For decades, the NFL has been dodging the notion that it is a gambler’s paradise. The league and its teams have long distanced themselves from the wagering community both legal and illegal.
With many states now changing their laws regarding sports wagering, including New Jersey, NFL teams are softening their tune when it comes to embracing gambling organizations and casinos. The popularity of fantasy football and wagering on sports has exploded across the world and he NFL can no longer shy away from the revenue and partnership opportunities that industry brings to the table.
On Wednesday, it was announced that the New York Giants, one of the NFL’s most conservative franchises, were entering into a partnership/sponsorship with the DFS/Sportsbook mega site DraftKings.
“The New York Giants have continued to be a fantastic organization to work with over the years, and we are excited to expand our relationship as the Giants’ Official Exclusive Sports Betting, iGaming and Daily Fantasy operator,†said Ezra Kucharz, DraftKings’ Chief Business Officer. “Both organizations remain committed to customer experience through enhanced product offerings and authenticity and look forward to joining forces across platforms as the highly-anticipated NFL season gets underway.â€
With football continuing to be the most popular sport on the DraftKings platform, this collaboration aims to further enhance both customer experience and engagement throughout the NFL season and beyond. In addition, DraftKings and the Giants will provide a Free-to-Play Pick ‘Em game that will be available to Giants fans on a weekly basis. Out of the over 700 sports teams available on the DraftKings Sportsbook platform, the NY Giants rank in the top 40 for most highly bet franchises by both handle and wagers.
“Our enhanced agreement with DraftKings provides innovative opportunities as we look to deliver a best-in-class fan experience,†said Giants Chief Commercial Officer Pete Guelli. “DraftKings is the preeminent leader in sports betting and daily fantasy sports and we are excited to be the first NFL team to have an exclusive integrated deal in this category.â€
This is not the Giants’ first foray with DK but it makes the relationship official. DK will now become an verified sponsor across “all team-controlled media including television (NBC, MSG Networks, MY9), radio (Entercom/WFAN), and digital and social (Giants.com and the official Giants mobile app) in addition to a number of experiential and hospitality benefits.”
“DK will also receive premier brand integration across MetLife Stadium during Giants home games. The multi-faceted arrangement also grants DraftKings access to official Giants marks and logos, in addition to a first of its kind virtual SportsLounge open on Giants’ game days, providing attendees with unique and innovative ways to engage on all DraftKings platforms.”
Welcome to the new normal.