Reebok signed New York Jets quarterback Chad Pennington to an endorsement deal and plans to use him in two national TV ads this year.
Pennington was in California earlier this month filming a spot with Denver Broncos running back Clinton Portis and Minnesota Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper to promote Reebok's NFL parka line, and the baby-faced Jet will do another spot to push the company's headgear lines.
Reebok declined to discuss the deal's terms, but Pennington, previously with Nike, is thought to be getting a low-six-figure sum.
"Chad has it," said Eddie White, a Reebok vice president, who with perhaps a bit of hyperbole also described Pennington as the second coming of Mickey Mantle for the New York market. Signing the hot young quarterback in New York, White added, sends "a message to fans and competitors and retailers that Reebok is serious about its partnership with the league."
The NFL's merchandise and licensing partner, Reebok has more than 300 NFL players under contact.
Pennington is the latest high-profile off-season addition to Reebok's endorser list, which includes Ray Lewis and Culpepper. Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb has agreed in principle to a Reebok deal (See also Reebok set to make McNabb highest-paid NFL shoe/apparel endorser).
Pennington is represented by IMG, which did not return calls.
