In Cincinnati, Steve Watkins noted Papa John's Cincinnati yesterday became the official pizza of the Bengals, and the team will serve the chain's pizza "at all home games this season." Also, Papa John's "will offer Bengals fans giveaways and discounts throughout the season." Papa John's gave free pizza to fans who attended yesterday's training camp practice outside Paul Brown Stadium. It also is offering a gift card good for a free pizza "to the first 1,000 fans at each of the Family Day training camp practices" on Aug. 2 and Aug. 9 (BIZJOURNALS.com, 7/28).
MAGIC MARKER: In Cleveland, Tom Reed noted Browns QB Johnny Manziel "trotted onto the practice fields Sunday with what looked like a pair of optic yellow highlight markers attached to his feet." If Manziel was "looking for attention he got it" by wearing Nike's Vapor Ultimate cleats. However, before practice got into full swing, Manziel "made a wardrobe change." He switched to a pair of predominately orange cleats, while a Browns equipment staffer carried the "blinding kicks back to the locker room." Browns head coach Mike Pettine said that all players are "required to sport team-issued gear" (CLEVELAND.com, 7/27).
LEADER OF THE PACK: Packers head coach Mike McCarthy last Tuesday filmed the last in his "series of spots" for Wisconsin-based wireless provider Cellcom. The new spot, which will be "one of four featuring McCarthy, also includes an appearance" by Packers CB Casey Hayward. Cellcom Marketing Dir Al Dummer said that the spot is "filmed around the football theme 'Challenge' -- when an NFL head coach questions a referee's call." The commercial will include McCarthy questioning a misconception of Cellcom's customer service." Dummer added that the commercials will "begin airing in conjunction with the first Packers' game of the season," and each ad "stars a different player" (GREENBAYPRESSGAZETTE.com, 7/26).
SHUTDOWN CORNER: Under Armour has signed Cardinals CB Patrick Peterson to a multiyear endorsement deal, joining the company's NFL endorser portfolio that includes Patriots QB Tom Brady, Panthers QB Cam Newton and Falcons WR Julio Jones (Under Armour).
