intangible assets in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations during the year ended December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2013, the intangible assets associated with the terminated contracts were fully amortized. The following table presents the Company’s estimate of amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter for definite-lived intangibles assets as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 41,917 2017 32,815 2018 27,789 2019 26,044 2020 22,408 Thereafter 163,388 $ 314,361 The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill and FCC licenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): Goodwill FCC Licenses Accumulated Accumulated Gross Impairment Net Gross Impairment Net Balances as of December 31, 2013 $ 244,043 $ (45,991 ) $ 198,052 $ 338,441 $ (49,421 ) $ 289,020 Acquisitions and consolidation of VIEs (See Notes 2 and 3) 58,439 - 58,439 33,020 - 33,020 Balances as of December 31, 2014 302,482 (45,991 ) 256,491 371,461 (49,421 ) 322,040 Acquisitions and consolidation of VIEs (See Notes 2 and 3) 195,171 - 195,171 167,295 - 167,295 Balances as of December 31, 2015 $ 497,653 $ (45,991 ) $ 451,662 $ 538,756 $ (49,421 ) $ 489,335 The Company did not perform interim impairment tests for goodwill or FCC licenses as there were no indicators of impairment during the first three quarters of 2015. In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company performed its annual impairment tests on goodwill and FCC licenses attributable to its broadcast markets and one of Nexstar’s digital reporting units using the qualitative analysis approach and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units and the fair value of FCC licenses would sufficiently exceed their respective carrying amounts. Thus, it was not necessary to perform the quantitative test method. Management elected to perform quantitative impairment tests on one of Nexstar’s digital media reporting units with goodwill of $10.4 million due to current operating losses, anticipated termination of certain customers in 2016 and lower short-term future earnings expectations. The results of the Step 1 process indicated potential impairment in this digital media unit, as the book value of this reporting unit exceeded its estimated fair value. Thus, management performed the Step 2 analysis to quantify the goodwill impairment, if any. The estimated fair value of the reporting unit was allocated to the respective assets and liabilities in order to determine an implied value of goodwill, in a manner similar to the calculations performed in accounting for a business combination. The results of management’s Step 2 analysis indicated that the implied value of goodwill exceeded its book value. Therefore, no goodwill impairment charge was required as of December 31, 2015. The Company performed its annual impairment tests on its assets in 2014 using the qualitative analysis approach and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units and the fair value of FCC licenses would sufficiently exceed their respective carrying amounts and thus it was not necessary to perform the quantitative test method. In 2013, as a result of the termination of certain web hosting services agreements as discussed in intangible assets subject to amortization above, Nexstar assessed the recoverability of one of its reporting units as of September 30, 2013, between the required annual tests, by comparing its estimated fair value with its carrying amount. Based on the results of the step one analysis, management concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount. Therefore, no impairment of goodwill was indicated and Nexstar deemed it not necessary to perform the step two impairment test. The Company’s annual impairment quantitative tests of goodwill and FCC licenses performed as of December 31, 2013 resulted in no impairment charge being recognized.

Accrued Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	6. Accrued Expenses Accrued expenses consisted of the following, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Compensation and related taxes $ 15,810 $ 13,026 Network affiliation fees 22,324 11,010 Other 22,350 12,771 $ 60,484 $ 36,807

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	7. Debt Long-term debt consisted of the following, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Term loans, net of financing costs and discount of $8,715 and $10,823, respectively $ 682,223 $ 695,956 Revolving loans 2,000 5,500 6.875% Senior unsecured notes due 2020, net of financing costs and discount of $5,223 and $6,087, respectively 519,777 518,913 6.125% Senior unsecured notes due 2022, net of financing costs of $2,786 272,214 - 1,476,214 1,220,369 Less: current portion (22,139 ) (15,840 ) $ 1,454,075 $ 1,204,529 As discussed in Note 2, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The guidance requires costs paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. The Company has applied the change in accounting during the third quarter of 2015 with retrospective application to prior periods. As such, the amounts previously reported as other noncurrent assets and debt in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2014 related to term loans and publicly-held notes were decreased by $15.8 million. Nexstar Senior Secured Credit Facility In 2015, Nexstar borrowed a total of $145.0 million under its revolving credit facility. An additional $54.0 million was borrowed from this facility in January and February 2016, net of repayments. These borrowings were used to partially fund the acquisitions discussed in Note 3. Through December 2015, Nexstar repaid $145.0 million outstanding principal balance under its revolving credit facility, funded by cash on hand. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Nexstar senior secured credit facility (the “Nexstar Facility”) had $401.1 million and $410.4 million term loans outstanding, respectively, and no amounts outstanding under its revolving credit facility as of each of the years then ended. The Nexstar Term Loan B-2, which matures in October 2020, is payable in consecutive quarterly installments of 0.25%, with the remainder due at maturity. The Nexstar Term Loan A, which matures in June 2018, is payable in quarterly installments that increase over time from 5.0% to 10.0%, adjusted for any prepayments, with the remainder due at maturity. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Nexstar repaid scheduled maturities of $10.7 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of its term loans. Interest rates are selected at Nexstar’s option and the applicable margin is adjusted quarterly as defined in Nexstar’s amended credit agreement. The interest rate of Nexstar’s Term Loan A was 2.2% and 2.4% as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and the interest rate of Nexstar’s Term Loan B-2 was 3.75% as of each of the years then ended. The interest rate on Nexstar’s revolving credit facility was 2.2% and 2.4% as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Interest is payable periodically based on the type of interest rate selected. Additionally, Nexstar is required to pay quarterly commitment fees on the unused portion of its revolving loan commitment of 0.5% per annum. Mission Senior Secured Credit Facility As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Mission senior secured credit facility (the “Mission Facility”) had $225.6 million and $226.9 million term loans outstanding, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, Mission had $5.5 million outstanding under its revolving credit facility which it fully repaid in January 2015. The Mission Term Loan B-2, which matures in October 2020, is payable in consecutive quarterly installments of 0.25%, with the remainder due at maturity. During each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Mission repaid scheduled maturities of $1.8 million of its term loans. Terms of the Mission Facility, including repayment, maturity and interest rates, are the same as the terms of the Nexstar Facility described above. Interest rates are selected at Mission’s option and the applicable margin is adjusted quarterly as defined in Mission’s amended credit agreement. The interest rate of Mission’s Term Loan B-2 was 3.75% as of each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The interest rate on Mission’s revolving loans was 2.2% and 2.4% as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Marshall Senior Secured Credit Facility As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Marshall senior secured credit facility (the “Marshall Facility”) had $55.5 million and $58.7 million in term loans outstanding, respectively, and $2.0 million and no amounts outstanding under its revolving credit facility, respectively. The Marshall Term Loan A, which matures in June 2018, is payable in quarterly installments that increase over time from 5.0% to 10.0%, with the remainder due at maturity. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Marshall repaid $3.3 million and $0.8 million scheduled maturity of its term loans. Terms of the Marshall Facility, including repayment, maturity and interest rates, are the same as the terms of the Nexstar Facility described above. Interest rates are selected at Marshall’s option and the applicable margin is adjusted quarterly as defined in Marshall’s amended credit agreement. The interest rate on Marshall’s term loan and revolving credit facility was 2.2% and 2.4% as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Unused Commitments and Borrowing Availability The Company had $103.0 million of total unused revolving loan commitments under the respective Nexstar, Mission and Marshall senior secured credit facilities, all of which was available for borrowing, based on the covenant calculations as of December 31, 2015. The Company’s ability to access funds under the senior secured credit facilities depends, in part, on its compliance with certain financial covenants. In January and February 2016, Nexstar borrowed a net amount of $54.0 million under its revolving credit facility to partially finance the WVMH and Reiten acquisitions (See Note 3). On January 27, 2016, Nexstar entered into a definitive merger agreement with Media General, whereby Nexstar will acquire the latter’s outstanding equity for cash and stock consideration, plus potential additional consideration in the form of a CVR. Nexstar has received commitment from a group of commercial banks to provide the debt financing to consummate the merger and refinance certain existing indebtedness of Nexstar, Media General and certain of their variable interest entities up to a maximum of $4.7 billion. With respect to Nexstar and certain of its variable interest entities, the debt refinancing will include the outstanding obligations under the revolving credit facilities and term loans. See Note 3 for additional information on the proposed merger. 6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes On January 29, 2015, Nexstar completed the issuance and sale of $275.0 million 6.125% Notes at par. The 6.125% Notes will mature on February 15, 2022. Interest on the 6.125% Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on February 15 and August 15 of each year commencing on August 15, 2015. The 6.125% Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of January 29, 2015 (the “6.125% Indenture”). The 6.125% Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Nexstar and are guaranteed by Mission and certain of Nexstar’s and Mission’s future 100% owned subsidiaries, subject to certain customary release provisions. The 6.125% Notes are senior obligations of Nexstar and Mission but junior to the secured debt, including the Nexstar Facility, the Mission Facility and the Marshall Facility to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt. The 6.125% Notes rank equal to the 6.875% Notes. Nexstar has the option to redeem all or a portion of the 6.125% Notes at any time prior to February 15, 2018 at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date plus applicable premium as of the date of redemption. At any time on or after February 15, 2018, Nexstar may redeem the 6.125% Notes, in whole or in part, at the redemption prices set forth in the 6.125% Indenture. At any time before February 15, 2018, Nexstar may also redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount at a redemption price of 106.125%, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption, with the net cash proceeds from equity offerings. Upon the occurrence of a change in control (as defined in the 6.125% Indenture), each holder of the 6.125% Notes may require Nexstar to repurchase all or a portion of the 6.125% Notes in cash at a price equal to 101.0% of the aggregate principal amount to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to the date of repurchase. The 6.125% Indenture contains covenants that limit, among other things, Nexstar’s ability to (1) incur additional debt, (2) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchases or redeem its capital stock, (3) make certain investments, (4) create liens, (5) merge or consolidate with another person or transfer or sell assets, (6) enter into restrictions affecting the ability of Nexstar’s restricted subsidiaries to make distributions, loans or advances to it or other restricted subsidiaries; prepay, redeem or repurchase certain indebtedness and (7) engage in transactions with affiliates. The 6.125% Indenture provides for customary events of default (subject in certain cases to customary grace and cure periods), which include nonpayment, breach of covenants in the Indenture, payment defaults or acceleration of other indebtedness, a failure to pay certain judgments and certain events of bankruptcy and insolvency. Generally, if an event of default occurs, the Trustee or holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding 6.125% Notes may declare the principal of and accrued but unpaid interest, including additional interest, on all the 6.125% Notes to be due and payable. In 2015 and 2014, Nexstar recorded $3.0 million and $0.1 million, respectively, in legal, professional and underwriting fees related to the issuance of 6.125% Notes, which were recorded as debt finance costs and amortized over the term of the 6.125% Notes. Debt financing costs are netted against the carrying amount of the related debt. 6.875% Senior Unsecured Notes On November 9, 2012, Nexstar completed the issuance and sale of $250.0 million 6.875% Notes at par. On October 1, 2013, Nexstar completed the sale and issuance of $275.0 million 6.875% Notes at 100.25%, plus accrued interest from May 15, 2013. The proceeds were used to repurchase substantially all of the 8.875% Notes (discussed below) and for related fees and expenses. The 6.875% Notes will mature on November 15, 2020. Interest on the 6.875% Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on May 15 and November 15 of each year. The 6.875% Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of November 9, 2012, and a First Supplemental Indenture (the “6.875% Indenture”), dated as of October 1, 2013. The 6.875% Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Nexstar and are guaranteed by Mission and certain of Nexstar’s and Mission’s future 100% owned subsidiaries, subject to certain customary release provisions. The 6.875% Notes are senior obligations of Nexstar and Mission but junior to the secured debt, including the Nexstar Facility, the Mission Facility and the Mashall Facility, to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt. The 6.875% Notes rank equal to the 6.125% Notes. Nexstar has the option to redeem all or a portion of the 6.875% Notes at any time prior to November 15, 2015 at a price specified in the 6.875% Indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date plus applicable premium as of the date of redemption. At any time before November 15, 2015, Nexstar may also redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the notes at a redemption price of 106.875% plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds from equity offerings. At any time on or after November 15, 2015, Nexstar may redeem 6.875% Notes, in whole or in part, at the redemption dates and redemption prices specified in the 6.875% Indenture. Upon the occurrence of a change of control (as defined in the 6.875% Indenture), each holder of the 6.875% Notes may require Nexstar to repurchase all or a portion of the 6.875% Notes in cash at a price equal to 101.0% of the aggregate principal amount to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to the date of repurchase. The 6.875% Indenture contains covenants that limit, among other things, Nexstar’s ability to (1) incur additional debt, (2) make certain restricted payments, (3) consummate specified asset sales, (4) enter into transactions with affiliates, (5) create liens, (6) pay dividends or make other distributions, (7) repurchase or redeem capital, (8) merge or consolidate with another person and (9) enter new lines of business. The 6.875% Indenture provides for customary events of default (subject in certain cases to customary grace and cure periods), which include nonpayment, breach of covenants in the 6.875% Indenture, payment defaults or acceleration of other indebtedness, a failure to pay certain judgments, certain events of bankruptcy and insolvency and any guarantee of the 6.875% Notes that ceases to be in full force and effect with certain exceptions specified in the 6.875% Indenture. Generally, if an event of default occurs, the Trustee or holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding notes may declare the principal of and accrued but unpaid interest, including additional interest, on all the notes to be due and payable. In 2013 and 2012, Nexstar recorded $3.5 million and $4.7 million, respectively, in legal and professional fees related to the issuance of 6.875% Notes, which were capitalized as debt finance costs and are being amortized over the term of the 6.875% Notes. Debt financing costs are netted against the carrying amount of the related debt. 8.875% Senior Secured Second Lien Notes On April 19, 2010, Nexstar and Mission, as co-issuers, completed the issuance and sale of $325.0 million senior secured second lien notes due 2017 (the “8.875% Notes”). In 2013, Nexstar and Mission repurchased the outstanding principal balance of the 8.875% Notes at an average price of 108.72%, plus accrued and unpaid interest, funded by cash on hand, which resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $34.3 million, representing premiums paid to retire the notes and write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs and debt discounts. Collateralization and Guarantees of Debt The Company’s credit facilities described above are collateralized by a security interest in substantially all the combined assets, excluding FCC licenses and the other assets of consolidated VIEs unavailable to creditors of Nexstar (See Note 2). Nexstar guarantees full payment of all obligations incurred under the Mission Facility and the Marshall Facility in the event of their default. Similarly, Mission, Marshall and Enterprise Technology, LLC (“Enterprise Technology”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar, are guarantors of the Nexstar Facility. Mission is also a guarantor of Nexstar’s 6.875% Notes and 6.125% Notes. Marshall and Enterprise Technology do not guarantee these notes. In consideration of Nexstar’s guarantee of the Mission Facility, Mission has granted Nexstar a purchase option to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent. These option agreements (which expire on various dates between 2017 and 2024) are freely exercisable or assignable by Nexstar without consent or approval by Mission. The Company expects these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration. Debt Covenants The Nexstar amended credit agreement contains covenants which require Nexstar to comply with certain financial covenant ratios, including (1) a maximum consolidated total net leverage ratio of the Company of 6.50 to 1.00 at December 31, 2015, (2) a maximum consolidated first lien net leverage ratio of 4.0 to 1.00 at any time and (3) a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.20 to 1.00 at any time. The covenants, which are formally calculated on a quarterly basis, are based on the combined results of the Company. The Mission and Marshall amended credit agreements do not contain financial covenant ratio requirements, but do provide for default in the event Nexstar does not comply with all covenants contained in its credit agreement. As of December 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with its financial covenants. Fair Value of Debt The aggregate carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s debt were as follows, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value Term loans (1) $ 682,223 $ 678,045 $ 695,956 $ 697,420 Revolving loans (1) 2,000 1,961 5,500 5,386 6.875% Senior unsecured notes (2) 519,777 534,188 518,913 547,313 6.125% Senior unsecured notes (2) 272,214 269,500 - - (1) The fair value of senior secured credit facilities is computed based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities. These fair value measurements are considered Level 3, as significant inputs to the fair value calculation are unobservable in the market. (2) The fair value of Nexstar’s fixed rate debt is estimated based on bid prices obtained from an investment banking firm that regularly makes a market for these financial instruments. These fair value measurements are considered Level 2, as quoted market prices are available for low volume trading of these securities. Debt Maturities The scheduled maturities of the Company’s debt, excluding the unamortized discount and premium and certain debt financing costs, as of December 31, 2015 are summarized as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 22,139 2017 30,094 2018 168,614 2019 4,982 2020 992,109 Thereafter 275,000 $ 1,492,938

Contract Termination

Contract Termination	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Contract Termination [Abstract]
Contract Termination	8. Contract Termination On March 31, 2008, Nexstar signed a ten year agreement for national sales representation with two units of Katz Television Group, a subsidiary of Katz Media Group (“Katz”), transferring 24 stations in 14 of its markets from Petry Television Inc. (“Petry”) and Blair Television Inc. (“Blair”). Nexstar, Blair, Petry and Katz entered into a termination and mutual release agreement under which Blair agreed to release Nexstar from its future contractual obligations in exchange for payments totaling $8.0 million. Katz is making the payments on behalf of Nexstar as an inducement for Nexstar to enter into the long-term contract with Katz. A liability of $7.2 million, representing the present value of the payments Katz is making to Blair, was recorded and is being recognized as a non-cash reduction to operating expenses over the term of the agreement with Katz. Effective May 1, 2009, Nexstar signed another agreement to transfer the remaining Nexstar stations to Katz and its related companies. Moving these contracts resulted in Nexstar cancelling multiple contracts with Blair. As a result, Blair sued the Company for additional termination fees. Katz indemnified the Company for all expenses related to the settlement and defense of this lawsuit. The lawsuit was settled effective May 7, 2010. Termination of these contracts resulted in an additional liability of $0.2 million, which is being recognized over the remaining contract term with Katz. On August 4, 2014, Nexstar signed an agreement for the television stations acquired from Gray TV (See Note 3) transferring the stations’ national representation from Harrington Righter & Parson (“Harrington”) and Petry to Katz. Nexstar, Harrington, Petry and Katz entered into termination and mutual release agreements under which Harrington and Petry agreed to release Nexstar from its future contractual obligations in exchange for total payments of $0.4 million. Katz paid these termination fees on behalf of Nexstar in exchange for entering into a long-term contract with Katz and is being recognized by Nexstar over the remaining contract terms. On February 15, 2015, Nexstar signed an agreement for the television stations acquired from Grant and the KASW station acquired from Meredith and Sagamorehill (See Note 3) transferring the stations’ national representation from Telerep, LLC (”Telerep”) to Katz. Nexstar, Telerep and Katz entered into termination and mutual release agreements under which Telerep agreed to release Nexstar from its future contractual obligations in exchange for a one-time payment of $1.5 million. Katz paid this termination fee on behalf of Nexstar in exchange for entering into a long-term contract with Katz and is being recognized by Nexstar over the remaining contract terms. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the liability associated with these contracts of $1.2 million and $0.8 million, respectively, was included in other current liabilities and $2.2 million was included in other noncurrent liabilities as of each of the years then ended in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company recognized $1.2 million, $0.8 million and $0.8 million of these incentives as a reduction of selling, general and administrative expense during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Common Stock

Common Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Common Stock	9. Common Stock The holders of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share and the holders of Class B common stock are entitled to 10 votes per share. Holders of Class A common stock and Class B common stock generally vote together as a single class on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders. Holders of Class C common stock have no voting rights. The common stockholders are entitled to receive cash dividends, subject to the rights of holders of any series of preferred stock, on an equal per share basis. The Nexstar Facility provides limits on the amounts of dividends the Company may pay to stockholders over the term of the Nexstar Credit Agreement. Pursuant to Nexstar’s dividend policy, the board of directors declared in 2015, 2014 and 2013 total annual cash dividends of $0.76 per share, $0.60 per share and $0.48 per share, respectively, with respect to the outstanding shares of common stock. The dividends were paid in equal quarterly installments. In January 2016, the board of directors declared a quarterly dividend for 2016 beginning in the first quarter. See Note 19 for additional information. In 2013, Nexstar’s former principal stockholder, ABRY Partners, LLC (“ABRY”), converted a total of 7,702,471 shares of outstanding Class B common stock into an equal number of Class A common stock, of which 7,337,087 were sold in various offerings that were completed during that year. The remaining 365,384 shares were repurchased by Nexstar for $8.4 million and were held in treasury. As a result of these transactions, no Class B common stock is outstanding and ABRY no longer holds an ownership interest in Nexstar. During the second half of 2013, Nexstar utilized all of the 365,384 shares held in treasury in connection with stock option exercises. On August 10, 2015, Nexstar announced that its board of directors approved a share repurchase program which authorizes Nexstar to purchase up to $100.0 million of its outstanding shares of Class A common stock. Share repurchases may be made from time to time in open market transactions, block trades or in private transactions. There is no minimum number of shares that is required to be repurchased and the repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice. As of December 31, 2015, Nexstar repurchased a total of 1,010,565 shares of Class A common stock for $48.7 million, funded by cash on hand, of which 17,000 shares have been reissued in connection with stock option exercises.

