The NFL Players Association and DraftKings Inc. announced yesterday plans to collaborate on a gaming NFT launch set to debut during the 2022 – 2023 season.The agreement grants DraftKings licensing rights for active NFL players, including the authentic use of name, image and likeness to use in the games.
This eventual NFL player NFT integration will coincide with DraftKings’ existing NFL designations that include being an official daily fantasy and sports betting partner of the league.
This marks the first integration of its kind.
“The future of fandom is unfolding in front of us, and few organizations beyond DraftKings are as equipped to capitalize on the increasing intersection between sports and NFTs that will be cornerstones of engagement and entertainment within Web3,” said Beth Beiriger, SVP of Product Operations for DraftKings Marketplace.
“We will continuously adapt, innovate and seek progressive collaborators like the NFLPA and OneTeam to reach early adopters among fanbases and ultimately introduce these next-generation products to the masses.”
Features to look forward to will include separate buying and selling functionality as well as access to collectibles within games to use against others on the platform. DraftKings anticipates that a variety of NFT additions and tiers will be available that will incorporate different aspects of utility and digital scarcity.
“The NFLPA strives to be at the forefront of innovative new products, and the emerging landscape of digital entertainment that creates excitement among players and fans,” said Sean C. Sansiveri, General Counsel and Head of Business Affairs at NFL Players Inc., the marketing and licensing arm of the NFLPA. “We look forward to integrating NFL players into DraftKings’ NFT experience to create authentic connections for avid fans.”
OneTeam, which is leading the NFLPA’s digital media business, facilitated the new deal in collaboration with all parties.
