NFL PLAYERS renews licensing deal with Topps

By Chris Olds | Beckett Sports Card Monthly Editor

Topps will continue to perform on the gridiron after signing a long-term card licensing agreement with NFL PLAYERS announced on Wednesday.

The deal with the licensing and marketing arm of the NFLPA will continue Topps’ card legacy that spans nearly 60 years.

“We are excited to continue our deep, long standing partnership with the NFLPA,” said Ryan O’Hara, CEO of The Topps Company, in a prepared statement.  “For more than 50 years, these two iconic brands have continued to be at the forefront of innovation with the goal of providing the best products to our growing consumer base.”

Topps soon will announce Bowman football as its first product of the season, Bowman, which it teased with updated Peyton Manning and Tim Tebow cards last week.

“The NFLPA is pleased to extend our partnership with The Topps Company, a cornerstone partner for nearly 20 years,” said Keith Gordon, President of NFL PLAYERS INC. “We look forward to a continued tradition of product innovation, industry enrichment and a healthy assortment of player product.”

Topps also teased a new brand — Topps Strata — as well as promising more online innovations.

“As the market leader, Topps will continue to drive innovation in the category and look to deliver even more this year with new products such as Bowman Football and Topps Strata,” said Doug Kruep, VP General Manager – Sports and Entertainment.  “Additionally, we are focused on enhancing and extending the collector experience beyond physical cards and will be unveiling a new online marketing campaign later this year.”

Chris Olds is the editor of Beckett Sports Card Monthly magazine. Have a comment, question or idea? Send an email to him at colds@beckett.com. Follow him on Twitter by clicking here.