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation Plans	10. Stock-Based Compensation Plans Stock-Based Compensation Expense The Company measures compensation cost related to stock options based on the grant-date fair value of the awards, calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The compensation cost related to restricted stock units is based on the market price of the stock on the date of the award. The fair value of the stock options and restricted stock units, less estimated forfeitures, is recognized ratably over their respective vesting periods. In 2015, Nexstar granted 200,000 options and 210,000 restricted stock units. In 2014, Nexstar granted 797,500 options and 20,500 restricted stock units. No equity incentives were granted in 2013. The assumptions used in calculating the fair values of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows: 2015 2014 Expected volatility 86.3% 87.0% - 87.2% Risk-free interest rates 1.6% 2.1% - 2.3% Expected life 7 years 7 years Dividend yields 1.6% 1.1% - 1.5% Weighted-average grant date fair value per share $ 31.45 $ 31.87 The expected volatility assumptions used for stock option grants were based on Nexstar’s historical volatility rates over a period approximating the expected life of the options. The expected term assumption is calculated utilizing Nexstar’s historical exercise and post-vesting cancellation experience combined with expectations developed over outstanding options. The risk-free interest rates used are based on the daily U.S. Treasury yield curve rate in effect at the time of the grant having a period commensurate with the expected term assumption. The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense of $11.4 million, $7.6 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, there was $25.8 million of total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to stock options and restricted stock units, expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years. Stock-Based Compensation Plans Nexstar has two stock-based compensation plans that provide for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and performance awards to directors, employees or consultants of Nexstar: the 2015 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan, approved by Nexstar’s majority stockholders on June 11, 2015 (the “2015 Plan”) and the 2012 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan, approved by Nexstar’s majority stockholders on September 26, 2012 (the “2012 Plan”). A maximum of 2,500,000 shares and 1,500,000 shares of Nexstar’s Class A common stock can be issued under the 2015 Plan and the 2012 Plan, respectively. No new awards are granted under equity incentive plans prior to these plans but any unissued available shares can be issued under the 2012 Plan. As of December 31, 2015, a total of 2,490,000 shares and 35,000 shares were available for future grants under the 2015 Plan and the 2012 Plan, respectively. Under Nexstar’s equity incentive plans, options to purchase 2,443,591 shares of Nexstar’s Class A common stock were outstanding and 225,375 restricted stock units were unvested as of December 31, 2015. Options are granted with an exercise price at least equal to the fair market value of the underlying shares of common stock on the date of the grant, vest over a range of four to five years and expire ten years from the date of grant. Except as otherwise determined by the compensation committee or with respect to the termination of a participant’s services in certain circumstances, including a change of control, no option may be exercised within six months of the date of the grant. Upon the employee’s termination, all nonvested options are forfeited immediately and any unexercised vested options are cancelled from 30 to 180 days following the termination date. The restricted stock units vest over four years from the date of the award. All unvested restricted stock units are forfeited immediately upon the employee’s termination for any reason other than change of control. Nexstar utilizes any available treasury stock or issues new shares of its Class A common stock when options are exercised or restricted stock units vest. The following table summarizes stock award activity and related information for all of Nexstar’s Equity Plans for the year ended December 31, 2015: Outstanding Options Non-Vested Options Restricted Stock Units Weighted- Weighted- Average Aggregate Weighted- Weighted- Shares Average Remaining Intrinsic Average Average Available Exercise Contractual Value (1) Grant-Date Unvested Grant-Date for Grant Shares Price Term (Years) (thousands) Shares Fair Value Shares Fair Value Balances as of December 31, 2014 397,500 2,742,275 $ 17.61 1,287,000 $ 21.48 20,500 $ 44.58 2015 Plan shares approved 2,500,000 Options granted (200,000 ) 200,000 $ 47.11 200,000 $ 31.45 - - Restricted stock units awarded (210,000 ) - - - - 210,000 $ 45.78 Exercised - (461,184 ) $ 7.28 - - - - Vested - - - (478,250 ) $ 16.63 (5,125 ) $ 44.58 Forfeited/cancelled 37,500 (37,500 ) $ 46.03 (35,625 ) $ 31.96 - - Balances as of December 31, 2015 2,525,000 2,443,591 $ 21.54 6.31 $ 90,807 973,125 $ 25.53 225,375 $ 45.69 Exercisable as of December 31, 2015 1,470,466 $ 11.39 5.26 $ 69,571 Fully vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2015 2,422,963 $ 21.38 6.30 $ 90,424 (1) Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the closing market price of Nexstar’s common stock on the last day of the fiscal period, which was $58.70 on December 31, 2015, and the stock option exercise prices multiplied by the number of options outstanding. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised, on their respective exercise dates, was $22.8 million, $26.5 million and $44.5 million, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the aggregate fair value of options vested was $8.0 million, $2.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	11. Income Taxes The income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following components for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Current tax expense (benefit): Federal $ (108 ) $ 402 $ (681 ) State 5,120 2,230 480 5,012 2,632 (201 ) Deferred tax expense (benefit): Federal 43,772 38,176 2,069 State (97 ) 5,293 732 43,675 43,469 2,801 Income tax expense $ 48,687 $ 46,101 $ 2,600 The income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% to the income before income taxes. The sources and tax effects of the differences were as follows, for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Income tax expense at 35% statutory federal rate $ 43,774 $ 38,752 $ 285 State and local taxes, net of federal benefit 3,315 5,373 599 Nondeductible compensation 652 690 479 Nondeductible acquisition costs 251 342 611 Nondeductible meals and entertainment 417 381 321 Other 278 563 305 Income tax expense $ 48,687 $ 46,101 $ 2,600 The components of the net deferred tax asset (liability) were as follows, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss carryforwards $ 69,547 $ 106,890 Compensation 10,918 7,459 Rent 3,418 3,288 Other 9,352 6,055 Total deferred tax assets 93,235 123,692 Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment (13,106 ) (9,528 ) Other intangible assets (46,983 ) (18,933 ) Goodwill (29,872 ) (24,352 ) FCC licenses (89,438 ) (58,197 ) Other (13 ) (114 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (179,412 ) (111,124 ) Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $ (86,177 ) $ 12,568 During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, there were no changes to the gross unrecognized tax benefit of $3.7 million. If the gross unrecognized tax benefit were recognized, it would result in a favorable effect on the Company’s effective tax rate. The Company does not expect the amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly change in the next twelve months. Interest expense and penalties related to the Company’s uncertain tax positions would be reflected as a component of income tax (benefit) expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company did not accrue interest on the unrecognized tax benefits as an unfavorable outcome upon examination would not result in a cash outlay but would reduce net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”). The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. The Company is subject to U.S. federal tax examinations for years after 2011. Additionally, any NOLs that were generated in prior years and utilized in the current year or future years may also be subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. State jurisdictions that remain subject to examination are not considered significant. As a result of certain realization requirements of ASC 718, the table of deferred tax assets and liabilities shown above does not include certain deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 that arose directly from tax deductions related to equity compensation in excess of compensation recognized for financial reporting. Equity will be increased by $13.2 million if and when such deferred tax assets are ultimately realized. The Company uses tax law ordering when determining when excess tax benefits have been realized. The Company has gross federal and state income tax NOL carryforwards of $222.0 million and $105.8 million, respectively, which are available to reduce future taxable income if utilized before their expiration. The federal NOL carryforwards include excess tax benefits not recognized under GAAP as noted above. The federal NOLs expire through 2033 if not utilized. Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, generally imposes an annual limitation on the amount of NOLs that may be used to offset taxable income when a corporation has undergone significant changes in stock ownership. Ownership changes are evaluated as they occur and could limit the ability to use NOLs. In May 2013, ABRY sold 3,865,384 shares of common stock and it no longer has any ownership interest in Nexstar. As a result of this sale, an ownership change occurred resulting in a Section 382 limitation on the use of Nexstar’s NOLs. The sale of common stock by ABRY did not impact Mission. The Company expects to be able to utilize its existing NOLs prior to their expiration. Nexstar’s estimated annual Section 382 limitation following the ownership change is $181.8 million for 2016, $91.2 million for 2017, $45.4 million for 2018 and $20.9 million for 2019 and annually thereafter. In addition, any subsequent ownership changes could result in additional limitations. The ability to use NOLs is also dependent upon the Company’s ability to generate taxable income. The NOLs could expire before the Company generates sufficient taxable income. To the extent the Company’s use of NOLs is significantly limited, the Company’s income could be subject to corporate income tax earlier than it would if it were able to use NOLs, which could have a negative effect on the Company’s financial results and operations. Changes in ownership are largely beyond the Company’s control and the Company can give no assurance that it will continue to have realizable NOLs.

FCC Regulatory Matters

FCC Regulatory Matters	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Risks And Uncertainties [Abstract]
FCC Regulatory Matters	12. FCC Regulatory Matters Television broadcasting is subject to the jurisdiction of the FCC under the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the “Communications Act”). The Communications Act prohibits the operation of television broadcasting stations except under a license issued by the FCC, and empowers the FCC, among other things, to issue, revoke, and modify broadcasting licenses, determine the location of television stations, regulate the equipment used by television stations, adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of the Communications Act and impose penalties for the violation of such regulations. The FCC’s ongoing rule making proceedings could have a significant future impact on the television industry and on the operation of the Company’s stations and the stations to which it provides services. In addition, the U.S. Congress may act to amend the Communications Act or adopt other legislation in a manner that could impact the Company’s stations, the stations to which it provides services and the television broadcast industry in general. The FCC has adopted rules with respect to the final conversion of existing low power and television translator stations to digital operations, which must be completed within 51 months after the completion of the broadcast television incentive auction. Media Ownership The FCC is required to review its media ownership rules every four years and to eliminate those rules it finds no longer serve the “public interest, convenience and necessity.” In March 2014, the FCC initiated its 2014 quadrennial review with the adoption of a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (“FNPRM”). The FNPRM incorporates the record of the uncompleted 2010 quadrennial review proceeding and solicits comment on proposed changes to the media ownership rules. Among the proposals in the FNPRM are (1) retention of the current local television ownership rule (but with modifications to certain service contour definitions to conform to digital television broadcasting), (2) elimination of the radio/television cross-ownership rule, (3) elimination of the newspaper/radio cross-ownership rule, and (4) retention of the newspaper/television cross-ownership rule, while considering waivers of that rule in certain circumstances. The FNPRM also proposes to define a category of sharing agreements designated as SSAs between television stations, and to require television stations to disclose those SSAs. Comments and reply comments on the FNPRM were filed in the third quarter of 2014. Concurrently with its adoption of the FNPRM, the FCC also adopted a rule making television JSAs attributable to the seller of advertising time in certain circumstances. Under this rule, where a party owns a full-power television station in a market and sells more than 15% of the weekly advertising time for another, non-owned station in the same market under a JSA, that party is deemed to have an attributable interest in the latter station for purposes of the local television ownership rule. Parties to newly attributable JSAs that do not comply with the local television ownership rule were given two years to modify or terminate their JSAs to come into compliance. However, subsequent federal legislation extended the JSA compliance deadline until September 30, 2025. Various parties, including Nexstar (and Mission, which has intervened), have appealed this new rule to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, which in November 2015 transferred the case to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. If Nexstar is required to amend or terminate its existing agreements with Mission and others, the Company could have a reduction in revenue and could incur increased costs if it is unable to successfully implement alternative arrangements that are as beneficial as the existing JSAs. Spectrum The FCC is seeking to make additional spectrum available to meet future wireless broadband needs. In February 2012, the U.S. Congress adopted legislation authorizing the FCC to conduct an incentive auction whereby television broadcasters could voluntarily relinquish their spectrum in exchange for consideration. The FCC has released various orders and public notices which set forth procedures that the FCC will follow in the incentive auction and the subsequent “repacking” of broadcast television spectrum, establish opening prices for television stations to relinquish their spectrum, and resolve various technical and other issues related to the incentive auction, the possible sharing of channels by television stations, and the repurposing of television spectrum for broadband use. The FCC has announced March 29, 2016 as the commencement date for the incentive auction. January 12, 2016 was the deadline for potentially interested television licensees to file applications to participate in the incentive auction, and Nexstar and certain of its local service agreement partners filed such applications. The reallocation of television spectrum for wireless broadband use will require many television stations to change channel or otherwise modify their technical facilities. The reallocation of television spectrum to broadband use may be to the detriment of the Company’s investment in digital facilities, could require substantial additional investment to continue current operations, and may require viewers to invest in additional equipment or subscription services to continue receiving broadcast television signals. The Company cannot predict the results of television spectrum reallocation efforts or the impact to its business. Retransmission Consent On March 3, 2011, the FCC initiated a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to reexamine its rules (i) governing the requirements for good faith negotiations between multichannel video program distributors (“MVPDs”) and broadcasters, including implementing a prohibition on one station negotiating retransmission consent terms for another station under a local service agreement; (ii) for providing advance notice to consumers in the event of dispute; and (iii) to extend certain cable-only obligations to all MVPDs. The FCC also asked for comment on eliminating the network non-duplication and syndicated exclusivity protection rules, which may permit MVPDs to import out-of-market television stations during a retransmission consent dispute. In March 2014, the FCC adopted a rule that prohibits joint retransmission consent negotiation between television stations in the same market which are not commonly owned and which are ranked among the top four stations in the market in terms of audience share. On December 5, 2014, federal legislation extended the joint negotiation prohibition to all non-commonly owned television stations in a market. This new rule requires Nexstar, Mission and other independent third parties with which Nexstar has local service agreements to separately negotiate retransmission consent agreements for certain of their stations. The December 2014 legislation also directed the FCC to commence a rulemaking to “review its totality of the circumstances test for good faith [retransmission consent] negotiations.” The FCC commenced this proceeding in September 2015, and comments and reply comments have been submitted and the Company cannot predict its outcome. Concurrently with its adoption of the prohibition on certain joint retransmission consent negotiations, the FCC also adopted a further notice of proposed rulemaking which seeks additional comment on the elimination or modification of the network non-duplication and syndicated exclusivity rules. The FCC’s prohibition on certain joint retransmission consent negotiations and its possible elimination or modification of the network non-duplication and syndicated exclusivity protection rules may affect the Company’s ability to sustain its current level of retransmission consent revenues or grow such revenues in the future and could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. The Company cannot predict the resolution of the FCC’s network non-duplication and syndicated exclusivity proposals, or the impact of these proposals or the FCC’s new prohibition on certain joint negotiations, on its business. Further, certain online video distributors and other over-the-top video distributors (“OTTDs”) have begun streaming broadcast programming over the Internet. In June 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court held that an OTTD’s retransmissions of broadcast television signals without the consent of the broadcast station violate copyright holders’ exclusive right to perform their works publicly as provided under the Copyright Act. In December 2014, the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to interpret the term “MVPD” to encompass OTTDs that make available for purchase multiple streams of video programming distributed at a prescheduled time, and seeking comment on the effects of applying MVPD rules to such OTTDs. Comments and reply comments were filed in the first and second quarters of 2015 and the Company cannot predict the outcome of the proceeding. However, if the FCC ultimately determines that an OTTD is not an MVPD, or declines to apply certain rules governing MVPDs to OTTDs, our business and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	13. Commitments and Contingencies Broadcast Rights Commitments Broadcast rights acquired for cash under license agreements are recorded as an asset and a corresponding liability at the inception of the license period. Future minimum payments for license agreements for which the license period has not commenced and no asset or liability has been recorded are as follows as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 12,313 2017 9,336 2018 4,952 2019 2,963 2020 869 Thereafter 1,438 $ 31,871 Operating Leases The Company leases office space, vehicles, towers, antenna sites, studio and other operating equipment under noncancelable operating lease arrangements expiring through December 2053. Rent expense recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations for such leases was $12.0 million, $7.1 million and $6.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Future minimum lease payments under these operating leases are as follows as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 10,459 2017 10,367 2018 9,608 2019 7,840 2020 7,708 Thereafter 20,506 $ 66,488 Capital Leases The Company leases certain equipment and tower facilities under noncancelable lease arrangements. These contracts were accounted for as capital leases and included in property and equipment (See Note 4). The future minimum lease payments under these agreements as of December 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 361 2017 331 2018 315 2019 328 2020 341 Thereafter 6,333 8,009 Less: Amount representing interest 3,487 $ 4,522 Guarantee of Mission and Marshall Debt Nexstar and its subsidiaries guarantee full payment of all obligations incurred under the Mission Facility and the Marshall Facility. In the event that Mission and/or Marshall are unable to repay amounts due, Nexstar will be obligated to repay such amounts. The maximum potential amount of future payments that Nexstar would be required to make under these guarantees would be generally limited to the borrowings outstanding. As of December 31, 2015, Mission had a maximum commitment of $233.6 million under its senior secured credit facility, of which $225.6 million of debt was outstanding, and Marshall had used all its commitment under its senior secured credit facility and had outstanding obligations of $57.5 million. Indemnification Obligations In connection with certain agreements that the Company enters into in the normal course of its business, including local service agreements, business acquisitions and borrowing arrangements, the Company enters into contractual arrangements under which the Company agrees to indemnify the third party to such arrangement from losses, claims and damages incurred by the indemnified party for certain events as defined within the particular contract. Such indemnification obligations may not be subject to maximum loss clauses and the maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these indemnification arrangements may be unlimited. Historically, payments made related to these indemnifications have been insignificant and the Company has not incurred significant costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification agreements. Collective Bargaining Agreements As of December 31, 2015, certain technical, production and news employees at six of the Company’s stations are covered by collective bargaining agreements. The Company believes that employee relations are satisfactory and has not experienced any work stoppages at any of its stations. However, there can be no assurance that the collective bargaining agreements will be renewed in the future or that the Company will not experience a prolonged labor dispute, which could have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, or results of operations. Litigation From time to time, the Company is involved with claims that arise out of the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, any resulting liability with respect to these claims would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

Segment Data

Segment Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Data	14. Segment Data The Company evaluates the performance of its operating segments based on net revenue and operating income. The Company’s broadcast segment includes television stations and related community focused websites that Nexstar owns, operates, programs or provides sales and other services to in various markets across the United States. The other activities of the Company include corporate functions, eliminations and other insignificant operations. Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2015 Broadcasting Other Consolidated Net revenue $ 846,926 $ 49,451 $ 896,377 Depreciation 41,053 6,169 47,222 Amortization of intangible assets 35,845 12,630 48,475 Income from operations 266,919 (60,812 ) 206,107 Goodwill 412,965 38,697 451,662 Assets 1,660,737 174,397 1,835,134 Year ended December 31, 2014 Broadcasting Other Consolidated Net revenue $ 609,668 $ 21,643 $ 631,311 Depreciation 31,564 3,483 35,047 Amortization of intangible assets 21,932 3,918 25,850 Income from operations 216,724 (43,487 ) 173,237 Goodwill 245,665 10,826 256,491 Assets 1,136,474 277,628 1,414,102 Year ended December 31, 2013 Broadcasting Other Consolidated Net revenue $ 492,789 $ 9,541 $ 502,330 Depreciation 29,901 3,677 33,578 Amortization of intangible assets 27,235 2,913 30,148 Income from operations 131,865 (28,624 ) 103,241

