NFL signs DraftKings as official daily fantasy sports partner

DraftKings recently signed a deal making them the official daily fantasy sports partner of the National Football League (NFL). It’s a deal that does plenty to boost the legitimacy of DFF provider and further blurs the once solid line between professional football and gambling. (Though the NFL does not currently classify daily fantasy sports as gambling.)
Though specific terms of the deal were not released, the parties did say that DraftKings will now have access to NFL logos and branding materials to help promote its products. The deal only appears to apply to daily fantasy football and not to any of Draftking’s pick ’ems and sports betting products.
Industry watchers are keenly aware that the deal represents a seismic shift in the League’s attitude towards a company that once nearly run of business for allegedly offering unlicensed gambling products. (Though DraftKing’s and rival FanDuel deftly skirted around those allegations and are finding a solid home in the regulated sports betting market.)
In an official press statement from the NFL, Jason Robins, Chief Executive Officer at DraftKings touted the deal saying, “This is a defining moment in the industry, and we are thrilled to become the first daily fantasy sports partner to enter into a formal relationship with the NFL. Throughout our discussions with the League, it was evident we share a common vision around the future of fan engagement, and we are excited to continue on this unique journey with the NFL as our Official Daily Fantasy Partner.”
Renie Anderson, Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President of NFL Partnerships chimed in adding that, “Daily fantasy football has been a tremendous vehicle for fans of all types to deepen their engagement with the NFL.”
Both sides were keen to point out that the deal only covers daily fantasy football and not sports betting.