The NFL and Dapper Labs Inc. will announce an NFT partnership this week to create a digital collectibles marketplace similar to the popular NBA Top Shot, with both the league and the NFL Players Association taking equity in Dapper Labs, according to sources. Financial terms were not disclosed, but sources said the pact marks the union's second largest source of digital licensing revenue behind its contract with Electronic Arts Inc., makers of the "Madden" video game franchise. (Sports Business Journal)
The Chicago Bears have reportedly signed a purchase agreement for the Arlington International Racecourse in Arlington Heights, Ill., which is located roughly 30 miles from Soldier Field, the team's stadium. While the Bears' lease at Soldier Field runs through 2033, team president Ted Phillips previously said acquiring the racecourse property will allow the organization to evaluate its potential for a new stadium. (The Athletic)
Colorado State and Air Force are the latest college football programs expected to change conferences, both making a reported switch from the Mountain West Conference to the American Athletic Conference. The move follows the AAC's Houston, Cincinnati and UCF recently announcing plans to join the Big 12. (Sports Illustrated)
Boxer Manny Pacquiao announced his retirement from the sport in a video posted to Facebook, ending a storied, 26-year career that includes 12 world titles. Pacquiao, who is already a senator in his native Philippines, plans to run for the country's president in May. (The Associated Press)
MEDIA
Peyton and Eli Manning taking break from 'Monday Night Football' broadcast Andrew Crane, New York Post
After a three-week introduction, including a stretch where viewership increased by 138% during the opening pair of games, the alternate ESPN "Monday Night Football" MegaCast featuring Peyton and Eli Manning will take a three-week hiatus and return for Week 7, they announced during their Sept. 27 Cowboys-Eagles broadcast.
COLLEGE SPORTS
For CFP to expand by '24, plans needs approval in 4 months Ralph D. Russo, The Associated Press
The college sports leaders who run the College Football Playoff have about four months to come to an agreement on a new format if expansion is to be implemented for the 2024 season.
Inside the tumultuous summer of College Football Playoff expansion Heather Dinich, ESPN
Tuesday's meeting of the most powerful people in college football had been scheduled since June. Travel plans had been made. Hotel rooms were booked. At least one university president had his school's charter plane pilot on standby.
College NIL Firms Challenged by Speed of Free-Market Reform Push Daniel Libit, Sportico
Following the national rallying cry over college athlete financial rights reform, a number of name, image and likeness entrepreneurs have sought to demonstrate that they can be part of the intercollegiate industrial complex while at the same time serving as change agents and athlete advocates.
UCLA fans must show vaccination proof to attend Rose Bowl games starting Oct. 23 Ben Bolch, Los Angeles Times
UCLA football fans must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative coronavirus test within 72 hours of kickoff, beginning with the Bruins' game against Oregon on Oct. 23, after the city of Pasadena on Monday night adopted a vaccination mandate at mega events.
Recruiting Ranking The Contenders: Five-Star WR Tristen Keys