NFL Jersey Licenses Timeline. A rich history Starter, Reebok, Nike Adidas and more

The history of NFL jersey manufacturers is quite extensive and has a storied past. The landscape of outfitting team gear is quite different today than what it used to be.

During the late 80’s and early 90’s, apparel outfitters would be bidding with individual teams who would make the choice as to which manufacturer would produce team gear. 

The timeline of licenses for NFL teams isn’t as clear cut as it has been in the NBA. 

Related: NBA Jersey Licenses Timeline. A rich history of Champion, Nike, Reebok, Adidas and more

it wasn’t until around the mid-90’s that the NFL decided to assign a sideline merchandise licensee to each team and streamline the process.

The NFL still had multiple manufacturers producing NFL team gear from the mid-90’s however it was assigned as per the league. 

It wasn’t until 2002 that Reebok had signed an exclusive deal with the NFL that would have them gearing up all teams within the NFL.

The deal was in place until 2012 when Nike was assigned as the exclusive apparel supplier for all teams.

Take a look below at the historical licenses timeline for all teams in the NFL.

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