Condensed Consolidating Financi

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Information Of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidating Financial Information	15. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information The following condensed consolidating financial information presents the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company, including its wholly-owned subsidiaries and its consolidated VIEs. This information is presented in lieu of separate financial statements and other related disclosures pursuant to Regulation S-X Rule 3-10 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, “Financial Statements of Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities Registered or Being Registered.” On July 6, 2015, Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. (“Nexstar Holdings”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., merged with and into its parent company with the latter remaining as the surviving corporation. As a result of this merger, Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. (“Nexstar Broadcasting”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar Holdings and issuer of the 6.875% Notes and the 6.125% Notes, became a direct subsidiary of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. Nexstar Holdings was not a guarantor of either the 6.875% Notes or the 6.125% Notes prior to the merger. On July 7, 2015, Nexstar created the wholly-owned Enterprise Technology and contributed certain digital media business assets and liabilities of Nexstar Broadcasting to this entity. Enterprise Technology is not a guarantor of either the 6.875% Notes or the 6.125% Notes. The Nexstar column presents the parent company’s financial information, excluding consolidating entities. The Nexstar Broadcasting column presents its financial information. The Mission column presents the financial information of Mission, an entity which Nexstar Broadcasting is required to consolidate as a VIE (see Note 2). The Non-Guarantors column presents the combined financial information of Enterprise Technology and other VIEs consolidated by Nexstar Broadcasting (See Note 2). The following Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements have been retrospectively adjusted to present all periods as if the Nexstar Holdings merger and the contribution to Enterprise Technology had previously occurred. Additionally, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs and deferred tax assets and liabilities in the condensed balance sheet. The guidance requires costs paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. Additionally, all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, should be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. As such, the amounts previously reported as other current assets, other noncurrent assets, debt and other noncurrent liabilities as of December 31, 2014 were decreased by $41.7 million, $6.4 million, $15.8 million and $32.3 million, respectively. Nexstar Broadcasting’s outstanding 6.875% Notes and 6.125% Notes (See Note 7) are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by Nexstar and Mission, subject to certain customary release provisions. These notes are not guaranteed by any other entities. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ - $ 27,492 $ 4,361 $ 11,563 $ - $ 43,416 Accounts receivable - 163,008 9,370 20,613 - 192,991 Amounts due from consolidated entities - 10,600 51,978 - (62,578 ) - Other current assets - 19,984 1,364 2,273 - 23,621 Total current assets - 221,084 67,073 34,449 (62,578 ) 260,028 Investments in subsidiaries 184,332 38,931 - - (223,263 ) - Amounts due from consolidated entities - 133,659 - - (133,659 ) - Property and equipment, net - 232,206 21,891 12,486 - 266,583 Goodwill - 343,140 32,489 76,033 - 451,662 FCC licenses - 415,024 41,563 32,748 - 489,335 Other intangible assets, net - 228,936 18,892 66,533 - 314,361 Other noncurrent assets - 30,539 20,418 2,208 - 53,165 Total assets $ 184,332 $ 1,643,519 $ 202,326 $ 224,457 $ (419,500 ) $ 1,835,134 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ - $ 15,154 $ 2,335 $ 4,650 $ - $ 22,139 Accounts payable - 14,705 906 10,325 25,936 Amounts due to consolidated entities - 47,700 - 14,878 (62,578 ) - Other current liabilities - 78,868 6,909 12,209 - 97,986 Total current liabilities - 156,427 10,150 42,062 (62,578 ) 146,061 Debt - 1,177,944 223,235 52,896 - 1,454,075 Amounts due to consolidated entities 63,309 - - 70,350 (133,659 ) - Other noncurrent liabilities - 118,048 9,351 21,226 - 148,625 Total liabilities 63,309 1,452,419 242,736 186,534 (196,237 ) 1,748,761 Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit) 121,023 191,100 (40,410 ) 32,224 (223,263 ) 80,674 Noncontrolling interests in consolidated variable interest entities - - - 5,699 - 5,699 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 184,332 $ 1,643,519 $ 202,326 $ 224,457 $ (419,500 ) $ 1,835,134 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET As of December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ - $ 130,472 $ 880 $ 560 $ - $ 131,912 Accounts receivable - 118,321 6,895 2,662 - 127,878 Amounts due from consolidated entities - 844 29,867 - (30,711 ) - Other current assets - 13,055 1,726 1,356 - 16,137 Total current assets - 262,692 39,368 4,578 (30,711 ) 275,927 Investments in subsidiaries 125,076 - - - (125,076 ) - Amounts due from consolidated entities - 46,582 - - (46,582 ) - Property and equipment, net - 207,286 24,166 6,287 - 237,739 Goodwill - 210,355 32,489 13,647 - 256,491 FCC licenses - 275,313 41,563 5,164 - 322,040 Other intangible assets, net - 148,381 21,310 24,438 - 194,129 Other noncurrent assets - 51,625 30,368 45,783 - 127,776 Total assets $ 125,076 $ 1,202,234 $ 189,264 $ 99,897 $ (202,369 ) $ 1,414,102 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ - $ 10,703 $ 1,837 $ 3,300 $ - $ 15,840 Accounts payable - 15,338 907 986 - 17,231 Amounts due to consolidated entities - 29,026 - 1,685 (30,711 ) - Other current liabilities - 55,116 5,806 3,273 - 64,195 Total current liabilities - 110,183 8,550 9,244 (30,711 ) 97,266 Debt - 918,607 230,556 55,366 - 1,204,529 Amounts due to consolidated entities 13,763 - - 32,819 (46,582 ) - Other noncurrent liabilities - 45,743 8,667 1,360 - 55,770 Total liabilities 13,763 1,074,533 247,773 98,789 (77,293 ) 1,357,565 Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit) 111,313 127,701 (58,509 ) (2,892 ) (125,076 ) 52,537 Noncontrolling interest in a consolidated variable interest entity - - - 4,000 - 4,000 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 125,076 $ 1,202,234 $ 189,264 $ 99,897 $ (202,369 ) $ 1,414,102 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter) $ - $ 759,694 $ 51,132 $ 85,551 $ - $ 896,377 Revenue between consolidated entities - 25,854 37,000 12,132 (74,986 ) - Net revenue - 785,548 88,132 97,683 (74,986 ) 896,377 Operating expenses: Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 233,530 24,601 44,130 (4 ) 302,257 Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 213,415 3,536 19,660 (4,131 ) 232,480 Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities - 44,997 9,780 16,074 (70,851 ) - Amortization of broadcast rights - 49,044 5,766 5,026 - 59,836 Amortization of intangible assets - 29,312 2,418 16,745 - 48,475 Depreciation - 41,833 2,435 2,954 - 47,222 Total operating expenses - 612,131 48,536 104,589 (74,986 ) 690,270 Income (loss) from operations - 173,417 39,596 (6,906 ) - 206,107 Interest expense, net - (69,649 ) (9,325 ) (1,546 ) - (80,520 ) Other expenses - (517 ) - - - (517 ) Equity in income of subsidiaries 59,256 - - - (59,256 ) - Income (loss) before income taxes 59,256 103,251 30,271 (8,452 ) (59,256 ) 125,070 Income tax (expense) benefit - (39,851 ) (12,172 ) 3,336 - (48,687 ) Net income (loss) 59,256 63,400 18,099 (5,116 ) (59,256 ) 76,383 Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests - - - 1,301 - 1,301 Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar $ 59,256 $ 63,400 $ 18,099 $ (3,815 ) $ (59,256 ) $ 77,684 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter) $ - $ 572,368 $ 36,498 $ 22,445 $ - $ 631,311 Revenue between consolidated entities - 10,012 42,079 249 (52,340 ) - Net revenue - 582,380 78,577 22,694 (52,340 ) 631,311 Operating expenses: Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 157,988 18,135 11,309 - 187,432 Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 160,186 3,188 12,240 (185 ) 175,429 Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities - 42,079 9,780 296 (52,155 ) - Amortization of broadcast rights - 28,365 5,844 107 - 34,316 Amortization of intangible assets - 19,147 2,728 3,975 - 25,850 Depreciation - 30,897 2,760 1,390 - 35,047 Total operating expenses - 438,662 42,435 29,317 (52,340 ) 458,074 Income (loss) from operations - 143,718 36,142 (6,623 ) - 173,237 Interest expense, net - (51,804 ) (10,014 ) (141 ) - (61,959 ) Loss on extinguishment of debt - (50 ) (21 ) - - (71 ) Other expenses - (556 ) - - - (556 ) Equity in income of subsidiaries 23,225 - - - (23,225 ) - Income (loss) before income taxes 23,225 91,308 26,107 (6,764 ) (23,225 ) 110,651 Income tax (expense) benefit - (38,558 ) (10,023 ) 2,480 - (46,101 ) Net income (loss) $ 23,225 $ 52,750 $ 16,084 $ (4,284 ) $ (23,225 ) $ 64,550 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter) $ - $ 463,817 $ 28,971 $ 9,542 $ - $ 502,330 Revenue between consolidated entities - 9,740 39,513 1,627 (50,880 ) - Net revenue - 473,557 68,484 11,169 (50,880 ) 502,330 Operating expenses: Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 131,991 14,550 1,170 - 147,711 Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 145,726 3,235 4,879 (1,627 ) 152,213 Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities - 39,513 9,740 - (49,253 ) - Amortization of broadcast rights - 29,405 6,034 - - 35,439 Amortization of intangible assets - 20,622 6,762 2,764 - 30,148 Depreciation - 29,684 3,535 359 - 33,578 Total operating expenses - 396,941 43,856 9,172 (50,880 ) 399,089 Income from operations - 76,616 24,628 1,997 - 103,241 Interest expense, net - (50,062 ) (16,181 ) - - (66,243 ) Loss on extinguishment of debt - (20,392 ) (14,332 ) - - (34,724 ) Other expenses - (1,157 ) (302 ) - - (1,459 ) Equity in income of subsidiaries 1,961 - - - (1,961 ) - Income (loss) before income taxes 1,961 5,005 (6,187 ) 1,997 (1,961 ) 815 Income tax (expense) benefit - (4,260 ) 2,441 (781 ) - (2,600 ) Net income (loss) $ 1,961 $ 745 $ (3,746 ) $ 1,216 $ (1,961 ) $ (1,785 ) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Cash flows from operating activities $ - $ 163,476 $ 10,934 $ 22,856 $ - $ 197,266 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment - (26,636 ) (258 ) (2,303 ) 176 (29,021 ) Deposits and payments for acquisitions - (510,701 ) - (8,548 ) 43,300 (475,949 ) Proceeds from sale of stations - 70,305 - - (43,300 ) 27,005 Other investing activities - 3,450 150 200 (176 ) 3,624 Net cash used in investing activities - (463,582 ) (108 ) (10,651 ) - (474,341 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from long-term debt - 419,950 - 2,000 - 421,950 Repayments of long-term debt - (155,653 ) (7,337 ) (3,300 ) - (166,290 ) Common stock dividends paid (23,686 ) - - - - (23,686 ) Purchase of treasury stock (48,660 ) - - - - (48,660 ) Inter-company payments 68,989 (68,989 ) - - - - Other financing activities 3,357 1,818 (8 ) 98 - 5,265 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities - 197,126 (7,345 ) (1,202 ) - 188,579 Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents - (102,980 ) 3,481 11,003 - (88,496 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period - 130,472 880 560 - 131,912 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ - $ 27,492 $ 4,361 $ 11,563 $ - $ 43,416 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Cash flows from operating activities $ - $ 166,915 $ (1,928 ) $ 1,540 $ - $ 166,527 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment - (18,826 ) (236 ) (1,327 ) - (20,389 ) Deposits and payments for acquisitions - (163,533 ) (3,200 ) (58,300 ) 15,300 (209,733 ) Proceeds from sale of a station - 15,300 - - (15,300 ) - Other investing activities - 89 - - - 89 Net cash used in investing activities - (166,970 ) (3,436 ) (59,627 ) - (230,033 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from long-term debt - 171,925 5,500 59,850 - 237,275 Repayments of long-term debt - (68,849 ) (2,832 ) (750 ) - (72,431 ) Common stock dividends paid (18,445 ) - - - - (18,445 ) Inter-company payments 16,414 (16,414 ) - - - - Other financing activities 2,031 7,553 (140 ) (453 ) - 8,991 Net - 94,215 2,528 58,647 - 155,390 Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents - 94,160 (2,836 ) 560 - 91,884 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period - 36,312 3,716 - - 40,028 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ - $ 130,472 $ 880 $ 560 $ - $ 131,912 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Cash flows from operating activities $ - $ 18,749 $ 4,428 $ 1,245 $ 2,917 $ 27,339 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment - (17,545 ) (165 ) (1,245 ) - (18,955 ) Deposits and payments for acquisitions - (169,874 ) (59,508 ) - - (229,382 ) Other investing activities - 56 3,080 - (2,917 ) 219 Net cash used in investing activities - (187,363 ) (56,593 ) (1,245 ) (2,917 ) (248,118 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from long-term debt - 459,563 195,000 - - 654,563 Repayments of long-term debt - (300,825 ) (138,010 ) - - (438,835 ) Common stock dividends paid (14,302 ) - - - - (14,302 ) Purchase of treasury stock (8,422 ) - - - - (8,422 ) Inter-company payments 15,765 (15,765 ) - - - - Other financing activities 6,959 (6,728 ) (1,427 ) - - (1,196 ) Net - 136,245 55,563 - - 191,808 Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents - (32,369 ) 3,398 - - (28,971 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period - 68,681 318 - - 68,999 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ - $ 36,312 $ 3,716 $ - $ - $ 40,028

Employee Benefits

Employee Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefits	16. Employee Benefits The Company has established retirement savings plans under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Plans”). The Plans cover substantially all Company employees who meet the minimum age and service requirements, and allow participants to defer a portion of their annual compensation on a pre-tax basis. Employer contributions to the Plans may be made at the discretion of management of the Company. During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, Nexstar contributed $1.3 million, $1.0 million and $0.8 million, respectively, to the Plans. Under a collective bargaining agreement, the Company previously contributed three percent of the gross monthly payroll of certain covered employees toward their pension benefits. In 2015, the Company and its eligible employees no longer make contributions under the collective bargaining agreement. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company’s pension benefit contribution totaled $17 thousand and $21 thousand, respectively.

Unaudited Quarterly Data

Unaudited Quarterly Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Unaudited Quarterly Data	17. Unaudited Quarterly Data Three Months Ended March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, 2015 2015 2015 2015 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Net revenue (1) $ 201,735 $ 219,349 $ 223,031 $ 252,262 Income from operations 37,904 52,542 48,315 67,346 Income before income taxes 18,493 32,001 27,804 46,772 Net income attributable to Nexstar 12,907 20,321 17,282 27,174 Basic net income per common share $ 0.41 $ 0.65 $ 0.55 $ 0.89 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 31,196 31,325 31,262 30,622 Diluted net income per common share $ 0.40 $ 0.63 $ 0.54 $ 0.86 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 32,256 32,382 32,151 31,580 (1) During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations. Three Months Ended March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, 2014 2014 2014 2014 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Net revenue $ 133,833 $ 146,930 $ 157,744 $ 192,804 Income from operations 27,700 34,942 41,696 68,899 Income before income taxes 12,402 19,405 25,994 52,850 Net income 7,353 10,944 15,404 30,849 Basic net income per common share $ 0.24 $ 0.36 $ 0.50 $ 1.00 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 30,603 30,641 30,888 30,962 Diluted net income per common share $ 0.23 $ 0.34 $ 0.48 $ 0.96 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 31,909 31,932 32,067 32,102

Valuation and Qualifying Accoun

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	18. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Rollforward Additions Balance at Charged to Balance at Beginning Costs and End of of Period Expenses Deductions (1) Period Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 3,002 $ 3,443 $ (1,076 ) $ 5,369 Year Ended December 31, 2014 3,035 2,604 (2,637 ) 3,002 Year Ended December 31, 2013 1,965 2,697 (1,627 ) 3,035 (1) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	19. Subsequent Events On January 4, 2016, Nexstar acquired WVMH’s stations’ assets excluding certain transmission equipment, the FCC licenses and network affiliation in connection with the purchase agreement signed in November 2015. The purchase was funded by a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under Nexstar’s revolving credit facility. See Notes 3 and 7 for additional information. On January 21, 2016, Nexstar’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.24 per share of its Class A common stock. The dividend was paid on February 26, 2016 to stockholders of record on February 12, 2016. On January 27, 2016, Nexstar entered into a definitive merger agreement with Media General whereby Nexstar will acquire the latter’s outstanding equity for cash and stock consideration with an estimated value of $2.0 billion, plus potential additional consideration in the form of a CVR entitling Media General shareholders to net cash proceeds from the sale of Media General’s spectrum in the FCC’s upcoming spectrum auction. In connection with this transaction, Nexstar has received commitment from a group of commercial banks to provide the debt financing to consummate the merger and refinance certain existing indebtedness of Nexstar, Media General and certain of their variable interest entities up to a maximum of $4.7 billion. With respect to Nexstar and certain of its variable interest entities, the debt refinancing will include the outstanding obligations under its revolving credit facilities and term loans. See Note 3 for additional information. On February 1, 2016, Nexstar completed the acquisition of the assets of stations owned by Reiten. The acquisition was funded through a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under Nexstar’s revolving credit facility. See Notes 3 and 7 for additional information.

