Betting

DraftKings to launch NFT-based games in collaboration with NFL Players Association

By Conor Mulheir - 7 Dec, 2021

DraftKings plans to release gamified NFT collections on the DraftKings Marketplace during the 2022-23 NFL season in collaboration with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and its group licensing partner OneTeam.

The agreement grants DraftKings licensing rights for active NFL players, including the authentic use of name, image and likeness, and marks the debut integration of gamified NFTs by the association.

DraftKings anticipates customers will be able to use the collectibles within games against other users on the platform, as well as partaking in separate buying and selling functionality.

A variety of NFT editions and tiers are expected to be released, featuring different aspects of utility and digital scarcity. The products will be powered by the Polygon blockchain, with which DraftKings had previously announced a strategic agreement.

DraftKings said the eventual integration will coincide with its existing NFL designations, as official daily fantasy and sports betting partner of the league.

“The future of fandom is unfolding in front of us, and few organisations beyond DraftKings are as equipped to capitalise on the increasing intersection between sports and NFTs that will be cornerstones of engagement and entertainment within Web3,” said Beth Beiriger, SVP of product operations for DraftKings Marketplace.

“We will continuously adapt, innovate and seek progressive collaborators like the NFLPA and OneTeam to reach early adopters among fanbases and ultimately introduce these next-generation products to the masses.”

Sean Sansiveri, general counsel and head of business affairs at NFL Players Inc, added: “The NFLPA strives to be at the forefront of innovative new products, and the emerging landscape of digital entertainment that creates excitement among players and fans.

“We look forward to integrating NFL players into DraftKings’ NFT experience to create authentic connections for avid fans,” Sansiveri concluded.

DraftKings’ share price opened at $31.90 today, after rising more than 7% yesterday. At the time of writing the price is $32.22, up a further 5% today but still down more than 50% compared to its year-to-date high of over $70.