Retired NFL Players Partner with Aventus for NFT Collectibles
The NFL Alumni Association has teamed up with Aventus, a Polkadot parachain, to offer retired players new revenue streams through NFT collectibles. The partnership will allow the organization to create NFTs featuring the name, image, and likeness of retired players who opt into the program. The NFL Alumni Association is a nonprofit organization that supports former players by providing discounts on travel, healthcare, legal representation, and speaking opportunities.
Monetizing Memorabilia through NFTs
NFL Alumni CEO Brad Edwards sees NFT collectibles as an evolution of athletes monetizing their memorabilia and trading cards. He believes that blockchain technology provides authentication, protection, and ownership rights for players. The NFTs will showcase on-field moments from retired players and offer fans benefits such as signed merchandise and “metaverse-based” experiences.
Onboarding Players for the Marketplace
About 50 to 100 players are expected to attend an upcoming NFL Alumni function in Dallas, where they will begin the onboarding process for creating collectibles on Aventus’ marketplace. Edwards ensures that a significant portion of the revenue from these deals goes back to the players, with some players receiving up to 70% of the funds.
NFL’s Existing NFT Initiatives
The NFL already has several NFT initiatives in place with various partners. Dapper Labs launched NFL All Day as a marketplace for digital collectibles of active players. Mythical Games features NFL players in its NFT-backed mobile football game, NFL Rivals. DraftKings has partnered with the NFL Players Association for an NFT-based fantasy football game.
Future Opportunities for Retired Players
The popularity of former players, fueled by their roles as commentators and analysts in NFL broadcasts, is expected to drive demand for their collectibles. While legendary players like Peyton and Eli Manning have found success in the NFT space, the NFL Alumni Association aims to support the thousands of players who may need assistance in benefiting from their legacy.
Hot Take: NFTs Empower Retired NFL Players
The partnership between the NFL Alumni Association and Aventus opens up new opportunities for retired NFL players to tap into revenue streams through NFT collectibles. By leveraging blockchain technology, players can monetize their memorabilia and trading cards while maintaining ownership rights. The NFTs will showcase iconic on-field moments from retired players, offering fans unique benefits and experiences. With the growing popularity of NFTs in the sports industry, this partnership empowers retired players to benefit from their legacy and engage with fans in innovative ways.
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