Under Armour has signed a long-term deal with the NFL to become an official shoe and glove partner.
The Sporting News reports that the NFL and Under Armour partnered together for five years before partnering with Nike and Adidas to provide footwear and gloves.
Joe Ruggiero said, “The NFL is thrilled to embark on this Under Armour partnership, bringing Under Armour’s innovative products to NFL Football to enhance player performances. With the partnership, we aim to engage current and future footballers and fans across the globe.”
Under Armour began its partnership with the NFL back in 2006. However, it was reportedly terminated in 2020 by the former management as a way to cut costs.
According to the Daily Mail, Under Armour’s relationship with the NFL is being revived now that Kevin Plank has returned as the company’s founder.
We are passionate at Under Armour about nurturing talent and changing the way athletes perform. Sean Eggert said, “We know what it takes on the field to be successful. We’re excited to continue shaping the future of sport with the NFL, as we share a commitment to investing in it, from the pros down to the grassroots.”
Justin Jefferson, a Minnesota Vikings wide receiver and All-Pro, celebrated Under Armour’s return on the NFL field.
Jefferson stated, “From gloves to cleats, to performance gear, I can honestly say there is nothing better for me to compete with. Under Armour was my second skin even before I stepped foot on an NFL field. There’s nothing that compares to Under Armour for me.”
Although the partnership was announced as being a multi-year deal, it’s unclear how long this will last.
According to The Baltimore Sun, Nike has just extended its exclusive uniform partnership with the NFL for 10 years.
Nike will reportedly continue to supply the league’s footwear and gloves along with Adidas.
According to The Mail, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated that Nike has been a valuable partner since 2012. Nike is a strategic business partner that will help us expand football internationally, promote youth football, and improve player safety.
After Nike reported a drop in global sales, the NFL decided to forgo an exclusive partnership on footwear and gloves.
Nike reportedly saw a 9% drop in third-quarter sales for fiscal year 2025, with sales falling 4% in North America; 10% in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa; and 17% in China.