NFL Tells Teams They Can Sign One-Year Daily Fantasy Deals

The NFL told teams they could only sign daily fantasy deals for one year, conveying that message at the league's annual meeting in Arizona. Several teams have begun signing the deals, and the league wanted to formalize the space because it had no policy in the category. NFL VP/Communications Brian McCarthy in an e-mail wrote, "With more teams signing advertising deals last year the league reviewed the overall landscape and made a proposal to enable all clubs to explore potential arrangements. It would be for one year."

Teams that have been signing the deals with companies like FanDuel and DraftKings have had to include one-year opt-out provisions in those contracts, sources said. Some critics see the space as no different from gaming – an alignment with which the NFL is firmly opposed. The one-year term suggests the league is still hesitant, but recognizes that clubs have already begun acting.