Summary of Significant Accoun26

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Nexstar and the accounts of independently-owned VIEs for which Nexstar is the primary beneficiary (See Variable Interest Entities below). Nexstar and the consolidated VIEs are collectively referred to as the “Company.” Noncontrolling interests represent the VIE owners’ share of the equity in the consolidated VIEs and are presented as a component separate from Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity (deficit). All intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Nexstar management evaluates each arrangement that may include variable interests and determines the need to consolidate an entity where it determines Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of a VIE in accordance with related authoritative literature and interpretive guidance. Effective January 1, 2015, Nexstar entered into or assumed local service agreements to provide programming and sales services to stations acquired from Communications Corporation of America (“CCA”) and sold to Marshall Broadcasting Group, Inc. (“Marshall”) and stations owned by White Knight Broadcasting (“White Knight”), which were considered to be VIEs and were consolidated as of that date. Certain assets of consolidated VIEs are not available to settle the obligations of Nexstar and there are certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs for which the creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. In previous filings, the Company presented such amounts as separate captions in its Consolidated Balance Sheets. Beginning in the first quarter of 2015, the Company has elected to present these amounts in a combined footnote on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with footnote disclosure of the related carrying amounts and classification as of December 31, as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Current assets $ 2,910 $ 12 (1) Property and equipment, net 4,004 - Goodwill 18,182 697 (1) FCC licenses 74,312 46,727 Other intangible assets, net 20,112 1,695 (1) Other noncurrent assets, net 389 - Total assets 119,909 49,131 Current liabilities 14,288 7,852 Noncurrent liabilities 26,427 10,018 Total liabilities $ 40,715 $ 17,870 (1) These balances relate to Parker Broadcasting of Colorado, LLC and were previously not presented separately on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. This correction is not considered material to the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014.
Variable Interest Entities	Variable Interest Entities The Company may determine that an entity is a VIE as a result of local service agreements entered into with an entity. The term local service agreement generally refers to a contract between two separately owned television stations serving the same market, whereby the owner-operator of one station contracts with the owner-operator of the other station to provide it with administrative, sales and other services required for the operation of its station. Nevertheless, the owner-operator of each station retains control and responsibility for the operation of its station, including ultimate responsibility over all programming broadcast on its station. A local service agreement can be (1) a time brokerage agreement (“TBA”) which allows Nexstar to program most of a station’s broadcast time, sell the station’s advertising time and retain the advertising revenue generated in exchange for monthly payments, based on the station’s monthly operating expenses, (2) a shared services agreement (“SSA”) which allows the Nexstar station in the market to provide services including news production, technical maintenance and security, in exchange for Nexstar’s right to receive certain payments as described in the SSA, or (3) a joint sales agreement (“JSA”) which permits Nexstar to sell certain of the station’s advertising time and retain a percentage of the related revenue, as described in the JSA. Consolidated VIEs Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (“Mission”), Marshall and Parker Broadcasting of Colorado, LLC (“Parker”) are consolidated by Nexstar because Nexstar is deemed under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) to have controlling financial interests in these entities for financial reporting purposes as a result of (1) local service agreements Nexstar has with the stations owned by these entities, (2) Nexstar’s guarantees of the obligations incurred under Mission’s and Marshall’s senior secured credit facilities (see Note 7), (3) Nexstar having power over significant activities affecting these entities’ economic performance, including budgeting for advertising revenue, certain advertising sales and, for Mission and Parker, hiring and firing of sales force personnel and (4) purchase options granted by Mission which permit Nexstar to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent. Effective January 1, 2015, upon Nexstar’s acquisition of CCA, Nexstar assumed CCA’s contractual obligations under its local service agreements with White Knight, the owner of three full power television stations in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Shreveport, Louisiana and Tyler-Longview, Texas markets. Nexstar evaluated the business arrangements with White Knight and has determined that it has a variable interest in this entity. Nexstar has also determined that it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest because it has the ultimate power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of White Knight, including management advice and consultation in broadcast matters, the ability to sell certain advertising on the White Knight stations, the production of the White Knight stations’ news and other programming, and oversight and control of sales management personnel. Additionally, Nexstar assumed CCA’s options to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each White Knight station, subject to FCC consent. Simultaneous with Nexstar’s acquisition of CCA, Nexstar sold the assets of CCA stations KPEJ and KMSS to Marshall and, as discussed above, Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of Marshall. Therefore, Nexstar consolidated White Knight, KPEJ and KMSS as of January 1, 2015. See Note 3 for additional information with respect to these transactions. The following table summarizes the various local service agreements Nexstar had in effect as of December 31, 2015 with Mission, Marshall, Parker and White Knight: Service Agreements Owner Full Power Stations TBA Only Mission WFXP and KHMT Parker KFQX SSA & JSA Mission KJTL, KLRT, KASN, KOLR, KCIT, KAMC, KRBC, KSAN, WUTR, WAWV, WYOU, KODE, WTVO, KTVE, WTVW and WVNY Marshall KLJB, KPEJ and KMSS White Knight WVLA, KFXK, KSHV Nexstar’s ability to receive cash from Mission, Marshall, Parker and White Knight is governed by the local service agreements. Under these agreements, Nexstar has received substantially all of the consolidated VIEs’ available cash, after satisfaction of operating costs and debt obligations. Nexstar anticipates it will continue to receive substantially all of the consolidated VIEs’ available cash, after satisfaction of operating costs and debt obligations. In compliance with FCC regulations for all the parties, Mission, Marshall, Parker and White Knight maintain complete responsibility for and control over programming, finances, personnel and operations of their stations. The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs which have been included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, were as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,137 $ 1,440 Accounts receivable, net 16,400 7,594 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,460 2,657 Total current assets 25,997 11,691 Property and equipment, net 29,681 26,235 Goodwill 69,825 35,308 FCC licenses 74,312 46,727 Other intangible assets, net 58,053 30,333 Other noncurrent assets, net 22,572 71,008 (1) Total assets $ 280,440 $ 221,302 Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ 6,985 $ 5,137 Interest payable 28 28 Other current liabilities 14,288 7,852 Total current liabilities 21,301 13,017 Debt 276,131 285,922 (1) Other noncurrent liabilities 26,427 10,018 Total liabilities $ 323,859 $ 308,957 (1) As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs and deferred tax assets and liabilities in the balance sheet. The guidance requires costs paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. Additionally, all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, should be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. As such, the amounts previously reported as current deferred tax assets and debt as of December 31, 2014 were decreased by $9.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively, and the amount previously reported as other noncurrent assets was increased by $6.2 million. Non-Consolidated VIEs Nexstar has an outsourcing agreement with Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation (“Cunningham”), which continues through December 31, 2017. Under the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar provides certain engineering, production, sales and administrative services for WYZZ, the FOX affiliate in the Peoria, Illinois market, through WMBD, the Nexstar television station in that market. During the term of the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar retains the broadcasting revenue and related expenses of WYZZ and is obligated to pay a monthly fee based on the combined operating cash flow of WMBD and WYZZ, as defined in the agreement. In connection with a proposed acquisition of four full power television stations from West Virginia Media Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“WVMH”), Nexstar began providing programming and sales services to WVMH stations effective December 1, 2015. Pursuant to the terms of the TBA with WVMH, Nexstar will pay an aggregate base fee of $7.5 million in equal monthly payments from the effective date through the final closing of the proposed acquisition which Nexstar projects to occur at the end of 2016. In the event that the proposed acquisition will not consummate for reasons beyond the control of Nexstar and WVMH, the TBA will terminate no later than June 30, 2017. See Note 3 for additional information. Nexstar has determined that it has variable interests in station WYZZ and the stations owned by WVMH. Nexstar has evaluated its arrangements with Cunningham and WVMH and has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of the variable interest in these stations because it does not have the ultimate power to direct the activities that most significantly impact their economic performance, including developing the annual operating budget, programming and oversight and control of sales management personnel. Therefore, Nexstar has not consolidated these stations under authoritative guidance related to the consolidation of VIEs. Under the agreements for WYZZ and the stations owned by WVMH, Nexstar pays for certain operating expenses, and therefore may have unlimited exposure to any potential operating losses. Nexstar’s management believes that Nexstar’s minimum exposure to loss under the WYZZ and WVMH agreements consist of the fees paid to Cunningham and WVMH. Additionally, Nexstar indemnifies Cunningham and WVMH from and against all liability and claims arising out of or resulting from its activities, acts or omissions in connection with the agreements. The maximum potential amount of future payments Nexstar could be required to make for such indemnification is undeterminable at this time. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Nexstar had balances in accounts payable of $0.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively, for fees under these arrangements and had receivables for advertising aired on these stations of $1.0 million and $0.7 million, respectively. Fees incurred under these arrangements of $1.2 million, $1.4 million and $5.3 million were included in direct operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation Certain prior year financial statement amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and use assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure for contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. The more significant estimates made by management include those relating to the allowance for doubtful accounts, valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, retransmission revenue recognized, trade and barter transactions, income taxes, the recoverability of goodwill, FCC licenses and other long-lived assets, the recoverability of broadcast rights and the useful lives of property and equipment and intangible assets. Actual results may vary from such estimates recorded.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The Company’s accounts receivable consist primarily of billings to its customers for advertising broadcast on its stations or placed on its websites or for retransmission consent from cable or satellite operators. Trade receivables normally have terms of 30 days and the Company has no interest provision for customer accounts that are past due. The Company maintains an allowance for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. Management periodically evaluates the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors, including customer payment history, known customer circumstances, the overall aging of customer balances and trends. In circumstances where management is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, an allowance is recorded to reduce their receivable amount to an amount estimated to be collectable.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments which potentially expose the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Cash deposits are maintained with several financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits; however, the Company believes these deposits are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit and are not subject to any unusual credit risk. A significant portion of the Company’s accounts receivable is due from local and national advertising agencies. The Company does not require collateral from its customers, but maintains reserves for potential credit losses. Management believes that the allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate, but if the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, additional allowances may be required. The Company has not experienced significant losses related to receivables from individual customers or by geographical area.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition The Company’s revenue is primarily derived from the sale of advertising. Total revenue includes cash and barter advertising revenue, retransmission compensation, digital media revenue and other broadcast related revenues. Advertising revenue is recognized, net of agency commissions, in the period during which the advertisements are broadcast on its stations or delivered on its websites. The Company determines whether gross or net presentation is appropriate based on its relationship in the applicable transactions with its ultimate customer. Any amounts paid by customers but not earned by the balance sheet date are recorded in deferred revenue. Retransmission compensation is recognized based on the estimated number of subscribers over the contract period, based on historical levels and trends for individual providers. Revenue from our digital businesses includes revenue from a content management system platform and related services and is recognized when services are performed. The Company barters advertising time for certain program material. These transactions, except those involving exchange of advertising time for network programming, are recorded at management’s estimate of the fair value of the advertising time exchanged, which approximates the fair value of the program material received. The fair value of advertising time exchanged is estimated by applying average historical advertising rates for specific time periods. Revenue from barter transactions is recognized as the related advertisement spots are broadcast. Barter expense is recognized at the time program broadcast rights assets are used. The Company recorded $37.7 million, $22.7 million and $22.8 million of barter revenue and barter expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Barter expense is included in amortization of broadcast rights in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company trades certain advertising time for various goods and services. These transactions are recorded at the estimated fair value of the goods or services received. Revenue from trade transactions is recognized when the related advertisement spots are broadcast. The Company recorded $9.4 million, $8.5 million and $8.7 million of trade revenue for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Trade expense is recognized when services or merchandise received are used. The Company recorded $9.0 million, $8.7 million and $7.9 million of trade expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, which was included in direct operating expenses in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Broadcast Rights and Broadcast Rights Payable	Broadcast Rights and Broadcast Rights Payable The Company records broadcast rights contracts as an asset and a liability when the following criteria are met: (1) the license period has begun, (2) the cost of each program is known or reasonably determinable, (3) the program material has been accepted in accordance with the license agreement, and (4) the program is produced and available for broadcast. Cash broadcast rights are initially recorded at the contract cost. Barter broadcast rights are recorded at fair value, which is estimated by using average historical rates for the time periods where the programming will air. Broadcast rights are amortized on a straight-line basis over the period the programming airs. The current portion of broadcast rights represents those rights available for broadcast which will be amortized in the succeeding year. At least quarterly, the Company evaluates the net realizable value, calculated using the average historical rates for the programs or the time periods the programming will air, of broadcast rights and adjusts amortization in that quarter for any deficiency calculated.
Property and Equipment, Net	Property and Equipment, Net Property and equipment is stated at cost or estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The cost and related accumulated depreciation applicable to assets sold or retired are removed from the accounts and the gain or loss on disposition is recognized. Major renewals and betterments are capitalized and ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to expense in the period incurred. Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets (see Note 4).
Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible Assets, Net Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill, broadcast licenses (“FCC licenses”), network affiliation agreements, developed technology and customer relationships arising from acquisitions. The purchase prices of acquired businesses are allocated to the assets and liabilities acquired at estimated fair values at the date of acquisition using various valuation techniques, including discounted projected cash flows, the cost approach and the income approach. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. The Company’s goodwill and FCC licenses are considered to be indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually in the Company’s fourth quarter, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such assets might be impaired. The use of an indefinite life for FCC licenses contemplates the Company’s historical ability to renew its licenses that such renewals generally may be obtained indefinitely and at little cost. Therefore, cash flows derived from the FCC licenses are expected to continue indefinitely. Network affiliation agreements are subject to amortization computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 15 years. The 15 year life assumes affiliation contracts will be renewed upon expiration. Changes in the likelihood of renewal could require a change in the useful life of such assets and cause an acceleration of amortization. The Company evaluates the remaining lives of its network affiliations whenever changes occur in the likelihood of affiliation contract renewals, and at least on an annual basis. The Company aggregates its television stations by market (a total of 55 reporting units) for purposes of goodwill and FCC license impairment testing because management views, manages and evaluates its stations on a market basis. Additionally, Nexstar has two digital media reporting units. The Company first assesses the qualitative factors to determine the likelihood of the goodwill and FCC licenses being impaired. The qualitative analysis includes, but is not limited to, assessing the changes in macroeconomic conditions, regulatory environment, industry and market conditions, and the financial performance versus budget of the reporting units, as well as any other events or circumstances specific to the reporting units or the FCC licenses. If it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s goodwill or a station’s FCC license is greater than its carrying amount, no further testing will be required. Otherwise, the Company will apply the quantitative impairment test method. The quantitative impairment test for FCC licenses consists of a market-by-market comparison of the carrying amount of FCC licenses with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis. The quantitative impairment test for goodwill utilizes a two-step fair value approach. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying amount. The fair value of a reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by performing an assumed purchase price allocation, using the reporting unit fair value (as determined in Step 1) as the purchase price. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Determining the fair value of reporting units requires management to make a number of judgments about assumptions and estimates that are highly subjective and that are based on unobservable inputs. The actual results may differ from these assumptions and estimates, and it is possible that such differences could have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition to the various inputs (i.e. market growth, operating profit margins, discount rates) used to calculate the fair value of FCC licenses and reporting units, the Company evaluates the reasonableness of its assumptions by comparing the total fair value of all its reporting units to its total market capitalization; and by comparing the fair values of its reporting units and FCC licenses to recent market television station sale transactions. The Company tests finite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable, relying on a number of factors including operating results, business plans, economic projections and anticipated future cash flows. An impairment in the carrying amount of a finite-lived intangible asset is recognized when the expected discounted future operating cash flow derived from the operation to which the asset relates is less than its carrying value. The impairment test for finite-lived intangible assets consists of an asset (asset group) comparison of the carrying amount with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis.
Debt Financing Costs	Debt Financing Costs Debt financing costs represent direct costs incurred to obtain long-term financing and are amortized to interest expense over the term of the related debt using the effective interest method. Previously capitalized debt financing costs are expensed and included in loss on extinguishment of debt if the Company determines that there has been a substantial modification of the related debt. As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs. The guidance requires cost paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. As of December 31, 2015, and 2014, deferred financing costs related to term loans and publicly-held notes of $15.9 million and $15.8 million, respectively, were presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of debt. As of December 31, 2015, and 2014, debt financing costs related to revolving credit facilities of $0.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively, were included in other noncurrent assets.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive income (loss) includes net income (loss) and certain items that are excluded from net income (loss) and recorded as a separate component of stockholders’ equity (deficit). During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company had no items of other comprehensive income (loss) and, therefore, comprehensive income (loss) does not differ from reported net income (loss).
Advertising Expense	Advertising Expense The cost of advertising is expensed as incurred. The Company incurred advertising costs in the amount of $3.4 million, $2.7 million and $2.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, of which the majority was recognized in trade expense.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments The Company utilizes the following categories to classify the valuation methodologies for fair values of financial assets and liabilities: Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity). The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, broadcast rights payable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, excluding acquisition related contingent consideration liabilities, approximates fair value due to their short-term nature. See Note 3 for fair value disclosures of contingent consideration payable in connection with the acquisition of Kixer, Inc (“Kixer”). See Note 7 for fair value disclosures related to the Company’s debt.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Nexstar maintains stock-based employee compensation plans which are described more fully in Note 10. The Company calculates the grant-date fair value of employee stock options using the Black-Scholes model. The fair value of restricted stock units is based on the number of shares awarded and market price of the stock on the date of award. These amounts are recognized into selling, general and administrative expense over the vesting period of the options or the restricted stock units.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is applied against net deferred tax assets if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Nexstar and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Mission, Marshall and White Knight file their own separate federal income tax returns. The Company recognizes the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities. The determination is based on the technical merits of the position and presumes that each uncertain tax position will be examined by the relevant taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The Company recognizes interest and penalties relating to income taxes within income tax expense. As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of deferred tax assets and liabilities. The guidance requires that all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet.
Income (Loss) Per Share	Income (Loss) Per Share Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares and potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. Potentially dilutive common shares are calculated using the treasury stock method. They consist of stock options and restricted stock units outstanding during the period and reflect the potential dilution that could occur if common shares were issued upon exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units. The following table shows the amounts used in computing the Company’s diluted shares during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average shares outstanding - basic 31,100 30,774 29,897 Dilutive effect of equity incentive plan instruments 991 1,229 - Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 32,091 32,003 29,897 The Company has outstanding stock options and restricted stock units to acquire 766,000, 720,000 and 3,418,000 weighted average shares of common stock for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, the effects of which are excluded from the calculation of dilutive income (loss) per share, as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented.
Segments	Segments Nexstar operates in one reportable television broadcasting segment. The economic characteristics, services, production process, customer type and distribution methods for Nexstar’s broadcast operations are substantially similar and are therefore aggregated as a single reportable segment. The other activities of the Company include corporate functions and other insignificant operations.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810) - Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Interest, Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs Interest, Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes

Summary of Significant Accoun27

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Consolidated VIEs	The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs which have been included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, were as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,137 $ 1,440 Accounts receivable, net 16,400 7,594 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,460 2,657 Total current assets 25,997 11,691 Property and equipment, net 29,681 26,235 Goodwill 69,825 35,308 FCC licenses 74,312 46,727 Other intangible assets, net 58,053 30,333 Other noncurrent assets, net 22,572 71,008 (1) Total assets $ 280,440 $ 221,302 Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ 6,985 $ 5,137 Interest payable 28 28 Other current liabilities 14,288 7,852 Total current liabilities 21,301 13,017 Debt 276,131 285,922 (1) Other noncurrent liabilities 26,427 10,018 Total liabilities $ 323,859 $ 308,957 (1) As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs and deferred tax assets and liabilities in the balance sheet. The guidance requires costs paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. Additionally, all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, should be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. As such, the amounts previously reported as current deferred tax assets and debt as of December 31, 2014 were decreased by $9.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively, and the amount previously reported as other noncurrent assets was increased by $6.2 million.
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares and potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. Potentially dilutive common shares are calculated using the treasury stock method. They consist of stock options and restricted stock units outstanding during the period and reflect the potential dilution that could occur if common shares were issued upon exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units. The following table shows the amounts used in computing the Company’s diluted shares during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average shares outstanding - basic 31,100 30,774 29,897 Dilutive effect of equity incentive plan instruments 991 1,229 - Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 32,091 32,003 29,897
Consolidated VIEs [Member]
Consolidated VIEs	Certain assets of consolidated VIEs are not available to settle the obligations of Nexstar and there are certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs for which the creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. In previous filings, the Company presented such amounts as separate captions in its Consolidated Balance Sheets. Beginning in the first quarter of 2015, the Company has elected to present these amounts in a combined footnote on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with footnote disclosure of the related carrying amounts and classification as of December 31, as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Current assets $ 2,910 $ 12 (1) Property and equipment, net 4,004 - Goodwill 18,182 697 (1) FCC licenses 74,312 46,727 Other intangible assets, net 20,112 1,695 (1) Other noncurrent assets, net 389 - Total assets 119,909 49,131 Current liabilities 14,288 7,852 Noncurrent liabilities 26,427 10,018 Total liabilities $ 40,715 $ 17,870 (1) These balances relate to Parker Broadcasting of Colorado, LLC and were previously not presented separately on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. This correction is not considered material to the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014.

Acquisitions and Dispositions (

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Unaudited Pro forma Information	The following unaudited pro forma information has been presented for the periods indicated as if the acquisition of CCA and the related consolidation of VIEs had occurred on January 1, 2014, the acquisitions of IBS and Grant and the related consolidation of a VIE had occurred on January 1, 2013, and the 2013 acquisitions from Newport discussed above had occurred on January 1, 2012 (in thousands, except per share data): 2015 2014 2013 Net revenue $ 896,377 $ 789,406 $ 565,873 Income before income taxes 130,477 137,005 3,111 Net income (loss) 79,686 78,252 (95 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar 79,746 74,899 (574 ) Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Nexstar - basic 2.56 2.43 (0.02 ) Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Nexstar - diluted 2.48 2.34 (0.02 )
CCA [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the CCA acquisition (net of the effects of the sale of WEVV to BCB), including the consolidation of the assets and liabilities of White Knight, KPEJ and KMSS, are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 2,323 Accounts receivable 19,975 Broadcast rights 10,233 Deferred tax assets 247 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 257 Property and equipment 26,012 FCC licenses 71,465 Network affiliation agreements 86,219 Other intangible assets 7,818 Goodwill 120,370 Other assets 59 Total assets acquired and consolidated 344,978 Less: Broadcast rights payable (10,467 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (4,703 ) Less: Taxes payable (18,613 ) Less: Other current liabilities (336 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (57,022 ) Less: Other noncurrent liabilities (221 ) Less: Noncontrolling interest in a consolidated VIE (2,900 ) Net assets acquired and consolidated $ 250,716
KASW [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Accounts receivable $ 3,544 Broadcast rights 8,771 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 24 Property and equipment 987 FCC licenses 35,566 Other intangible assets 713 Goodwill 32,203 Total assets acquired 81,808 Less: Broadcast rights payable (10,291 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (739 ) Net assets acquired $ 70,778
Yashi [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 1,470 Accounts receivable 6,788 Property and equipment 114 Developed technology and other intangible assets 18,348 Goodwill 21,353 Other assets 15 Total assets acquired 48,088 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (7,641 ) Less: Taxes payable (108 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (6,985 ) Net assets acquired $ 33,354
KLAS [ Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 18 Accounts receivable 6,654 Broadcast rights 58 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 438 Property and equipment 19,238 FCC licenses 60,627 Network affiliation agreements 49,520 Goodwill 15,520 Total assets acquired 152,073 Less: Broadcast rights payable (58 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (1,051 ) Less: Other current liabilities (201 ) Net assets acquired $ 150,763
Kixer [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	Subject to final determination, the provisional fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 251 Accounts receivable 978 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 4 Property and equipment 19 Developed technology and other intangible assets 6,089 Goodwill 6,958 Total assets acquired 14,299 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (735 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (2,109 ) Net assets acquired $ 11,455
Citadel [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities consolidated upon becoming a VIE are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 269 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 305 Property and equipment 10,613 FCC licenses 24,700 Network affiliation agreements 26,129 Other intangible assets 3,398 Goodwill 30,195 Other assets 1,807 Total assets acquired 97,416 Less: Broadcast rights payable (269 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (397 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (8,801 ) Net assets acquired $ 87,949
Internet Broadcasting Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Accounts receivable $ 631 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 154 Property and equipment 2,851 Developed technology and other intangible assets 10,853 Goodwill 6,396 Total assets acquired 20,885 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (1,119 ) Less: Deferred revenue (976 ) Net assets acquired $ 18,790
ETG [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 433 Accounts receivable 210 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 84 Property and equipment 75 Developed technology and other intangible assets 4,329 Goodwill 4,432 Total assets acquired 9,563 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (368 ) Less: Deferred revenue (219 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (1,792 ) Net assets acquired $ 7,184
Gray TV [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Accounts receivable $ 1,831 Broadcast rights 98 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 75 Property and equipment 12,513 FCC licenses 5,950 Network affiliation agreements 7,719 Other intangible assets 1,878 Goodwill 4,895 Total assets acquired 34,959 Less: Broadcast rights payable (98 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (361 ) Net assets acquired $ 34,500
KFQX [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	Upon Nexstar’s acquisition of KREX, Nexstar assumed the contractual obligations under a TBA with Parker to perform certain sales and other services for KFQX. As discussed in Note 2, Nexstar is the primary beneficiary of the variable interests in Parker and has consolidated this station into its Consolidated Financial Statements beginning June 13, 2014. Nexstar has recorded the following estimated fair values of beginning assets and liabilities of the station (in thousands): FCC licenses $ 1,539 Network affiliation agreements 1,744 Other intangible assets 20 Goodwill 697 Total assets consolidated 4,000 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (13 ) Net assets consolidated $ 3,987
Grant [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Grant acquisition, including the assets and liabilities of KLJB, are as follows (in thousands): Cash $ 1,834 Accounts receivable 7,751 Broadcast rights 9,213 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 157 Property and equipment 22,971 FCC licenses 25,531 Network affiliation agreements 27,614 Other intangible assets 3,101 Goodwill 41,246 Other assets 34 Total assets acquired and consolidated 139,452 Less: Broadcast rights payable (10,337 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (4,107 ) Less: Capital lease obligation (4,446 ) Less: Software agreement obligation (562 ) Less: Taxes payable (5,832 ) Less: Deferred tax liabilities (21,755 ) Net assets acquired and consolidated $ 92,413
KLRT/KASN [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 2,279 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 71 Property and equipment 11,153 FCC licenses 16,827 Network affiliation agreements 17,002 Other intangible assets 2,511 Goodwill 12,727 Other assets 7 Total assets acquired 62,577 Less: Broadcast rights payable (2,492 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (386 ) Net assets acquired $ 59,699
KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 72 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 351 Property and equipment 9,343 FCC licenses 14,318 Network affiliation agreements 9,307 Other intangible assets 1,310 Goodwill 1,077 Total assets acquired 35,778 Less: Broadcast rights payable (72 ) Less: Deferred revenue (57 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (196 ) Net assets acquired $ 35,453
KSEE [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Prepaid expenses and other current assets $ 140 Property and equipment 7,350 FCC licenses 7,385 Network affiliation agreements 7,870 Other intangible assets 107 Goodwill 3,838 Total assets acquired 26,690 Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (194 ) Net assets acquired $ 26,496
WFFF/WVNY [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition are as follows (in thousands): Broadcast rights $ 1,030 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 150 Property and equipment 7,100 FCC licenses 2,797 FCC licenses of consolidated VIEs 2,797 Network affiliation agreements 2,119 Other intangible assets 439 Goodwill 1,787 Total assets acquired 18,219 Less: Broadcast rights payable (1,145 ) Less: Deferred revenue (19 ) Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses (504 ) Net assets acquired $ 16,551

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	Property and equipment consisted of the following, as of December 31 (dollars in thousands): Estimated useful life, in years 2015 2014 Buildings and improvements 39 $ 73,343 $ 65,050 Land N/A 29,765 16,699 Leasehold improvements term of lease 9,616 7,633 Studio and transmission equipment 5-15 339,041 305,075 Computer equipment 3-5 31,731 26,031 Furniture and fixtures 7 10,824 10,097 Vehicles 5 15,811 14,329 Construction in progress N/A 7,680 9,116 517,811 454,030 Less: accumulated depreciation (251,228 ) (216,291 ) Property and equipment, net $ 266,583 $ 237,739

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization	Intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following, as of December 31 (in thousands): Estimated 2015 2014 useful life, Accumulated Accumulated in years Gross Amortization Net Gross Amortization Net Network affiliation agreements 15 $ 614,592 $ (338,016 ) $ 276,576 $ 478,888 $ (310,097 ) $ 168,791 Other definite-lived intangible assets 1-15 84,921 (47,136 ) 37,785 52,052 (26,714 ) 25,338 Other intangible assets $ 699,513 $ (385,152 ) $ 314,361 $ 530,940 $ (336,811 ) $ 194,129
Estimated Amortization Expense of Definite-Lived Intangibles Assets	The following table presents the Company’s estimate of amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter for definite-lived intangibles assets as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 41,917 2017 32,815 2018 27,789 2019 26,044 2020 22,408 Thereafter 163,388 $ 314,361
Goodwill and FCC Licenses	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill and FCC licenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): Goodwill FCC Licenses Accumulated Accumulated Gross Impairment Net Gross Impairment Net Balances as of December 31, 2013 $ 244,043 $ (45,991 ) $ 198,052 $ 338,441 $ (49,421 ) $ 289,020 Acquisitions and consolidation of VIEs (See Notes 2 and 3) 58,439 - 58,439 33,020 - 33,020 Balances as of December 31, 2014 302,482 (45,991 ) 256,491 371,461 (49,421 ) 322,040 Acquisitions and consolidation of VIEs (See Notes 2 and 3) 195,171 - 195,171 167,295 - 167,295 Balances as of December 31, 2015 $ 497,653 $ (45,991 ) $ 451,662 $ 538,756 $ (49,421 ) $ 489,335

Accrued Expenses (Tables)

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consisted of the following, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Compensation and related taxes $ 15,810 $ 13,026 Network affiliation fees 22,324 11,010 Other 22,350 12,771 $ 60,484 $ 36,807

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long Term Debt	Long-term debt consisted of the following, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Term loans, net of financing costs and discount of $8,715 and $10,823, respectively $ 682,223 $ 695,956 Revolving loans 2,000 5,500 6.875% Senior unsecured notes due 2020, net of financing costs and discount of $5,223 and $6,087, respectively 519,777 518,913 6.125% Senior unsecured notes due 2022, net of financing costs of $2,786 272,214 - 1,476,214 1,220,369 Less: current portion (22,139 ) (15,840 ) $ 1,454,075 $ 1,204,529
Fair Value of Debt	The aggregate carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s debt were as follows, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value Term loans (1) $ 682,223 $ 678,045 $ 695,956 $ 697,420 Revolving loans (1) 2,000 1,961 5,500 5,386 6.875% Senior unsecured notes (2) 519,777 534,188 518,913 547,313 6.125% Senior unsecured notes (2) 272,214 269,500 - - (1) The fair value of senior secured credit facilities is computed based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities. These fair value measurements are considered Level 3, as significant inputs to the fair value calculation are unobservable in the market. (2) The fair value of Nexstar’s fixed rate debt is estimated based on bid prices obtained from an investment banking firm that regularly makes a market for these financial instruments. These fair value measurements are considered Level 2, as quoted market prices are available for low volume trading of these securities.
Maturities of Debt	The scheduled maturities of the Company’s debt, excluding the unamortized discount and premium and certain debt financing costs, as of December 31, 2015 are summarized as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 22,139 2017 30,094 2018 168,614 2019 4,982 2020 992,109 Thereafter 275,000 $ 1,492,938

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Assumptions Used in Black-Scholes Calculations	The assumptions used in calculating the fair values of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows: 2015 2014 Expected volatility 86.3% 87.0% - 87.2% Risk-free interest rates 1.6% 2.1% - 2.3% Expected life 7 years 7 years Dividend yields 1.6% 1.1% - 1.5% Weighted-average grant date fair value per share $ 31.45 $ 31.87
Summary of Stock Award Activity and Related Information	The following table summarizes stock award activity and related information for all of Nexstar’s Equity Plans for the year ended December 31, 2015: Outstanding Options Non-Vested Options Restricted Stock Units Weighted- Weighted- Average Aggregate Weighted- Weighted- Shares Average Remaining Intrinsic Average Average Available Exercise Contractual Value (1) Grant-Date Unvested Grant-Date for Grant Shares Price Term (Years) (thousands) Shares Fair Value Shares Fair Value Balances as of December 31, 2014 397,500 2,742,275 $ 17.61 1,287,000 $ 21.48 20,500 $ 44.58 2015 Plan shares approved 2,500,000 Options granted (200,000 ) 200,000 $ 47.11 200,000 $ 31.45 - - Restricted stock units awarded (210,000 ) - - - - 210,000 $ 45.78 Exercised - (461,184 ) $ 7.28 - - - - Vested - - - (478,250 ) $ 16.63 (5,125 ) $ 44.58 Forfeited/cancelled 37,500 (37,500 ) $ 46.03 (35,625 ) $ 31.96 - - Balances as of December 31, 2015 2,525,000 2,443,591 $ 21.54 6.31 $ 90,807 973,125 $ 25.53 225,375 $ 45.69 Exercisable as of December 31, 2015 1,470,466 $ 11.39 5.26 $ 69,571 Fully vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2015 2,422,963 $ 21.38 6.30 $ 90,424 (1) Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the closing market price of Nexstar’s common stock on the last day of the fiscal period, which was $58.70 on December 31, 2015, and the stock option exercise prices multiplied by the number of options outstanding.

