Reebok has been providing the NFL with uniforms, sideline apparel and footwear for almost a decade now; but, according to sources close to the league, Nike is on the verge of acquiring the rights to replace the Vector. It’s been almost a decade since the Swoosh has been seen on official uniforms, but the deal on the table could bring it right back to NFL fields.
By rule, coaches and sideline staff are currently required to wear Reebok during official activities, and its branding appears on all equipment pieces except for cleats, helmets and gloves. Nike is in talks to take over those rights beginning for the 2012-2013 season, with the exception of headwear. New Era is currently in talks to take care of those products. With 2010 having already brought us a wide selection of new training and football products from Nike, could the NFL spotlight drive Nike to go even further with its product development?
UPDATE: New Era has apparently been confirmed as the official headwear provider and industry insiders are indicating that Nike has all but won the bidding process. adidas, which acquired Reebok after the beginning of its NFL deal, has indicated it won’t budge on its offered bid.
Source: Sports Business Daily, CNBC
