Fantasy sports brand FanDuel has announced a marketing deal with the Redskins that will prominently showcase FanDuel at FedExField as well as across the team’s digital and social media platforms. Former NFLer Chris Cooley also will take part in the initiative. This marks the first time the Redskins have partnered with a one-day fantasy sports provider. FanDuel, which recently reached a deal with the NBA, expects to have more than 1.1 million active users and pay out more than $1B in prizes in '15. Meanwhile, FanDuel also has signed a deal with the Mavericks. As part of the deal, the company will provide a GM Fantasy Sweepstakes, where a fan will have the chance to win a behind-the-scenes experience with Mavericks GM Donnie Nelson (THE DAILY).
MORE FROM FANTASYLAND: FORBES' Darren Heitner noted a new website called FantasyDraft was launched in Beta form on Thursday offering "fantasy sports contests across all major sports that last from one day to one week." The site has also "announced endorsement contracts" with Colts WR T.Y. Hilton and Packers WR Jordy Nelson. Hilton and Nelson will "each have profiles and play on the website." All of their respective winnings from game-play will be "delivered to a charity of their choice." The deals also include Hilton and Nelson "granting the right for FantasyDraft to use their name and likeness on promotional materials, social media campaigns and they will be obligated to make appearances on behalf of the fantasy sports operator" (FORBES.com, 11/13).
DRESS CODE VIOLATION: TMZ reported several NFLers have "received letters from Nike -- warning the players to stop customizing their cleats." Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch, Redskins WR DeSean Jackson, Ravens LB Terrell Suggs and Lions RB Reggie Bush, among others, have been "taking their shoes to famous artists to swag out before games." The company "sent out letters to players reminding them that the point of the deal is make sure the Nike Swoosh is visible on TV during games ... and customization could get in the way" (TMZ.com, 11/13).