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Taxes	The income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following components for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Current tax expense (benefit): Federal $ (108 ) $ 402 $ (681 ) State 5,120 2,230 480 5,012 2,632 (201 ) Deferred tax expense (benefit): Federal 43,772 38,176 2,069 State (97 ) 5,293 732 43,675 43,469 2,801 Income tax expense $ 48,687 $ 46,101 $ 2,600
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Expense Reconciliation	The income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% to the income before income taxes. The sources and tax effects of the differences were as follows, for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Income tax expense at 35% statutory federal rate $ 43,774 $ 38,752 $ 285 State and local taxes, net of federal benefit 3,315 5,373 599 Nondeductible compensation 652 690 479 Nondeductible acquisition costs 251 342 611 Nondeductible meals and entertainment 417 381 321 Other 278 563 305 Income tax expense $ 48,687 $ 46,101 $ 2,600
Schedule of Components of Net Deferred Tax Asset Liability	The components of the net deferred tax asset (liability) were as follows, as of December 31 (in thousands): 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss carryforwards $ 69,547 $ 106,890 Compensation 10,918 7,459 Rent 3,418 3,288 Other 9,352 6,055 Total deferred tax assets 93,235 123,692 Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment (13,106 ) (9,528 ) Other intangible assets (46,983 ) (18,933 ) Goodwill (29,872 ) (24,352 ) FCC licenses (89,438 ) (58,197 ) Other (13 ) (114 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (179,412 ) (111,124 ) Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $ (86,177 ) $ 12,568

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Future Minimum Payments for Un-booked Broadcast Rights	Future minimum payments for license agreements for which the license period has not commenced and no asset or liability has been recorded are as follows as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 12,313 2017 9,336 2018 4,952 2019 2,963 2020 869 Thereafter 1,438 $ 31,871
Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Operating Leases	Future minimum lease payments under these operating leases are as follows as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 10,459 2017 10,367 2018 9,608 2019 7,840 2020 7,708 Thereafter 20,506 $ 66,488
Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Capital Leases	The future minimum lease payments under these agreements as of December 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 361 2017 331 2018 315 2019 328 2020 341 Thereafter 6,333 8,009 Less: Amount representing interest 3,487 $ 4,522

Segment Data (Tables)

Segment Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Financial Information	Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2015 Broadcasting Other Consolidated Net revenue $ 846,926 $ 49,451 $ 896,377 Depreciation 41,053 6,169 47,222 Amortization of intangible assets 35,845 12,630 48,475 Income from operations 266,919 (60,812 ) 206,107 Goodwill 412,965 38,697 451,662 Assets 1,660,737 174,397 1,835,134 Year ended December 31, 2014 Broadcasting Other Consolidated Net revenue $ 609,668 $ 21,643 $ 631,311 Depreciation 31,564 3,483 35,047 Amortization of intangible assets 21,932 3,918 25,850 Income from operations 216,724 (43,487 ) 173,237 Goodwill 245,665 10,826 256,491 Assets 1,136,474 277,628 1,414,102 Year ended December 31, 2013 Broadcasting Other Consolidated Net revenue $ 492,789 $ 9,541 $ 502,330 Depreciation 29,901 3,677 33,578 Amortization of intangible assets 27,235 2,913 30,148 Income from operations 131,865 (28,624 ) 103,241

Condensed Consolidating Finan37

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Information Of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ - $ 27,492 $ 4,361 $ 11,563 $ - $ 43,416 Accounts receivable - 163,008 9,370 20,613 - 192,991 Amounts due from consolidated entities - 10,600 51,978 - (62,578 ) - Other current assets - 19,984 1,364 2,273 - 23,621 Total current assets - 221,084 67,073 34,449 (62,578 ) 260,028 Investments in subsidiaries 184,332 38,931 - - (223,263 ) - Amounts due from consolidated entities - 133,659 - - (133,659 ) - Property and equipment, net - 232,206 21,891 12,486 - 266,583 Goodwill - 343,140 32,489 76,033 - 451,662 FCC licenses - 415,024 41,563 32,748 - 489,335 Other intangible assets, net - 228,936 18,892 66,533 - 314,361 Other noncurrent assets - 30,539 20,418 2,208 - 53,165 Total assets $ 184,332 $ 1,643,519 $ 202,326 $ 224,457 $ (419,500 ) $ 1,835,134 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ - $ 15,154 $ 2,335 $ 4,650 $ - $ 22,139 Accounts payable - 14,705 906 10,325 25,936 Amounts due to consolidated entities - 47,700 - 14,878 (62,578 ) - Other current liabilities - 78,868 6,909 12,209 - 97,986 Total current liabilities - 156,427 10,150 42,062 (62,578 ) 146,061 Debt - 1,177,944 223,235 52,896 - 1,454,075 Amounts due to consolidated entities 63,309 - - 70,350 (133,659 ) - Other noncurrent liabilities - 118,048 9,351 21,226 - 148,625 Total liabilities 63,309 1,452,419 242,736 186,534 (196,237 ) 1,748,761 Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit) 121,023 191,100 (40,410 ) 32,224 (223,263 ) 80,674 Noncontrolling interests in consolidated variable interest entities - - - 5,699 - 5,699 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 184,332 $ 1,643,519 $ 202,326 $ 224,457 $ (419,500 ) $ 1,835,134 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET As of December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ - $ 130,472 $ 880 $ 560 $ - $ 131,912 Accounts receivable - 118,321 6,895 2,662 - 127,878 Amounts due from consolidated entities - 844 29,867 - (30,711 ) - Other current assets - 13,055 1,726 1,356 - 16,137 Total current assets - 262,692 39,368 4,578 (30,711 ) 275,927 Investments in subsidiaries 125,076 - - - (125,076 ) - Amounts due from consolidated entities - 46,582 - - (46,582 ) - Property and equipment, net - 207,286 24,166 6,287 - 237,739 Goodwill - 210,355 32,489 13,647 - 256,491 FCC licenses - 275,313 41,563 5,164 - 322,040 Other intangible assets, net - 148,381 21,310 24,438 - 194,129 Other noncurrent assets - 51,625 30,368 45,783 - 127,776 Total assets $ 125,076 $ 1,202,234 $ 189,264 $ 99,897 $ (202,369 ) $ 1,414,102 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Current portion of debt $ - $ 10,703 $ 1,837 $ 3,300 $ - $ 15,840 Accounts payable - 15,338 907 986 - 17,231 Amounts due to consolidated entities - 29,026 - 1,685 (30,711 ) - Other current liabilities - 55,116 5,806 3,273 - 64,195 Total current liabilities - 110,183 8,550 9,244 (30,711 ) 97,266 Debt - 918,607 230,556 55,366 - 1,204,529 Amounts due to consolidated entities 13,763 - - 32,819 (46,582 ) - Other noncurrent liabilities - 45,743 8,667 1,360 - 55,770 Total liabilities 13,763 1,074,533 247,773 98,789 (77,293 ) 1,357,565 Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit) 111,313 127,701 (58,509 ) (2,892 ) (125,076 ) 52,537 Noncontrolling interest in a consolidated variable interest entity - - - 4,000 - 4,000 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 125,076 $ 1,202,234 $ 189,264 $ 99,897 $ (202,369 ) $ 1,414,102
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter) $ - $ 759,694 $ 51,132 $ 85,551 $ - $ 896,377 Revenue between consolidated entities - 25,854 37,000 12,132 (74,986 ) - Net revenue - 785,548 88,132 97,683 (74,986 ) 896,377 Operating expenses: Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 233,530 24,601 44,130 (4 ) 302,257 Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 213,415 3,536 19,660 (4,131 ) 232,480 Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities - 44,997 9,780 16,074 (70,851 ) - Amortization of broadcast rights - 49,044 5,766 5,026 - 59,836 Amortization of intangible assets - 29,312 2,418 16,745 - 48,475 Depreciation - 41,833 2,435 2,954 - 47,222 Total operating expenses - 612,131 48,536 104,589 (74,986 ) 690,270 Income (loss) from operations - 173,417 39,596 (6,906 ) - 206,107 Interest expense, net - (69,649 ) (9,325 ) (1,546 ) - (80,520 ) Other expenses - (517 ) - - - (517 ) Equity in income of subsidiaries 59,256 - - - (59,256 ) - Income (loss) before income taxes 59,256 103,251 30,271 (8,452 ) (59,256 ) 125,070 Income tax (expense) benefit - (39,851 ) (12,172 ) 3,336 - (48,687 ) Net income (loss) 59,256 63,400 18,099 (5,116 ) (59,256 ) 76,383 Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests - - - 1,301 - 1,301 Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar $ 59,256 $ 63,400 $ 18,099 $ (3,815 ) $ (59,256 ) $ 77,684 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter) $ - $ 572,368 $ 36,498 $ 22,445 $ - $ 631,311 Revenue between consolidated entities - 10,012 42,079 249 (52,340 ) - Net revenue - 582,380 78,577 22,694 (52,340 ) 631,311 Operating expenses: Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 157,988 18,135 11,309 - 187,432 Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 160,186 3,188 12,240 (185 ) 175,429 Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities - 42,079 9,780 296 (52,155 ) - Amortization of broadcast rights - 28,365 5,844 107 - 34,316 Amortization of intangible assets - 19,147 2,728 3,975 - 25,850 Depreciation - 30,897 2,760 1,390 - 35,047 Total operating expenses - 438,662 42,435 29,317 (52,340 ) 458,074 Income (loss) from operations - 143,718 36,142 (6,623 ) - 173,237 Interest expense, net - (51,804 ) (10,014 ) (141 ) - (61,959 ) Loss on extinguishment of debt - (50 ) (21 ) - - (71 ) Other expenses - (556 ) - - - (556 ) Equity in income of subsidiaries 23,225 - - - (23,225 ) - Income (loss) before income taxes 23,225 91,308 26,107 (6,764 ) (23,225 ) 110,651 Income tax (expense) benefit - (38,558 ) (10,023 ) 2,480 - (46,101 ) Net income (loss) $ 23,225 $ 52,750 $ 16,084 $ (4,284 ) $ (23,225 ) $ 64,550 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter) $ - $ 463,817 $ 28,971 $ 9,542 $ - $ 502,330 Revenue between consolidated entities - 9,740 39,513 1,627 (50,880 ) - Net revenue - 473,557 68,484 11,169 (50,880 ) 502,330 Operating expenses: Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 131,991 14,550 1,170 - 147,711 Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization - 145,726 3,235 4,879 (1,627 ) 152,213 Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities - 39,513 9,740 - (49,253 ) - Amortization of broadcast rights - 29,405 6,034 - - 35,439 Amortization of intangible assets - 20,622 6,762 2,764 - 30,148 Depreciation - 29,684 3,535 359 - 33,578 Total operating expenses - 396,941 43,856 9,172 (50,880 ) 399,089 Income from operations - 76,616 24,628 1,997 - 103,241 Interest expense, net - (50,062 ) (16,181 ) - - (66,243 ) Loss on extinguishment of debt - (20,392 ) (14,332 ) - - (34,724 ) Other expenses - (1,157 ) (302 ) - - (1,459 ) Equity in income of subsidiaries 1,961 - - - (1,961 ) - Income (loss) before income taxes 1,961 5,005 (6,187 ) 1,997 (1,961 ) 815 Income tax (expense) benefit - (4,260 ) 2,441 (781 ) - (2,600 ) Net income (loss) $ 1,961 $ 745 $ (3,746 ) $ 1,216 $ (1,961 ) $ (1,785 )
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Cash Flow Statement	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Cash flows from operating activities $ - $ 163,476 $ 10,934 $ 22,856 $ - $ 197,266 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment - (26,636 ) (258 ) (2,303 ) 176 (29,021 ) Deposits and payments for acquisitions - (510,701 ) - (8,548 ) 43,300 (475,949 ) Proceeds from sale of stations - 70,305 - - (43,300 ) 27,005 Other investing activities - 3,450 150 200 (176 ) 3,624 Net cash used in investing activities - (463,582 ) (108 ) (10,651 ) - (474,341 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from long-term debt - 419,950 - 2,000 - 421,950 Repayments of long-term debt - (155,653 ) (7,337 ) (3,300 ) - (166,290 ) Common stock dividends paid (23,686 ) - - - - (23,686 ) Purchase of treasury stock (48,660 ) - - - - (48,660 ) Inter-company payments 68,989 (68,989 ) - - - - Other financing activities 3,357 1,818 (8 ) 98 - 5,265 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities - 197,126 (7,345 ) (1,202 ) - 188,579 Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents - (102,980 ) 3,481 11,003 - (88,496 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period - 130,472 880 560 - 131,912 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ - $ 27,492 $ 4,361 $ 11,563 $ - $ 43,416 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Cash flows from operating activities $ - $ 166,915 $ (1,928 ) $ 1,540 $ - $ 166,527 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment - (18,826 ) (236 ) (1,327 ) - (20,389 ) Deposits and payments for acquisitions - (163,533 ) (3,200 ) (58,300 ) 15,300 (209,733 ) Proceeds from sale of a station - 15,300 - - (15,300 ) - Other investing activities - 89 - - - 89 Net cash used in investing activities - (166,970 ) (3,436 ) (59,627 ) - (230,033 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from long-term debt - 171,925 5,500 59,850 - 237,275 Repayments of long-term debt - (68,849 ) (2,832 ) (750 ) - (72,431 ) Common stock dividends paid (18,445 ) - - - - (18,445 ) Inter-company payments 16,414 (16,414 ) - - - - Other financing activities 2,031 7,553 (140 ) (453 ) - 8,991 Net - 94,215 2,528 58,647 - 155,390 Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents - 94,160 (2,836 ) 560 - 91,884 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period - 36,312 3,716 - - 40,028 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ - $ 130,472 $ 880 $ 560 $ - $ 131,912 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands) Nexstar Non- Consolidated Nexstar Broadcasting Mission Guarantors Eliminations Company Cash flows from operating activities $ - $ 18,749 $ 4,428 $ 1,245 $ 2,917 $ 27,339 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment - (17,545 ) (165 ) (1,245 ) - (18,955 ) Deposits and payments for acquisitions - (169,874 ) (59,508 ) - - (229,382 ) Other investing activities - 56 3,080 - (2,917 ) 219 Net cash used in investing activities - (187,363 ) (56,593 ) (1,245 ) (2,917 ) (248,118 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from long-term debt - 459,563 195,000 - - 654,563 Repayments of long-term debt - (300,825 ) (138,010 ) - - (438,835 ) Common stock dividends paid (14,302 ) - - - - (14,302 ) Purchase of treasury stock (8,422 ) - - - - (8,422 ) Inter-company payments 15,765 (15,765 ) - - - - Other financing activities 6,959 (6,728 ) (1,427 ) - - (1,196 ) Net - 136,245 55,563 - - 191,808 Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents - (32,369 ) 3,398 - - (28,971 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period - 68,681 318 - - 68,999 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ - $ 36,312 $ 3,716 $ - $ - $ 40,028

Unaudited Quarterly Data (Table

Unaudited Quarterly Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Unaudited Quarterly Data	Three Months Ended March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, 2015 2015 2015 2015 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Net revenue (1) $ 201,735 $ 219,349 $ 223,031 $ 252,262 Income from operations 37,904 52,542 48,315 67,346 Income before income taxes 18,493 32,001 27,804 46,772 Net income attributable to Nexstar 12,907 20,321 17,282 27,174 Basic net income per common share $ 0.41 $ 0.65 $ 0.55 $ 0.89 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 31,196 31,325 31,262 30,622 Diluted net income per common share $ 0.40 $ 0.63 $ 0.54 $ 0.86 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 32,256 32,382 32,151 31,580 (1) During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations. Three Months Ended March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, 2014 2014 2014 2014 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Net revenue $ 133,833 $ 146,930 $ 157,744 $ 192,804 Income from operations 27,700 34,942 41,696 68,899 Income before income taxes 12,402 19,405 25,994 52,850 Net income 7,353 10,944 15,404 30,849 Basic net income per common share $ 0.24 $ 0.36 $ 0.50 $ 1.00 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 30,603 30,641 30,888 30,962 Diluted net income per common share $ 0.23 $ 0.34 $ 0.48 $ 0.96 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 31,909 31,932 32,067 32,102

Valuation and Qualifying Acco39

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Rollforward Additions Balance at Charged to Balance at Beginning Costs and End of of Period Expenses Deductions (1) Period Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 3,002 $ 3,443 $ (1,076 ) $ 5,369 Year Ended December 31, 2014 3,035 2,604 (2,637 ) 3,002 Year Ended December 31, 2013 1,965 2,697 (1,627 ) 3,035 (1) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.

Organization and Business Ope40

Organization and Business Operations (Details) Viewer in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015ViewerTelevisionStationMarket
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of full power television stations owned, operated, programmed or provided sales and other services	99
Number of markets in various states | Market	61
Approximate number of viewers | Viewer	20.4
Approximate number of viewers (in hundredths)	18.00%
Number of full power television stations owned or operated by independent third parties	30

Summary of Significant Accoun41

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated VIEs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 43,416	$ 131,912		$ 40,028	$ 68,999
Accounts receivable, net		192,991	127,878
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		7,324	5,264
Total current assets		260,028	275,927
Property and equipment, net		266,583	237,739
Goodwill		451,662	256,491		$ 198,052
FCC licenses		489,335	322,040
Other intangible assets, net		314,361	194,129
Other noncurrent assets, net		53,165	127,776
Total assets	[1]	1,835,134	1,414,102
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		22,139	15,840
Interest payable		10,939	4,601
Other current liabilities		8,978	5,953
Total current liabilities		146,061	97,266
Debt		1,454,075	1,204,529
Other noncurrent liabilities		46,861	43,894
Total liabilities	[1]	1,748,761	1,357,565
Consolidated VIEs [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		119,909	49,131
Consolidated VIEs, Liabilities		40,715	17,870
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		6,137	1,440
Accounts receivable, net		16,400	7,594
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		3,460	2,657
Total current assets		25,997	11,691
Property and equipment, net		29,681	26,235
Goodwill		69,825	35,308
FCC licenses		74,312	46,727
Other intangible assets, net		58,053	30,333
Other noncurrent assets, net		22,572	71,008	[2]
Total assets		280,440	221,302
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		6,985	5,137
Interest payable		28	28
Other current liabilities		14,288	7,852
Total current liabilities		21,301	13,017
Debt		276,131	285,922	[2]
Other noncurrent liabilities		26,427	10,018
Total liabilities		323,859	308,957
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		2,910	12	[3]
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Property and equipment, net [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		4,004
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Goodwill [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		18,182	697	[3]
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | FCC licenses [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		74,312	46,727
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Other intangible assets, net [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		20,112	1,695	[3]
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Other noncurrent assets, net [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Assets		389
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Liabilities		14,288	7,852
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Noncurrent liabilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Consolidated VIEs, Liabilities		$ 26,427	$ 10,018
[1]	The consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain assets held by consolidated VIEs of $119.9 million and $49.1 million, respectively, which are not available to be used to settle the obligations of Nexstar. The consolidated total liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs of $40.7 million and $17.9 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. See Note 2 for additional information.
[2]	As discussed under Recent Accounting Pronouncements below, the Company early adopted the FASB issued guidance related to the presentation of debt financing costs and deferred tax assets and liabilities in the balance sheet. The guidance requires costs paid to third parties that are directly attributable to issuing a debt instrument to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the debt as opposed to an asset. Additionally, all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, should be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. As such, the amounts previously reported as current deferred tax assets and debt as of December 31, 2014 were decreased by $9.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively, and the amount previously reported as other noncurrent assets was increased by $6.2 million.
[3]	These balances relate to Parker Broadcasting of Colorado, LLC and were previously not presented separately on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. This correction is not considered material to the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014.

