We see it in the NBA. Soccer, too. Teams’ jerseys have the names of their sponsors on them, either on patches or just the name somewhere on the shirt or shorts/pants. One league that has yet to place sponsors on their jerseys is the NFL. However, with a possible need for revenue and an evolving media landscape, the question of jersey sponsors in the NFL is no longer a matter of “if” but “when.” Here’s why they should (and shouldn’t) do this.

The Financial Argument: A Boost for the League and Teams

KANSAS CITY, MO – APRIL 27: Will Anderson Jr. dons a jersey after being selected to the Houston Texans during Round One of the 2023 NFL Draft on Thursday April 27, 2023 at Union Station in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Nick Tre. Smith/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Jersey sponsorships would provide a significant new revenue source for the NFL and its teams. This additional income that they will get could be used to help pay for player contracts, invest in the fan experience, or fund league initiatives. With the NFL’s massive global audience, jersey sponsorships could offer unparalleled brand exposure for companies. Throw in the fact that international corporations might be particularly interested in this marketing opportunity, and this is a win-win situation.

Also, in today’s digital age, jerseys are seen not just on the field but also on social media highlights, video games, and merchandise. This reach creates more value for potential sponsors. Younger generations of fans are accustomed to seeing sponsor logos on jerseys in other sports. With brands like Prime to McDonald’s being a favorite to the younger audience, resistance to jersey sponsors might be less pronounced than with older demographics.

Drawbacks To Think About

To every good idea, there’s always a downside. Some fans value the clean, uncluttered look of traditional jerseys. Sponsor logos would detract from the aesthetic. The NFL might be hesitant to cede control over jersey designs and ensure sponsorships align with the league’s image. Fans also may react negatively to the introduction of sponsor logos, viewing it as a commercialization of the game.

So, How Can We Make Both Sides Happy?

Here are ways both sides (those who want versus don’t want jersey sponsors) can get what they want.

Sponsor logos should be strategically placed. Also, they should be designed to complement the existing uniform aesthetics. The league could establish clear guidelines regarding sponsor selection and logo placement. Finally, open communication with fans about the rationale behind jersey sponsorships can help ease potential resistance.

The NFL’s decision to allow jersey sponsors will take some time. The potential financial benefits and the evolving media landscape suggest it’s a matter of time. Ultimately, success will depend on finding a way to respect the league’s heritage while adapting to the changing sports business landscape

Make sure to visit Belly Up Sports every week and follow me on Twitter/X! Also, check out my podcast “Backup to the Backup” on Spotify and YouTube for more NFL content from me.

Featured Image: Obin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images)

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About Author

Nathan Nguyen

My name is Nathan Nguyen, a college student from the beautiful state of California. I cover the three major sports leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB) for Belly Up Sports. Outside of my writing, I host the 3rd and 10 Podcast: an NFL show with a focus on the New York Giants. We are live every Monday and Thursday at 1 PM EST on YouTube. I also host the Piggin’ Out Podcast, which is live every Tuesday at 7 PM EST on the Belly Up Sports YouTube channel. Finally, I am one of the four members of the Korner Booth Podcast, and we are live every Monday and Thursday at 7 pm EST.

7 Comments

    “Companies need revenue” is not an exclusive reason for ads on uniforms. There wasn’t a single reason presented in this article that spoke to why uniform advertisements, in particular, would be a better source of additional income than:
    Additional in-stadium advertising that can be seen from field-level on highlights,
    Raising ticket prices (a 70,000 seat stadium would generate more than $1M in additional revenue by raising ticket prices by only $2 each),
    Increasing the price of beer,
    Signing their franchise QB for $52M/year instead of $55M

    Lastly, this article implies that the NFL is in financial trouble, and needs additional revenue from uniform advertisements in order to survive, which could not be further from the truth,

    There is nothing factual in this article, and all opinions use specious reasoning at best.

      Seeing what you’re saying Skott. Should have said “possible need” for more revenue. After all, if the NFL has a chance to make more money, then they will do so! This was a opinionated article in the first place, looking from both sides in terms of why they should and shouldn’t do jersey sponsors. Appreciate the feedback and your thoughts.

    No way. Are you freaking kidding me!?!?!??!!? The NFL does not need more money, and any ads on/near a field or on a uniform look terrible and take away from the fan experience.

      Definitely see what you’re saying. But, if a league has a chance to make more money, then they’ll do so. That’s why if they were to do jersey sponsors, then they should place them where (like you said) don’t make it look terrible. Plus, the fans may be into it!

    Soccer and Rugby uniforms are absolutely hideous because of all of the ad patches. The NFL needs more revenue like a need another hole in my head. Besides they already have an ad patch on their jerseys: the swooshtika

      “the swooshitika” AHA love it. But, hey if they want to make more money, they’ll do whatever they can

    That’s why if they were to do jersey sponsors, then they should place them where (like you said) don’t make it look terrible. Plus, the fans may be into it!

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    I don’t see how fans would “be into” jersey sponsorships.

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