The NFL and Verizon Announce New Two-Year Partnership

The National Football League and Verizon have announced a partnership to jointly develop new products and services that will utilize 5G—the fifth generation of wireless technology—and other technologies to enhance NFL games and the overall fan experience. The deal, which is an expansion of Verizon and the NFL’s long-standing relationship, makes Verizon the official 5G innovation partner of the NFL.

“For over 10 years now Verizon has been one of our most trusted partners and our work with them has delivered fans incredible access and experiences around the NFL,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “As the promise of 5G technology nears, I’m excited to enter into this innovation partnership with Verizon which should again bring a multitude of benefits to our millions of fans worldwide.”

Under the terms of the partnership, Verizon and the NFL will develop new in-stadium mobile features designed to enhance the fan experience. The partnership also includes the development of one or more NFL-themed mobile games powered by 5G. Verizon will also explore the use of 5G to stream volumetric video, an emerging video format, for the development of new fan experiences and applications.

“Today’s announcement is another milestone in Verizon’s long-standing relationship with the NFL,” said Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg. “The innovation partnership will use Verizon’s 5G technology to unlock new and exciting ways for NFL fans to view, share and engage with their favorite teams no matter where they are. From the living room to the stadium, 5G will transform the sports experience.”