Summary of Significant Accoun42

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	Jan. 27, 2016USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)TelevisionStationReportingUnitSegmentshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)shares	Jan. 29, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2013USD ($)	Nov. 09, 2012USD ($)
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Number of station owned | TelevisionStation			30
Revenue Recognition [Abstract]
Barter revenue			$ 37,700	$ 22,700	$ 22,800
Barter expense			37,700	22,700	22,800
Revenue from trade transactions			9,400	8,500	8,700
Trade expense			$ 9,000	8,700	7,900
Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Network affiliation agreements useful life			15 years
Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Advertising Expense			$ 3,400	$ 2,700	$ 2,600
Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Stock options and restricted stock units with potentially dilutive effect (in shares) | shares			766,000	720,000	3,418,000
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | Segment			1
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Decrease in other noncurrent assets			$ (293)	$ (333)	$ (97)
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Decrease in other noncurrent assets				(6,400)
Decrease in current deferred tax assets				(41,700)
Decrease in noncurrent deferred tax liability				(32,300)
Increase in noncurrent deferred tax assets				$ 9,400
Operating Segment [Member]
Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Number of reporting units | ReportingUnit			55
All Other Segments [Member]
Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Number of reporting units | ReportingUnit			2
Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Network affiliation agreements useful life			15 years	15 years	15 years
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Increase decrease in debt				$ (3,200)
Decrease in other noncurrent assets				6,200
Decrease in current deferred tax assets				(9,400)
Nonconsolidated VIEs [Member]
Variable Interest Entity Nonconsolidated Carrying Amount Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Accounts payable for fees			$ 800	500
Receivable for advertisements			1,000	700
Payments made under outsourcing agreement			1,200	1,400	$ 5,300
Term Loans and Publicly-held Notes [Member]
Deferred Finance Costs [Abstract]
Deferred financing costs			15,900	15,800
Term Loans and Publicly-held Notes [Member] | New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Increase decrease in debt				(15,800)
Decrease in other noncurrent assets				(15,800)
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Deferred Finance Costs [Abstract]
Deferred financing costs			$ 800	$ 1,200
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Debt instrument principal amount						$ 275,000
Interest rate (in hundredths)			6.125%			6.125%
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Debt instrument principal amount							$ 275,000	$ 250,000
Interest rate (in hundredths)			6.875%	6.875%				6.875%
Nexstar [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Proceeds from long-term debt			$ 145,000
Repayment of debt			$ 145,000
White Knight [Member] | Consolidated VIEs [Member]
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Number of station owned | TelevisionStation			3
WVMH [Member] | Nonconsolidated VIEs [Member]
Variable Interest Entity Nonconsolidated Carrying Amount Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Number of stations proposed to acquire | TelevisionStation			4
WVMH [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity Nonconsolidated Carrying Amount Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Aggregate base fee			$ 7,500
Subsequent Event [Member] | Nexstar [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Proceeds from long-term debt		$ 54,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | Media General Future Acquisition [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Business acquisition estimated value	$ 2,000,000
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 4,700,000

Summary of Significant Accoun43

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated VIEs (Parenthetical) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Increase in other noncurrent assets	$ (293)	$ (333)	$ (97)
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Decrease in current deferred tax assets		(41,700)
Increase in other noncurrent assets		(6,400)
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] | Consolidated VIEs [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Decrease in current deferred tax assets		(9,400)
Increase decrease in debt		(3,200)
Increase in other noncurrent assets		$ 6,200

Summary of Significant Accoun44

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	30,622	31,262	31,325	31,196	30,962	30,888	30,641	30,603	31,100	30,774	29,897
Dilutive effect of equity incentive plan instruments									991	1,229
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	31,580	32,151	32,382	32,256	32,102	32,067	31,932	31,909	32,091	32,003	29,897

Acquisitions and Dispositions -

Acquisitions and Dispositions - CCA - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)TelevisionStationMarket	Dec. 01, 2014USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)		Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)		Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)		Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)TelevisionStationMarket	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)TelevisionStationMarket	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Proceeds from disposal of a station																$ 27,005
Proceeds from disposals of property and equipment																3,624	$ 89	$ 219
Non controlling interest, Fair value	$ 4,000			$ 5,699								$ 4,000				$ 5,699	4,000
Network affiliation agreements useful life																15 years
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations				252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833	$ 896,377	631,311	502,330
Operating income (loss)				$ 67,346		$ 48,315		$ 52,542		$ 37,904		$ 68,899	$ 41,696	$ 34,942	$ 27,700	$ 206,107	$ 173,237	$ 103,241
Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Network affiliation agreements useful life																15 years	15 years	15 years
Eliminations [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Proceeds from disposal of a station																$ (43,300)	$ (15,300)
Proceeds from disposals of property and equipment																(176)		$ (2,917)
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations																(74,986)	$ (52,340)	(50,880)
CCA [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition date	Jan. 1, 2015
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 278,100
Number of full television stations acquired | TelevisionStation	14											14					14
Number of television market of stations acquired | Market	10											10					10
Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business		$ 43,000	$ 27,000
Cash paid in business acquisition	$ 251,100
Acquisition related costs																500	$ 700	$ 800
One time employment charges																600
Proceeds from disposal of a station	27,400
Deposits and payments for acquisitions		$ 43,000	$ 27,000
Proceeds from disposals of property and equipment	800
Loss on disposal of property and equipment	$ (500)
New television markets entered | Market	7											7					7
New market duopolies operated | Market	4											4					4
Non controlling interest, Fair value	$ 2,900											$ 2,900					$ 2,900
Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in goodwill																600
Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in deferred tax liabilities																1,600
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations																107,900
Operating income (loss)																$ 34,900
CCA [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Network affiliation agreements useful life	15 years
CCA [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets	6 months
CCA [Member] | Eliminations [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 43,300
Proceeds from disposal of a station	$ 43,300
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions46

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Dec. 31, 2015

Oct. 01, 2015

Feb. 13, 2015

Feb. 02, 2015

Jan. 29, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 01, 2014

Jun. 13, 2014

May. 15, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 16, 2013

Feb. 28, 2013

Jan. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 451,662

$ 256,491

$ 198,052

CCA [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash

2,323

Accounts receivable

19,975

Broadcast rights

10,233

Deferred tax assets

247

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

257

Property and equipment

26,012

FCC licenses

71,465

Goodwill

120,370

Other assets

59

Total assets acquired and consolidated

344,978

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(10,467)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(4,703)

Less: Taxes payable

(18,613)

Less: Other current liabilities

(336)

Less: Deferred tax liabilities

(57,022)

Less: Other noncurrent liabilities

(221)

Less: Noncontrolling interest in a consolidated VIE

(2,900)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

250,716

CCA [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

86,219

CCA [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 7,818

KASW [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Accounts receivable

$ 3,544

Broadcast rights

8,771

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

24

Property and equipment

987

FCC licenses

35,566

Goodwill

32,203

Total assets acquired and consolidated

81,808

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(10,291)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(739)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

70,778

KASW [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 713

Yashi [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash

$ 1,470

Accounts receivable

6,788

Property and equipment

114

Goodwill

21,353

Other assets

15

Total assets acquired and consolidated

48,088

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(7,641)

Less: Taxes payable

(108)

Less: Deferred tax liabilities

(6,985)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

33,354

Yashi [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 18,348

KLAS [ Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash

$ 18

Accounts receivable

6,654

Broadcast rights

58

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

438

Property and equipment

19,238

FCC licenses

60,627

Goodwill

15,520

Total assets acquired and consolidated

152,073

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(58)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(1,051)

Less: Other current liabilities

(201)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

150,763

KLAS [ Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 49,520

Kixer [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash

$ 251

Accounts receivable

978

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

4

Property and equipment

19

Goodwill

6,958

Total assets acquired and consolidated

14,299

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(735)

Less: Deferred tax liabilities

(2,109)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

11,455

Kixer [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 6,089

Citadel [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Broadcast rights

$ 269

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

305

Property and equipment

10,613

FCC licenses

24,700

Goodwill

30,195

Other assets

1,807

Total assets acquired and consolidated

97,416

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(269)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(397)

Less: Deferred tax liabilities

(8,801)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

87,949

Citadel [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

26,129

Citadel [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 3,398

Internet Broadcasting Systems [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Accounts receivable

$ 631

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

154

Property and equipment

2,851

Goodwill

6,396

Total assets acquired and consolidated

20,885

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(1,119)

Less: Deferred revenue

(976)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

18,790

Internet Broadcasting Systems [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 10,853

ETG [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash

$ 433

Accounts receivable

210

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

84

Property and equipment

75

Goodwill

4,432

Total assets acquired and consolidated

9,563

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(368)

Less: Deferred revenue

(219)

Less: Deferred tax liabilities

(1,792)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

7,184

ETG [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 4,329

Gray TV [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Accounts receivable

$ 1,831

Broadcast rights

98

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

75

Property and equipment

12,513

FCC licenses

5,950

Goodwill

4,895

Total assets acquired and consolidated

34,959

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(98)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(361)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

34,500

Gray TV [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

7,719

Gray TV [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

1,878

KFQX [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

FCC licenses

1,539

Goodwill

697

Total assets acquired and consolidated

4,000

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(13)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

3,987

KFQX [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

1,744

KFQX [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 20

Grant [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash

$ 1,834

Accounts receivable

7,751

Broadcast rights

9,213

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

157

Property and equipment

22,971

FCC licenses

25,531

Goodwill

41,246

Other assets

34

Total assets acquired and consolidated

139,452

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(10,337)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(4,107)

Less: Capital lease obligation

(4,446)

Less: Software agreement obligation

(562)

Less: Taxes payable

(5,832)

Less: Deferred tax liabilities

(21,755)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

92,413

Grant [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

27,614

Grant [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 3,101

KLRT/KASN [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Broadcast rights

$ 2,279

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

71

Property and equipment

11,153

FCC licenses

16,827

Goodwill

12,727

Other assets

7

Total assets acquired and consolidated

62,577

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(2,492)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(386)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

59,699

KLRT/KASN [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

17,002

KLRT/KASN [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 2,511

KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Broadcast rights

$ 72

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

351

Property and equipment

9,343

FCC licenses

14,318

Goodwill

1,077

Total assets acquired and consolidated

35,778

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(72)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(196)

Less: Deferred revenue

(57)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

35,453

KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

9,307

KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

1,310

KSEE [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

140

Property and equipment

7,350

FCC licenses

7,385

Goodwill

3,838

Total assets acquired and consolidated

26,690

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(194)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

26,496

KSEE [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

7,870

KSEE [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 107

WFFF/WVNY [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Broadcast rights

$ 1,030

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

150

Property and equipment

7,100

FCC licenses

2,797

FCC licenses of consolidated VIEs

2,797

Goodwill

1,787

Total assets acquired and consolidated

18,219

Less: Broadcast rights payable

(1,145)

Less: Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(504)

Less: Deferred revenue

(19)

Net assets acquired and consolidated

16,551

WFFF/WVNY [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

2,119

WFFF/WVNY [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Finite-lived intangible assets

$ 439

Acquisitions and Dispositions47

Acquisitions and Dispositions - KASW - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)

Jan. 29, 2015

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262,000

[1]

$ 223,031,000

[1]

$ 219,349,000

[1]

$ 201,735,000

[1]

$ 192,804,000

$ 157,744,000

$ 146,930,000

$ 133,833,000

$ 896,377,000

$ 631,311,000

$ 502,330,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346,000

$ 48,315,000

$ 52,542,000

$ 37,904,000

$ 68,899,000

$ 41,696,000

$ 34,942,000

$ 27,700,000

$ 206,107,000

$ 173,237,000

$ 103,241,000

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Interest rate

6.125%

6.125%

6.125%

6.125%

KASW [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 70,800,000

Acquisition related costs

$ 0

Acquisition date

Jan. 29, 2015

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 19,600,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 9,300,000

KASW [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

KASW [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

8 months

KASW [Member] | Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Interest rate

6.125%

6.125%

6.125%

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions48

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Yashi - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 29, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations		$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833		$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Operating income (loss)		$ 67,346		$ 48,315		$ 52,542		$ 37,904		$ 68,899	$ 41,696	$ 34,942	$ 27,700		$ 206,107	$ 173,237	$ 103,241
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.125%												6.125%	6.125%			6.125%
Yashi [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 33,400
Acquisition date	Feb. 2, 2015
Acquisition related costs														$ 100
Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in accounts receivable														(1,700)
Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in software and other intangible assets														(4,000)
Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in deferred tax liabilities														(1,600)
Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in goodwill														4,400
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations														18,800
Operating income (loss)														$ (3,300)
Yashi [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets	3 years
Yashi [Member] | Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.125%												6.125%	6.125%
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions49

Acquisitions and Dispositions - KLAS - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 13, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 29, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Network affiliation agreements useful life															15 years
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations		$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833		$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Operating income (loss)		$ 67,346		$ 48,315		$ 52,542		$ 37,904		$ 68,899	$ 41,696	$ 34,942	$ 27,700		$ 206,107	$ 173,237	$ 103,241
Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Network affiliation agreements useful life															15 years	15 years	15 years
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.125%												6.125%	6.125%			6.125%
KLAS [ Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 150,800
Acquisition related costs															$ 100	$ 100
Acquisition date	Feb. 13, 2015
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations														$ 32,700
Operating income (loss)														$ 6,600
KLAS [ Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Network affiliation agreements useful life	15 years
KLAS [ Member] | Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.125%												6.125%	6.125%
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions50

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Kixer - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations		$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833	$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Operating income (loss)		67,346		$ 48,315		$ 52,542		$ 37,904		$ 68,899	$ 41,696	$ 34,942	$ 27,700	206,107	$ 173,237	$ 103,241
Kixer [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition date	Oct. 1, 2015
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 8,500
Maximum Earnout Payment	$ 7,000
Acquisition related costs														$ 100
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations		1,700
Operating income (loss)		$ 400
Kixer [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets	3 years 6 months
Kixer [Member] | Carrying Reported Amount Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair Value of Earnout Payment	$ 3,000
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions51

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Citadel - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands

Mar. 13, 2014USD ($)Market

Sep. 16, 2013USD ($)TelevisionStationMarket

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262

[1]

$ 223,031

[1]

$ 219,349

[1]

$ 201,735

[1]

$ 192,804

$ 157,744

$ 146,930

$ 133,833

$ 896,377

$ 631,311

$ 502,330

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346

$ 48,315

$ 52,542

$ 37,904

$ 68,899

$ 41,696

$ 34,942

$ 27,700

$ 206,107

$ 173,237

$ 103,241

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

Citadel [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Variable interest entity, qualitative or quantitative information, date involvement began

Sep. 16, 2013

Number of television stations to be acquired | TelevisionStation

3

Number of television markets of stations to be acquired | Market

3

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 87,900

Cash paid in business acquisition

$ 22,000

Acquisition date

Mar. 13, 2014

Decrease in goodwill recorded in acquisition

$ (19)

New television markets entered | Market

3

Acquisition related costs

$ 100

$ 400

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 6,900

30,500

Operating income (loss)

$ 800

$ 8,200

Citadel [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

1 year

Citadel [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Citadel [Member] | KCAU and WHBF [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash paid in business acquisition

44,900

Goodwill expected to be deductible for tax purposes

$ 10,700

Indefinite lived intangible assets expected to be deductible for tax purposes

14,700

Finite lived intangible assets expected to be deductible for tax purposes

15,100

Citadel [Member] | WOI [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Cash paid in business acquisition

$ 21,000

Goodwill not deductible for tax purposes until disposal

19,500

Indefinite lived intangible assets not deductible for tax purposes until disposal

10,000

Finite lived intangible assets not deductible for tax purposes until disposal

$ 11,000

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions52

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Internet Broadcasting Systems - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations		$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833		$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Operating income (loss)		$ 67,346		$ 48,315		$ 52,542		$ 37,904		$ 68,899	$ 41,696	$ 34,942	$ 27,700		$ 206,107	173,237	$ 103,241
Internet Broadcasting Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition date	Apr. 1, 2014
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 18,800
Acquisition related costs																100
One time employment charges																$ 500
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations														$ 15,800
Operating income (loss)														$ (900)
Internet Broadcasting Systems [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets	5 years
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions53

Acquisitions and Dispositions - ETG - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	May. 15, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations		$ 252,262,000	[1]	$ 223,031,000	[1]	$ 219,349,000	[1]	$ 201,735,000	[1]	$ 192,804,000	$ 157,744,000	$ 146,930,000	$ 133,833,000		$ 896,377,000	$ 631,311,000	$ 502,330,000
Operating income (loss)		$ 67,346,000		$ 48,315,000		$ 52,542,000		$ 37,904,000		$ 68,899,000	$ 41,696,000	$ 34,942,000	$ 27,700,000		$ 206,107,000	173,237,000	$ 103,241,000
ETG [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition date	May 15, 2014
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 7,200,000
Acquisition related costs																$ 0
Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations														$ 3,000,000
Operating income (loss)														$ (200,000)
ETG [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets	5 years
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions54

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Gray TV - Additional Information (Details)

Jun. 13, 2014USD ($)Market

May. 27, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262,000

[1]

$ 223,031,000

[1]

$ 219,349,000

[1]

$ 201,735,000

[1]

$ 192,804,000

$ 157,744,000

$ 146,930,000

$ 133,833,000

$ 896,377,000

$ 631,311,000

$ 502,330,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346,000

$ 48,315,000

$ 52,542,000

$ 37,904,000

$ 68,899,000

$ 41,696,000

$ 34,942,000

$ 27,700,000

$ 206,107,000

$ 173,237,000

$ 103,241,000

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

Gray TV [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition date

Jun. 13, 2014

Cash paid in business acquisition

$ 34,500,000

New television markets entered | Market

2

Acquisition related costs

$ 100,000

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 9,800,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 3,900,000

Gray TV [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Gray TV [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

1 year 6 months

KFQX [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition related costs

$ 0

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 0

Operating income (loss)

$ 0

Purchase price of entities to be acquired

$ 4,000,000

Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business

$ 3,200,000

KFQX [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

KFQX [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

11 months

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions55

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Grant - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands

Dec. 01, 2014USD ($)TelevisionStationMarket

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2013USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Proceeds from disposal of a station

$ 27,005

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262

[1]

$ 223,031

[1]

$ 219,349

[1]

$ 201,735

[1]

$ 192,804

$ 157,744

$ 146,930

$ 133,833

$ 896,377

$ 631,311

$ 502,330

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346

$ 48,315

$ 52,542

$ 37,904

$ 68,899

$ 41,696

$ 34,942

$ 27,700

$ 206,107

$ 173,237

$ 103,241

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

Eliminations [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Proceeds from disposal of a station

$ (43,300)

$ (15,300)

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

(74,986)

(52,340)

$ (50,880)

Grant [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition date

Dec. 1, 2014

Number of full television stations acquired | TelevisionStation

7

Number of television market of stations acquired | Market

4

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 92,400

Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business

$ 8,500

Remaining purchase price paid to seller

$ 83,100

New television markets to be entered | Market

3

New market duopolies to be operated | Market

3

Acquisition related costs

$ 300

Estimated taxes payable

$ 6,600

Estimated deferred tax liabilities

$ 21,755

Measurement period adjustments, increase (decrease) in goodwill

(800)

Decrease in taxes payable

$ (800)

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

3,600

Operating income (loss)

$ 300

Grant [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Grant [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

5 months

Grant [Member] | Eliminations [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 15,300

Proceeds from disposal of a station

$ 15,300

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions56

Acquisitions and Dispositions - KLRT/KASN (Newport) - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)

Jan. 03, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Jul. 18, 2012

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt

$ 421,950,000

$ 237,275,000

$ 654,563,000

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262,000

[1]

$ 223,031,000

[1]

$ 219,349,000

[1]

$ 201,735,000

[1]

$ 192,804,000

$ 157,744,000

$ 146,930,000

$ 133,833,000

$ 896,377,000

631,311,000

502,330,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346,000

$ 48,315,000

$ 52,542,000

$ 37,904,000

$ 68,899,000

$ 41,696,000

$ 34,942,000

$ 27,700,000

$ 206,107,000

$ 173,237,000

$ 103,241,000

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

KLRT/KASN [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition date

Jan. 1, 2013

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 59,700,000

Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business

$ 6,000,000

Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt

$ 60,000,000

Acquisition related costs

$ 0

$ 100,000

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

20,400,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 9,400,000

KLRT/KASN [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

KLRT/KASN [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

1 year

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions57

Acquisitions and Dispositions - KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE (Newport) - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Jan. 31, 2013

Nov. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262

[1]

$ 223,031

[1]

$ 219,349

[1]

$ 201,735

[1]

$ 192,804

$ 157,744

$ 146,930

$ 133,833

$ 896,377

$ 631,311

$ 502,330

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346

$ 48,315

$ 52,542

$ 37,904

$ 68,899

$ 41,696

$ 34,942

$ 27,700

$ 206,107

$ 173,237

$ 103,241

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business

$ 3,500

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 35,400

Acquisition date

Feb. 1, 2013

Acquisition related costs

$ 200

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 25,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 300

KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

KGET/KKEY-LP/KGPE [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

10 months

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions58

Acquisitions and Dispositions - KSEE - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)

May. 31, 2013

Jan. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262,000

[1]

$ 223,031,000

[1]

$ 219,349,000

[1]

$ 201,735,000

[1]

$ 192,804,000

$ 157,744,000

$ 146,930,000

$ 133,833,000

$ 896,377,000

$ 631,311,000

$ 502,330,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346,000

$ 48,315,000

$ 52,542,000

$ 37,904,000

$ 68,899,000

$ 41,696,000

$ 34,942,000

$ 27,700,000

$ 206,107,000

$ 173,237,000

$ 103,241,000

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

KSEE [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Variable interest entity, qualitative or quantitative information, date involvement began

Feb. 1, 2013

Acquisition date

May 31, 2013

Cash paid in business acquisition

$ 6,500,000

$ 20,000,000

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 26,500,000

Acquisition related costs

$ 0

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 6,600,000

Operating income (loss)

