NFL Announces NIKE Will Be Uniform Supplier Starting In 2012

An endearing image to me from the Broncos Super Bowl years is the NIKE 'Swoosh' on the Broncos dark blue uniforms. While that jersey may look the same as the team's current look in style, the lack of that swoosh makes it feel like a completely different era. starting in 2012, however, the 'Swoosh' will return.

"We have spent considerable time the past few years rigorously evaluating our apparel business," said ERIC GRUBMAN, the NFL's executive vice president of NFL ventures and business operations. "The new framework will provide fans with a wider breadth of merchandise from global category leaders in the sports licensed apparel industry."

Reebok will continue to be the NFL's official outfitter for the remainder of the 2010 season and the 2011 season.

Nike reportedly has big plans for NFL Uniforms, according to Nike Brand President Charlie Denson,

We plan on changing the NFL jersey dramatically just like we've done with the college programs, using new thinking and the greatest technology available. The NFL program hasn't had the same type of advancement in recent years.

Beginning in April 2012, the NFL will have seven major apparel partners:

• Nike will be the official uniform provider and will produce all on-field apparel including game uniforms and base layer, as well as sideline personnel apparel and fan gear.

• New Era will be the official on-field headwear supplier and will produce headwear for the sidelines and for fans.

• Under Armour will continue as the official sponsor of the NFL Scouting Combine. Under Armour will outfit Combine participants and also offer Combine apparel beginning in 2012.

• GIII will continue as a key apparel partner manufacturing fan gear, including outerwear and lifestyle collections for men and women.

• VF will continue as a key apparel partner manufacturing fan gear, including t-shirts and fleece.

• Outerstuff will continue as the NFL's youth apparel provider.

• '47 Brand will produce headwear for fans.

There may be additional niche licenses awarded in the future.