The NFL Combine comes with plenty of perks for participating players, though all treat the week as a business trip, looking to impress scouts. From interviews to weigh-ins to running through drills, it’s a busy week for the top NFL draft prospects in attendance. But Under Armour, official sponsor of the combine, takes care of the draft prospects well, giving each a variety of gifts and apparel while using the combine as a marketing opportunity. With the next generation of stars passing through the combine, it’s a perfect chance for Under Armour to get a head-start.
CNBC’s Darren Rovell ran through the list of items each participant receives at the combine, with gifts mostly of the apparel variety.
2 Charged Cotton Graphic T’s, “Protect This House” large duffle sackpack, UA Prevail or Power Sunglasses, UA Winter Beanie, UA Cap, Armour Fleece Hoody, UA Chase Running Shoes, UA Mercenary Slides. Fleece and travel bottoms, 2 loose shorts, compression shorts, socks, leggings, UA football cleats, UA combine shoes, football gloves. Personalized items: 4 shirts, UA Fleece performance top, Travel Suit Jacket, UA Coreshort
Not a bad list of swag. Under Armour is still battling with Nike to secure some of the top prospects and stars of the NFL. Cam Newton and Julio Jones already inked endorsement deals with the company and will wear shoes sure to draw attention at the company. The shoes invoke memories of Oregon’s BCS Championship uniforms, designed by Under Armour competitor Nike.
With the combine shown live on NFL Network throughout the weekend, the event serves as one long infomercial for Under Armour, with product placement taken to the max throughout the event. Not a bad way to build brand recognition while targeting the specific audience the apparel company is looking for.
For more on the week’s events, check out our 2011 NFL Combine StoryStream.