$ 4,700,000

KSEE [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

KSEE [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

5 months

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions59

Acquisitions and Dispositions - WFFF/WVNY - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Feb. 28, 2013

Nov. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 252,262

[1]

$ 223,031

[1]

$ 219,349

[1]

$ 201,735

[1]

$ 192,804

$ 157,744

$ 146,930

$ 133,833

$ 896,377

$ 631,311

$ 502,330

Operating income (loss)

$ 67,346

$ 48,315

$ 52,542

$ 37,904

$ 68,899

$ 41,696

$ 34,942

$ 27,700

$ 206,107

$ 173,237

$ 103,241

Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

15 years

15 years

WFFF/WVNY [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition date

Mar. 1, 2013

Purchase price of entities acquired

$ 16,600

Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business

$ 800

Acquisition related costs

$ 100

Revenue included in consolidated statements of operations

$ 10,100

Operating income (loss)

$ 1,800

WFFF/WVNY [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Network affiliation agreements useful life

15 years

WFFF/WVNY [Member] | Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Weighted average estimated useful life of other intangible assets

6 months

[1]

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Acquisitions and Dispositions60

Acquisitions and Dispositions - KCWI - Additional Information (Details) - KCWI [Member] - USD ($)	Oct. 24, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price of entities to be acquired	$ 3,500,000
Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business	$ 200,000
Acquisition related costs		$ 0

Acquisitions and Dispositions61

Acquisitions and Dispositions - WVMH - Additional Information (Details) - WVMH [Member] $ in Millions	Jan. 04, 2016USD ($)	Nov. 16, 2015USD ($)TelevisionStation	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of television stations to be acquired | TelevisionStation		4
Purchase price of entities to be acquired		$ 130
Deposits and payments for acquisitions		$ 6.5
Acquisition related costs			$ 0.1
Subsequent Event [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid in business acquisition	$ 65
Remaining purchase price expected to be paid	$ 65

Acquisitions and Dispositions62

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Media General - Additional Information (Details) - Media General Future Acquisition [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Jan. 27, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 17, 2016
Subsequent Event [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Outstanding equity acquired, price per share	$ 10.55
Business acquisition estimated value	$ 2,000
Termination fee receivable by company on superior proposal	80
Termination fee receivable by company when shareholder vote not obtained	20
Termination fee payable by company under certain circumstances	80
Termination fee payable by company when shareholder vote not obtained	20
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 4,700
Nexstar [Member] | Class A Common Stock [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition related costs		$ 2.6
Nexstar [Member] | Class A Common Stock [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of shares issued for each share outstanding	12.49%
Business acquisition estimated value	$ 2,000
Common stock market , price per share			$ 39.08

Acquisitions and Dispositions63

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Reiten - Additional Information (Details) - Reiten [Member] $ in Millions	Feb. 01, 2016USD ($)TelevisionStation	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition date	Feb. 1, 2016
Deposit paid upon signing an agreement to acquire a business		$ 2.2
Subsequent Event [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of television stations acquired | TelevisionStation	4
Purchase price of entities acquired	$ 44

Acquisitions and Dispositions64

Acquisitions and Dispositions - Unaudited Pro Forma Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Net revenue	$ 896,377	$ 789,406	$ 565,873
Income before income taxes	130,477	137,005	3,111
Net income (loss)	79,686	78,252	(95)
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar	$ 79,746	$ 74,899	$ (574)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Nexstar - basic	$ 2.56	$ 2.43	$ (0.02)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Nexstar - diluted	$ 2.48	$ 2.34	$ (0.02)

Property and Equipment - Schedu

Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 517,811	$ 454,030
Less: accumulated depreciation	(251,228)	(216,291)
Property and equipment, net	266,583	237,739
Buildings and improvements [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 73,343	$ 65,050
Estimated useful life	39 years	39 years
Land [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 29,765	$ 16,699
Leasehold improvements [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	9,616	7,633
Studio and transmission equipment [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 339,041	$ 305,075
Studio and transmission equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years	5 years
Studio and transmission equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	15 years	15 years
Computer equipment [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 31,731	$ 26,031
Estimated useful life	2 years 6 months	2 years 6 months
Computer equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years	3 years
Computer equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years	5 years
Furniture And Fixtures
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 10,824	$ 10,097
Estimated useful life	7 years
Vehicles [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 15,811	14,329
Estimated useful life	5 years
Construction in progress [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 7,680	$ 9,116

Property and Equipment - Additi

Property and Equipment - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2001
Telecommunications tower facilities [Member]
Deferred Gain on Sale and Leaseback [Abstract]
Gain on sale of property			$ 9.1
Telecommunications tower facilities [Member] | Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Deferred Gain on Sale and Leaseback [Abstract]
Deferred gain on sale of assets	$ 1.9	$ 2.3
Telecommunications tower facilities [Member] | Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Deferred Gain on Sale and Leaseback [Abstract]
Deferred gain on sale of assets	0.4	0.4
Computer equipment [Member]
Software [Abstract]
Capitalized software	5.8	4.3
Current liability related to Software	3	1.6
Non-current liability related to Software	$ 4.2	$ 4.2
Estimated useful life	2 years 6 months	2 years 6 months
Capital Leased Property and Equipment [Member]
Software [Abstract]
Capital lease obligations	$ 4.3	$ 4.6
Capital lease obligations, current	0.1	0.1
Capital lease obligations, noncurrent	$ 4.4	$ 4.5

Intangible Assets and Goodwil67

Intangible Assets and Goodwill - Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	15 years
Gross	$ 699,513	$ 530,940
Accumulated Amortization	(385,152)	(336,811)
Net	$ 314,361	$ 194,129
Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	15 years	15 years	15 years
Gross	$ 614,592	$ 478,888
Accumulated Amortization	(338,016)	(310,097)
Net	$ 276,576	168,791
Network affiliation agreements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	20 years
Network affiliation agreements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	12 years
Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 84,921	52,052
Accumulated Amortization	(47,136)	(26,714)
Net	$ 37,785	$ 25,338
Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	15 years	15 years
Other definite-lived intangible assets [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years		1 year

Intangible Assets and Goodwil68

Intangible Assets and Goodwill - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	15 years
Goodwill	$ 451,662,000	$ 256,491,000	$ 198,052,000
Goodwill impairment charges	0
Reporting units [Member] | Nexstar’s digital media [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 10,400,000
Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	15 years	15 years	15 years
Terminated Customer Contracts [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Acquired contracts, fair value				$ 1,400,000
Contract termination fees received			$ 5,500,000
Additional amortization of intangible assets			$ 1,000,000
Minimum [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	12 years
Maximum [Member] | Network affiliation agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, in years	20 years

Intangible Assets and Goodwil69

Intangible Assets and Goodwill - Estimated Amortization Expense of Definite-Lived Intangibles Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense Current And Five Succeeding Fiscal Years [Abstract]
2,016	$ 41,917
2,017	32,815
2,018	27,789
2,019	26,044
2,020	22,408
Thereafter	163,388
Net	$ 314,361	$ 194,129

Intangible Assets and Goodwil70

Intangible Assets and Goodwill - Goodwill and FCC Licenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Gross	$ 497,653	$ 302,482	$ 244,043
Goodwill, Accumulated Impairment	(45,991)	(45,991)	(45,991)
Goodwill, Net	451,662	256,491	198,052
Goodwill Acquisitions, Gross	195,171	58,439
Goodwill Acquisitions, Net	195,171	58,439
Licensing Agreements [Member]
FCC Licenses [Abstract]
FCC Licenses, Gross	538,756	371,461	338,441
FCC Licenses, Accumulated Impairment	(49,421)	(49,421)	(49,421)
FCC Licenses, Net	489,335	322,040	$ 289,020
FCC Licenses Acquisitions, Gross	167,295	33,020
FCC Licenses Acquisitions, Net	$ 167,295	$ 33,020

Accrued Expenses - Accrued Expe

Accrued Expenses - Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Compensation and related taxes	$ 15,810	$ 13,026
Network affiliation fees	22,324	11,010
Other	22,350	12,771
Accrued expenses	$ 60,484	$ 36,807

Debt - Long Term Debt (Details)

Debt - Long Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt	$ 1,476,214	$ 1,220,369
Less: current portion	(22,139)	(15,840)
Debt, noncurrent	1,454,075	1,204,529
Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loans [Member]
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt	682,223	695,956
Revolving loans [Member]
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt	2,000	5,500
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Due 2020 [Member]
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt	519,777	$ 518,913
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt	$ 272,214

Debt - Long Term Debt (Parenthe

Debt - Long Term Debt (Parenthetical) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Jan. 29, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Nov. 09, 2012
Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loans [Member]
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt financing costs and discount	$ 8,715		$ 10,823
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Due 2020 [Member]
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt financing costs and discount	$ 5,223		$ 6,087
Interest rate	6.875%		6.875%	6.875%
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Long term Debt [Abstract]
Debt financing costs and discount	$ 2,786
Interest rate	6.125%	6.125%

Debt - Additional Information (

Debt - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	Apr. 19, 2010	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 27, 2016	Jan. 29, 2015	Oct. 31, 2013	Nov. 09, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 1,476,214,000	$ 1,220,369,000
Repayment of debt				$ 166,290,000	72,431,000	$ 438,835,000
Extinguishment of Debt Disclosures [Abstract]
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt					(71,000)	(34,724,000)
Debt Covenants [Abstract]
Maximum consolidated total net leverage ratio				6.50 to 1.00
Maximum consolidated first lien net leverage ratio				4.0 to 1.00
Minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio				1.20 to 1.00
Subsequent Event [Member] | Media General Future Acquisition [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity								$ 4,700,000,000
Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 682,223,000	695,956,000
Revolving loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				2,000,000	5,500,000
Available borrowing capacity				103,000,000
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 272,214,000
Maturity date				Feb. 15, 2022
Debt instrument principal amount									$ 275,000,000
Interest rate				6.125%					6.125%
Frequency of periodic interest payments				semiannually
Aggregate principal amount of debt that can be redeemed through equity offerings				40.00%
Redemption price as a percentage of debt principal that can be redeemed through equity offerings				106.125%
Redemption price as percentage of debt principal amount that can be redeemed at any time prior to a specified date				100.00%
Redemption price of a debt as percentage of par value upon occurrence of change of control. (in hundredths)				101.00%
Minimum debt holders that may declare debt due and payable upon default				25.00%
Debt issuance cost				$ 3,000,000	100,000
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 519,777,000	$ 518,913,000
Debt instrument principal amount										$ 275,000,000	$ 250,000,000
Interest rate				6.875%	6.875%						6.875%
Frequency of periodic interest payments				semiannually
Aggregate principal amount of debt that can be redeemed through equity offerings				35.00%
Redemption price as a percentage of debt principal that can be redeemed through equity offerings				106.875%
Redemption price of a debt as percentage of par value upon occurrence of change of control. (in hundredths)				101.00%
Minimum debt holders that may declare debt due and payable upon default				25.00%
Debt issuance cost						$ 3,500,000	$ 4,700,000
Borrowed debt at discount percentage										100.25%
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Second Lien Notes Due 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument principal amount	$ 325,000,000
Interest rate	8.875%
Senior secured second lien notes due	2,017
Redemption price as percentage of par value (in hundredths)						108.72%
Extinguishment of Debt Disclosures [Abstract]
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt						$ (34,300,000)
Nexstar [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 401,100,000	$ 410,400,000
Repayment of debt				$ 10,700,000	$ 4,000,000
Nexstar [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loan B-2 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date				Oct. 31, 2020
Percentage of debt amount payable in consecutively quarterly installments (in hundredths)				0.25%
Frequency of periodic payments				quarterly
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				3.75%	3.75%
Nexstar [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term A Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date				Jun. 30, 2018
Minimum percentage of debt amount to be repaid annually				5.00%
Maximum percentage of debt amount to be repaid annually				10.00%
Frequency of periodic payments				quarterly
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				2.20%	2.40%
Nexstar [Member] | Revolving loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from long-term debt				$ 145,000,000
Repayment of debt				145,000,000
Debt				$ 0	$ 0
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				2.20%	2.40%
Commitment fees				0.50%
Nexstar [Member] | Revolving loans [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from long-term debt			$ 54,000,000
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loan B-2 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 225,600,000	$ 226,900,000
Maturity date				Oct. 31, 2020
Percentage of debt amount payable in consecutively quarterly installments (in hundredths)				0.25%
Repayment of debt				$ 1,800,000	$ 1,800,000
Frequency of periodic payments				quarterly
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				3.75%	3.75%
Consolidated VIEs [Member] | Revolving loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt					$ 5,500,000
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				2.20%	2.40%
Debt paid amount		$ 5,500,000
Marshall Broadcasting Group Inc | Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term A Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 55,500,000	$ 58,700,000
Maturity date				Jun. 30, 2018
Minimum percentage of debt amount to be repaid annually				5.00%
Maximum percentage of debt amount to be repaid annually				10.00%
Repayment of debt				$ 3,300,000	800,000
Frequency of periodic payments				quarterly
Marshall Broadcasting Group Inc | Revolving loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 2,000,000	$ 0
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				2.20%	2.40%
Marshall Broadcasting Group Inc | Term Loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate during the period (in hundredths)				2.20%	2.40%
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Decrease in other noncurrent assets and debt					$ (15,800,000)

Debt - Fair Value of Debt (Deta

Debt - Fair Value of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loans [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[1]	$ 682,223	$ 695,956
Notes Payable to Banks [Member] | Term Loans [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[1]	678,045	697,420
Revolving loans [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[1]	2,000	5,500
Revolving loans [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[1]	1,961	5,386
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Due 2020 [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[2]	519,777	518,913
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Due 2020 [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[2]	534,188	$ 547,313
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022 | Carrying Amount [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[2]	272,214
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022 | Fair Value [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value of debt [Line Items]
Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Debt	[2]	$ 269,500
[1]	The fair value of senior secured credit facilities is computed based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities. These fair value measurements are considered Level 3, as significant inputs to the fair value calculation are unobservable in the market.
[2]	The fair value of Nexstar’s fixed rate debt is estimated based on bid prices obtained from an investment banking firm that regularly makes a market for these financial instruments. These fair value measurements are considered Level 2, as quoted market prices are available for low volume trading of these securities.

Debt - Maturities of Debt (Deta

Debt - Maturities of Debt (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Debt Maturities [Abstract]
2,016	$ 22,139
2,017	30,094
2,018	168,614
2,019	4,982
2,020	992,109
Thereafter	275,000
Debt	$ 1,492,938

Contract Termination - Addition

Contract Termination - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2008USD ($)MarketStation	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Feb. 15, 2015USD ($)	Aug. 04, 2014USD ($)	May. 07, 2010USD ($)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Incentives as a reduction in selling, general and administrative expense		$ 1,169	$ 845	$ 820
Katz [Member]
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Number of stations transferred | Station	24
Number of markets entered for sales representation | Market	14
National sales representation contract termination payment made by new representative	$ 8,000
Term of national sales representation agreement	10 years
Present value of contract termination payments made by new national sales representative	$ 7,200				$ 1,500	$ 400	$ 200
Current portion of deferred representation fee incentive		1,200	800
Deferred representation fee incentive		2,200	2,200
Incentives as a reduction in selling, general and administrative expense		$ 1,200	$ 800	$ 800

Common Stock - Additional Infor

Common Stock - Additional Information (Details)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013shares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)VotingRight$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Aug. 10, 2015USD ($)
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Annual cash dividend declared (in dollars per share) | $ / shares		$ 0.76	$ 0.60	$ 0.48
Purchase of treasury stock | $		$ 48,660,000		$ 8,422,000
Treasury Stock, Shares		993,565
Treasury Stock [Member]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Purchase of treasury stock, shares		1,010,565		365,384
Purchase of treasury stock | $		$ 48,660,000		$ 8,422,000
Treasury Stock, Shares		(993,565)
Shares reissued in connection with stock option exercises	365,384	17,000		365,384
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock voting rights | VotingRight		1
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, shares				7,702,471
Number of shares sold by former principal stockholder (in shares)				7,337,087
Shares reissued in connection with stock option exercises			573,525	1,218,816
Share repurchase program authorized, amount | $					$ 100,000,000
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock voting rights | VotingRight		10
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, shares				(7,702,471)
Treasury Stock, Shares	0			0
Class C Common Stock [Member]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock voting rights | VotingRight		0

Stock-Based Compensation Plan79

Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options granted (in shares)	200,000
Restricted stock award, gross	210,000
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 11,400	$ 7,598	$ 2,080
Total unrecognized compensation cost	$ 25,800
Unrecognized compensation cost reorganization period	2 years 6 months
Shares Available for Grant, Balances	2,525,000	397,500
Shares Available for Grant, Equity Incentive Plans Shares Approved (in shares)	2,500,000
Outstanding Options at end of the period (in shares)	2,443,591
Two Thousand Fifteen Long Term Equity Incentive Plan
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Available for Grant, Balances	2,490,000
Shares Available for Grant, Equity Incentive Plans Shares Approved (in shares)	2,500,000
Two Thousand Twelve Long Term Equity Incentive Plan
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Available for Grant, Balances	35,000
Shares Available for Grant, Equity Incentive Plans Shares Approved (in shares)				1,500,000
Stock Options [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options granted (in shares)	200,000	797,500	0
Outstanding Options at end of the period (in shares)	2,443,591	2,742,275
Share based payment award expiration period	10 years
Number of options that can be exercised within six months grant date (in shares)	0
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised	$ 22,800	$ 26,500	$ 44,500
Aggregate fair value of options vested	$ 8,000	$ 2,100	$ 2,100
Stock Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based payment award vesting period	4 years
Cancellation period for unexercised vested options	30 days
Stock Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based payment award vesting period	5 years
Cancellation period for unexercised vested options	180 days
Restricted stock units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock award, gross	210,000	20,500
Restricted stock units unvested	225,375	20,500
Share-based payment award vesting period	4 years

Summary of Fair Value Options G

Summary of Fair Value Options Granted (Details) - Stock Options [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility	86.30%
Risk-free interest rates	1.60%
Expected life	7 years	7 years
Dividend yields	1.60%
Weighted-average grant date fair value per share	$ 31.45	$ 31.87
Minimum [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility		87.00%
Risk-free interest rates		2.10%
Dividend yields		1.10%
Maximum [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility		87.20%
Risk-free interest rates		2.30%
Dividend yields		1.50%

Summary of Stock Award Activity

Summary of Stock Award Activity and Related Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Outstanding Options, Shares Available for Grant [Roll Forward]
Shares Available for Grant, Balances (in shares)		397,500
Shares Available for Grant, 2015 Plan shares approved (in shares)		2,500,000
Shares Available for Grant, Options granted (in shares)		(200,000)
Shares Available for Grant, Restricted stock units awarded (in shares)		(210,000)
Shares Available for Grant, Forfeited/cancelled (in shares)		37,500
Shares Available for Grant, Balances (in shares)		2,525,000	397,500
Outstanding Options, Shares [Roll Forward]
Stock options granted (in shares)		200,000
Options Forfeited/cancelled (in shares)		(37,500)
Outstanding Options at end of the period (in shares)		2,443,591
Restricted Stock Units, Unvested Shares [Roll Forward]
Shares Available for Grant, Restricted stock units awarded (in shares)		(210,000)
Restricted Stock Units Unvested Shares, Restricted stock units awarded (in shares)		210,000
Stock Options [Member]
Outstanding Options, Shares Available for Grant [Roll Forward]
Shares Available for Grant, Options granted (in shares)		(200,000)	(797,500)	0
Shares Available for Grant, Forfeited/cancelled (in shares)		37,500
Outstanding Options, Shares [Roll Forward]
Outstanding Options at beginning of the period (in shares)		2,742,275
Stock options granted (in shares)		200,000	797,500	0
Options Exercised (in shares)		(461,184)
Options Forfeited/cancelled (in shares)		(37,500)
Outstanding Options at end of the period (in shares)		2,443,591	2,742,275
Outstanding Options Exercisable as of December 31, 2015 (in shares)		1,470,466
Outstanding Options Fully vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2015 (in shares)		2,422,963
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Outstanding Options Weighted-Average Exercise Price, beginning of period (in dollars per share)		$ 17.61
Options granted Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)		47.11
Option Exercised Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)		7.28
Options Forfeited/cancelled Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)		46.03
Outstanding Options Weighted-Average Exercise Price, end of period (in dollars per share)		21.54	$ 17.61
Outstanding Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)		11.39
Outstanding Options Fully vested and expected to vest Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)		$ 21.38
Outstanding Options Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		6 years 3 months 22 days
Outstanding Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		5 years 3 months 4 days
Outstanding Options Fully vested and expected to vest Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		6 years 3 months 18 days
Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value	[1]	$ 90,807
Outstanding Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	[1]	69,571
Outstanding Options Fully vested and expected to vest Aggregate Intrinsic Value	[1]	$ 90,424
Non-vested Options, Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested Shares, beginning of the period (in shares)		1,287,000
Non-vested Shares, Options granted (in shares)		200,000
Non-vested Shares, Vested (in shares)		(478,250)
Non-vested Shares, Forfeited/cancelled (in shares)		(35,625)
Non-vested Shares, end of the period (in shares)		973,125	1,287,000
Non-vested Shares, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Non-vested shares, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, beginning of the period (in dollars per share)		$ 21.48
Non-vested shares Options granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)		31.45	$ 31.87
Non-vested shares Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)		16.63
Non-vested shares Forfeited/cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)		31.96
Non-vested shares, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, end of the period (in dollars per share)		$ 25.53	$ 21.48
Restricted stock units [Member]
Outstanding Options, Shares Available for Grant [Roll Forward]
Shares Available for Grant, Restricted stock units awarded (in shares)		(210,000)	(20,500)
Restricted Stock Units, Unvested Shares [Roll Forward]
Restricted Stock Units Unvested Shares, beginning of the period (in shares)		20,500
Shares Available for Grant, Restricted stock units awarded (in shares)		(210,000)	(20,500)
Restricted Stock Units Unvested Shares, Vested (in shares)		(5,125)
Restricted Stock Units Unvested Shares, end of the period (in shares)		225,375	20,500
Restricted Stock Units, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Restricted Stock Units Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, beginning of the period (in dollars per share)		$ 44.58
Restricted Stock Units, Awarded, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)		45.78
Restricted Stock Units, Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)		44.58
Restricted Stock Units, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, end of the period (in dollars per share)		$ 45.69	$ 44.58
[1]	Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the closing market price of Nexstar’s common stock on the last day of the fiscal period, which was $58.70 on December 31, 2015, and the stock option exercise prices multiplied by the number of options outstanding.

Summary of Stock Award Activi82

Summary of Stock Award Activity and Related Information (Parenthetical) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015$ / shares
Stock Options [Member] | Nexstar [Member] | Class A Common Stock [Member]
Non-vested Shares, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Common stock market price at the end of reporting period (in dollars per share)	$ 58.70

Income Taxes - Schedule of Comp

Income Taxes - Schedule of Components of Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current tax expense (benefit):
Federal	$ (108)	$ 402	$ (681)
State	5,120	2,230	480
Current tax (benefit) expense	5,012	2,632	(201)
Deferred tax expense (benefit):
Federal	43,772	38,176	2,069
State	(97)	5,293	732
Deferred tax expense (benefit)	43,675	43,469	2,801
Income tax expense	$ 48,687	$ 46,101	$ 2,600

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	May. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Statutory federal income tax rate (in hundredths)		35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Gross unrecognized tax benefits		$ 3,700,000	$ 3,700,000	$ 3,700,000
Accrued interest on unrecognized tax benefits		0	0	$ 0
Increase of equity if deferred tax assets are ultimately realized		13,200,000	$ 13,200,000
Conversion of stock shares by principal stockholder (in shares)	3,865,384
2,016		181,800,000
2,017		91,200,000
2,018		45,400,000
2,019		20,900,000
Annually thereafter		20,900,000
Federal [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards		222,000,000
State [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards		$ 105,800,000

Income Taxes - Schedule of Effe

Income Taxes - Schedule of Effective Income Tax Expense Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Effective income tax expense reconciliation [Abstract]
Income tax expense at 35% statutory federal rate	$ 43,774	$ 38,752	$ 285
State and local taxes, net of federal benefit	3,315	5,373	599
Nondeductible compensation	652	690	479
Nondeductible acquisition costs	251	342	611
Nondeductible meals and entertainment	417	381	321
Other	278	563	305
Income tax expense	$ 48,687	$ 46,101	$ 2,600

Income Taxes - Schedule of Co86

Income Taxes - Schedule of Components of Net Deferred Tax Asset Liability (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 69,547	$ 106,890
Compensation	10,918	7,459
Rent	3,418	3,288
Other	9,352	6,055
Total deferred tax assets	93,235	123,692
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(13,106)	(9,528)
Other intangible assets	(46,983)	(18,933)
Goodwill	(29,872)	(24,352)
FCC licenses	(89,438)	(58,197)
Other	(13)	(114)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(179,412)	(111,124)
Net deferred tax assets		$ 12,568
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (86,177)

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Payments for Un-booked Broadcast Rights (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Broadcast Rights Commitments [Abstract]
2,016	$ 12,313
2,017	9,336
2,018	4,952
2,019	2,963
2,020	869
Thereafter	1,438
Future minimum payment due for license agreement, total	$ 31,871

Commitments and Contingencies88

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)Station	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Operating Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease expense	$ 12	$ 7.1	$ 6.2
Collective Bargaining Agreements [Abstract]
Number of stations covered under collective bargaining agreements | Station	6
Nexstar [Member] | Financial Guarantee of Mission Debt [Member]
Guarantees of Mission and Marshall Debt [Abstract]
Maximum commitment under senior secured credit facility	$ 233.6
Commitment under senior secured credit facility at carrying value	225.6
Nexstar [Member] | Financial Guarantee of Marshall Debt [Member]
Guarantees of Mission and Marshall Debt [Abstract]
Commitment under senior secured credit facility at carrying value	$ 57.5

Commitments and Contingencies89

Commitments and Contingencies -Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Operating Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Operating Leases [Abstract]
2,016	$ 10,459
2,017	10,367
2,018	9,608
2,019	7,840
2,020	7,708
Thereafter	20,506
Operating leases future minimum payments due, total	$ 66,488

Commitments and Contingencies90

Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Capital Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Capital Leases [Abstract]
2,016	$ 361
2,017	331
2,018	315
2,019	328
2,020	341
Thereafter	6,333
Capital leases future minimum payments due, total	8,009
Less: Amount representing interest	3,487
Present value of future lease payments	$ 4,522

Segment Data - Summary of Segme

Segment Data - Summary of Segment Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenue		$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833	$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Depreciation														47,222	35,047	33,578
Amortization of intangible assets														48,475	25,850	30,148
Income from operations		67,346		$ 48,315		$ 52,542		$ 37,904		68,899	$ 41,696	$ 34,942	$ 27,700	206,107	173,237	103,241
Goodwill		451,662								256,491				451,662	256,491	198,052
Assets	[2]	1,835,134								1,414,102				1,835,134	1,414,102
Broadcasting [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenue														846,926	609,668	492,789
Depreciation														41,053	31,564	29,901
Amortization of intangible assets														35,845	21,932	27,235
Income from operations														266,919	216,724	131,865
Goodwill		412,965								245,665				412,965	245,665
Assets		1,660,737								1,136,474				1,660,737	1,136,474
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenue														49,451	21,643	9,541
Depreciation														6,169	3,483	3,677
Amortization of intangible assets														12,630	3,918	2,913
Income from operations														(60,812)	(43,487)	$ (28,624)
Goodwill		38,697								10,826				38,697	10,826
Assets		$ 174,397								$ 277,628				$ 174,397	$ 277,628
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.
[2]	The consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain assets held by consolidated VIEs of $119.9 million and $49.1 million, respectively, which are not available to be used to settle the obligations of Nexstar. The consolidated total liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs of $40.7 million and $17.9 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. See Note 2 for additional information.

Condensed Consolidating Finan92

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 29, 2015	Nov. 09, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements Captions [Line Items]
Decrease in other noncurrent assets	$ (293)	$ (333)	$ (97)
Other noncurrent liabilities	$ 411	$ (76)	$ (2,327)
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.875 % Due 2020 [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements Captions [Line Items]
Interest rate	6.875%	6.875%			6.875%
Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] | 6.125% Due 2022
Condensed Financial Statements Captions [Line Items]
Interest rate	6.125%			6.125%
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements Captions [Line Items]
Decrease in other current assets		$ (41,700)
Decrease in other noncurrent assets		(6,400)
Decrease in other current liabilities		(15,800)
Other noncurrent liabilities		$ (32,300)

Condensed Consolidating Finan93

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information - Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 43,416	$ 131,912	$ 40,028	$ 68,999
Accounts receivable, net		192,991	127,878
Other current assets		23,621	16,137
Total current assets		260,028	275,927
Property and equipment, net		266,583	237,739
Goodwill		451,662	256,491	198,052
FCC licenses		489,335	322,040
Other intangible assets, net		314,361	194,129
Other noncurrent assets, net		53,165	127,776
Total assets	[1]	1,835,134	1,414,102
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		22,139	15,840
Accounts payable		25,936	17,231
Other current liabilities		97,986	64,195
Total current liabilities		146,061	97,266
Debt		1,454,075	1,204,529
Other noncurrent liabilities		148,625	55,770
Total liabilities	[1]	1,748,761	1,357,565
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit)		80,674	52,537
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated variable interest entities		5,699	4,000
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		1,835,134	1,414,102
Eliminations [Member]
Current assets:
Amounts due from consolidated entities		(62,578)	(30,711)
Total current assets		(62,578)	(30,711)
Investments in subsidiaries		(223,263)	(125,076)
Amounts due from consolidated entities		(133,659)	(46,582)
Total assets		(419,500)	(202,369)
Current liabilities:
Amounts due to consolidated entities		(62,578)	(30,711)
Total current liabilities		(62,578)	(30,711)
Amounts due to consolidated entities		(133,659)	(46,582)
Total liabilities		(196,237)	(77,293)
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit)		(223,263)	(125,076)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		(419,500)	(202,369)
Nexstar [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
Current assets:
Investments in subsidiaries		184,332	125,076
Total assets		184,332	125,076
Current liabilities:
Amounts due to consolidated entities		63,309	13,763
Total liabilities		63,309	13,763
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit)		121,023	111,313
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		184,332	125,076
Nexstar Broadcasting [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		27,492	130,472	36,312	68,681
Accounts receivable, net		163,008	118,321
Amounts due from consolidated entities		10,600	844
Other current assets		19,984	13,055
Total current assets		221,084	262,692
Investments in subsidiaries		38,931
Amounts due from consolidated entities		133,659	46,582
Property and equipment, net		232,206	207,286
Goodwill		343,140	210,355
FCC licenses		415,024	275,313
Other intangible assets, net		228,936	148,381
Other noncurrent assets, net		30,539	51,625
Total assets		1,643,519	1,202,234
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		15,154	10,703
Accounts payable		14,705	15,338
Amounts due to consolidated entities		47,700	29,026
Other current liabilities		78,868	55,116
Total current liabilities		156,427	110,183
Debt		1,177,944	918,607
Other noncurrent liabilities		118,048	45,743
Total liabilities		1,452,419	1,074,533
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit)		191,100	127,701
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		1,643,519	1,202,234
Mission [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		4,361	880	$ 3,716	$ 318
Accounts receivable, net		9,370	6,895
Amounts due from consolidated entities		51,978	29,867
Other current assets		1,364	1,726
Total current assets		67,073	39,368
Property and equipment, net		21,891	24,166
Goodwill		32,489	32,489
FCC licenses		41,563	41,563
Other intangible assets, net		18,892	21,310
Other noncurrent assets, net		20,418	30,368
Total assets		202,326	189,264
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		2,335	1,837
Accounts payable		906	907
Other current liabilities		6,909	5,806
Total current liabilities		10,150	8,550
Debt		223,235	230,556
Other noncurrent liabilities		9,351	8,667
Total liabilities		242,736	247,773
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit)		(40,410)	(58,509)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		202,326	189,264
Non-Guarantors [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		11,563	560
Accounts receivable, net		20,613	2,662
Other current assets		2,273	1,356
Total current assets		34,449	4,578
Property and equipment, net		12,486	6,287
Goodwill		76,033	13,647
FCC licenses		32,748	5,164
Other intangible assets, net		66,533	24,438
Other noncurrent assets, net		2,208	45,783
Total assets		224,457	99,897
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt		4,650	3,300
Accounts payable		10,325	986
Amounts due to consolidated entities		14,878	1,685
Other current liabilities		12,209	3,273
Total current liabilities		42,062	9,244
Debt		52,896	55,366
Amounts due to consolidated entities		70,350	32,819
Other noncurrent liabilities		21,226	1,360
Total liabilities		186,534	98,789
Total Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. stockholders' equity (deficit)		32,224	(2,892)
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated variable interest entities		5,699	4,000
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		$ 224,457	$ 99,897
[1]	The consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain assets held by consolidated VIEs of $119.9 million and $49.1 million, respectively, which are not available to be used to settle the obligations of Nexstar. The consolidated total liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 include certain liabilities of consolidated VIEs of $40.7 million and $17.9 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to the general credit of Nexstar. See Note 2 for additional information.

Condensed Consolidating Finan94

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information - Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS [Abstract]
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)													$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Net revenue	$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833	896,377	631,311	502,330
Operating expenses:
Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													302,257	187,432	147,711
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													232,480	175,429	152,213
Amortization of broadcast rights													59,836	34,316	35,439
Amortization of intangible assets													48,475	25,850	30,148
Depreciation													47,222	35,047	33,578
Total operating expenses													690,270	458,074	399,089
Income from operations	67,346		48,315		52,542		37,904		68,899	41,696	34,942	27,700	206,107	173,237	103,241
Interest expense, net													(80,520)	(61,959)	(66,243)
Loss on extinguishment of debt														(71)	(34,724)
Other expenses													(517)	(556)	(1,459)
Income before income taxes	46,772		27,804		32,001		18,493		52,850	25,994	19,405	12,402	125,070	110,651	815
Income tax (expense) benefit													(48,687)	(46,101)	(2,600)
Net income (loss)													76,383	64,550	(1,785)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests													1,301
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.	$ 27,174		$ 17,282		$ 20,321		$ 12,907		$ 30,849	$ 15,404	$ 10,944	$ 7,353	77,684	64,550	(1,785)
Eliminations [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS [Abstract]
Revenue between consolidated entities													(74,986)	(52,340)	(50,880)
Net revenue													(74,986)	(52,340)	(50,880)
Operating expenses:
Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													(4)
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													(4,131)	(185)	(1,627)
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities													(70,851)	(52,155)	(49,253)
Total operating expenses													(74,986)	(52,340)	(50,880)
Equity in income of subsidiaries													(59,256)	(23,225)	(1,961)
Income before income taxes													(59,256)	(23,225)	(1,961)
Net income (loss)													(59,256)
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.													(59,256)	(23,225)	(1,961)
Nexstar [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
Operating expenses:
Equity in income of subsidiaries													59,256	23,225	1,961
Income before income taxes													59,256	23,225	1,961
Net income (loss)													59,256
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.													59,256	23,225	1,961
Nexstar Broadcasting [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS [Abstract]
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)													759,694	572,368	463,817
Revenue between consolidated entities													25,854	10,012	9,740
Net revenue													785,548	582,380	473,557
Operating expenses:
Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													233,530	157,988	131,991
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													213,415	160,186	145,726
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities													44,997	42,079	39,513
Amortization of broadcast rights													49,044	28,365	29,405
Amortization of intangible assets													29,312	19,147	20,622
Depreciation													41,833	30,897	29,684
Total operating expenses													612,131	438,662	396,941
Income from operations													173,417	143,718	76,616
Interest expense, net													(69,649)	(51,804)	(50,062)
Loss on extinguishment of debt														(50)	(20,392)
Other expenses													(517)	(556)	(1,157)
Income before income taxes													103,251	91,308	5,005
Income tax (expense) benefit													(39,851)	(38,558)	(4,260)
Net income (loss)													63,400
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.													63,400	52,750	745
Mission [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS [Abstract]
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)													51,132	36,498	28,971
Revenue between consolidated entities													37,000	42,079	39,513
Net revenue													88,132	78,577	68,484
Operating expenses:
Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													24,601	18,135	14,550
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													3,536	3,188	3,235
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities													9,780	9,780	9,740
Amortization of broadcast rights													5,766	5,844	6,034
Amortization of intangible assets													2,418	2,728	6,762
Depreciation													2,435	2,760	3,535
Total operating expenses													48,536	42,435	43,856
Income from operations													39,596	36,142	24,628
Interest expense, net													(9,325)	(10,014)	(16,181)
Loss on extinguishment of debt														(21)	(14,332)
Other expenses															(302)
Income before income taxes													30,271	26,107	(6,187)
Income tax (expense) benefit													(12,172)	(10,023)	2,441
Net income (loss)													18,099
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.													18,099	16,084	(3,746)
Non-Guarantors [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS [Abstract]
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)													85,551	22,445	9,542
Revenue between consolidated entities													12,132	249	1,627
Net revenue													97,683	22,694	11,169
Operating expenses:
Direct operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													44,130	11,309	1,170
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization													19,660	12,240	4,879
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities													16,074	296
Amortization of broadcast rights													5,026	107
Amortization of intangible assets													16,745	3,975	2,764
Depreciation													2,954	1,390	359
Total operating expenses													104,589	29,317	9,172
Income from operations													(6,906)	(6,623)	1,997
Interest expense, net													(1,546)	(141)
Income before income taxes													(8,452)	(6,764)	1,997
Income tax (expense) benefit													3,336	2,480	(781)
Net income (loss)													(5,116)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests													1,301
Net income (loss) attributable to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.													$ (3,815)	$ (4,284)	$ 1,216
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Condensed Consolidating Finan95

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information - Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities	$ 197,266	$ 166,527	$ 27,339
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(29,021)	(20,389)	(18,955)
Deposits and payments for acquisitions	(475,949)	(209,733)	(229,382)
Proceeds from disposal of a station	27,005
Other investing activities	3,624	89	219
Net cash used in investing activities	(474,341)	(230,033)	(248,118)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	421,950	237,275	654,563
Repayments of long-term debt	(166,290)	(72,431)	(438,835)
Common stock dividends paid	(23,686)	(18,445)	(14,302)
Purchase of treasury stock	(48,660)		(8,422)
Other financing activities	5,265	8,991	(1,196)
Net cash provided by financing activities	188,579	155,390	191,808
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(88,496)	91,884	(28,971)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	131,912	40,028	68,999
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	43,416	131,912	40,028
Eliminations [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities			2,917
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	176
Deposits and payments for acquisitions	43,300	15,300
Proceeds from disposal of a station	(43,300)	(15,300)
Other investing activities	(176)		(2,917)
Net cash used in investing activities			(2,917)
Nexstar [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Common stock dividends paid	(23,686)	(18,445)	(14,302)
Purchase of treasury stock	(48,660)		(8,422)
Inter-company payments	68,989	16,414	15,765
Other financing activities	3,357	2,031	6,959
Nexstar Broadcasting [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities	163,476	166,915	18,749
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(26,636)	(18,826)	(17,545)
Deposits and payments for acquisitions	(510,701)	(163,533)	(169,874)
Proceeds from disposal of a station	70,305	15,300
Other investing activities	3,450	89	56
Net cash used in investing activities	(463,582)	(166,970)	(187,363)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	419,950	171,925	459,563
Repayments of long-term debt	(155,653)	(68,849)	(300,825)
Inter-company payments	(68,989)	(16,414)	(15,765)
Other financing activities	1,818	7,553	(6,728)
Net cash provided by financing activities	197,126	94,215	136,245
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(102,980)	94,160	(32,369)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	130,472	36,312	68,681
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	27,492	130,472	36,312
Mission [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities	10,934	(1,928)	4,428
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(258)	(236)	(165)
Deposits and payments for acquisitions		(3,200)	(59,508)
Other investing activities	150		3,080
Net cash used in investing activities	(108)	(3,436)	(56,593)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt		5,500	195,000
Repayments of long-term debt	(7,337)	(2,832)	(138,010)
Other financing activities	(8)	(140)	(1,427)
Net cash provided by financing activities	(7,345)	2,528	55,563
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	3,481	(2,836)	3,398
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	880	3,716	318
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	4,361	880	3,716
Non-Guarantors [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities	22,856	1,540	1,245
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(2,303)	(1,327)	(1,245)
Deposits and payments for acquisitions	(8,548)	(58,300)
Other investing activities	200
Net cash used in investing activities	(10,651)	(59,627)	$ (1,245)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	2,000	59,850
Repayments of long-term debt	(3,300)	(750)
Other financing activities	98	(453)
Net cash provided by financing activities	(1,202)	58,647
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	11,003	560
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	560
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 11,563	$ 560

Employee Benefits - Additional

Employee Benefits - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Retirement savings plans Nexstar [Member]
Employee Benefits [Line Items]
Contributions by employer	$ 1,300	$ 1,000	$ 800
Pension benefit [Member]
Employee Benefits [Line Items]
Contribution under collective bargaining agreement (in hundredths)		3.00%
Contributions by employer		$ 17	$ 21

Unaudited Quarterly Data - Unau

Unaudited Quarterly Data - Unaudited Quarterly Data (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net revenue	$ 252,262	[1]	$ 223,031	[1]	$ 219,349	[1]	$ 201,735	[1]	$ 192,804	$ 157,744	$ 146,930	$ 133,833	$ 896,377	$ 631,311	$ 502,330
Income from operations	67,346		48,315		52,542		37,904		68,899	41,696	34,942	27,700	206,107	173,237	103,241
Income before income taxes	46,772		27,804		32,001		18,493		52,850	25,994	19,405	12,402	125,070	110,651	815
Net income attributable to Nexstar	$ 27,174		$ 17,282		$ 20,321		$ 12,907		$ 30,849	$ 15,404	$ 10,944	$ 7,353	$ 77,684	$ 64,550	$ (1,785)
Basic net income per common share	$ 0.89		$ 0.55		$ 0.65		$ 0.41		$ 1	$ 0.50	$ 0.36	$ 0.24	$ 2.50	$ 2.10	$ (0.06)
Basic weighted average shares outstanding	30,622		31,262		31,325		31,196		30,962	30,888	30,641	30,603	31,100	30,774	29,897
Diluted net income per common share	$ 0.86		$ 0.54		$ 0.63		$ 0.40		$ 0.96	$ 0.48	$ 0.34	$ 0.23	$ 2.42	$ 2.02	$ (0.06)
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	31,580		32,151		32,382		32,256		32,102	32,067	31,932	31,909	32,091	32,003	29,897
[1]	During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company revised its previously reported quarterly financial statements to reflect certain publisher commissions as a reduction to net revenue instead of an expense. As such, the amounts previously reported as net revenue and direct operating expenses were each decreased by $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million during the first, second and third quarters of 2015, respectively. The Company does not believe these revisions were material to the previously reported interim financial statements. These revisions had no impact on the Company’s previously reported interim income from operations.

Unaudited Quarterly Data - Un98

Unaudited Quarterly Data - Unaudited Quarterly Data (Parenthetical) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015
Net Revenue [Member]
Quarterly Information Data [Line Items]
Decrease in previously reported quarterly results	$ (1.9)	$ (2)	$ (1.7)
Direct Operating Expenses [Member]
Quarterly Information Data [Line Items]
Decrease in previously reported quarterly results	$ (1.9)	$ (2)	$ (1.7)

Valuation and Qualifying Acco99

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Period		$ 3,002	$ 3,035	$ 1,965
Additions Charged to Costs and Expenses		3,443	2,604	2,697
Deductions	[1]	(1,076)	(2,637)	(1,627)
Balance at End of Period		$ 5,369	$ 3,002	$ 3,035
[1]	Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.

Subsequent Events - Additional

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Billions	Jan. 27, 2016	Jan. 21, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividends declared per common share			$ 0.76	$ 0.60	$ 0.48
Subsequent Event [Member] | Media General Future Acquisition [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Business acquisition estimated value	$ 2
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 4.7
Class A Common Stock [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividends declared per common share		$ 0.24
Dividends, date declared		Jan. 21, 2016
Dividends, date payable		Feb. 26, 2016
Dividends, date of record		Feb. 12, 2016