Many NFL fans have been excited about Nike taking over for Reebok as the official outfitter for NFL teams. College fans have known for years about the cutting-edge looks and styles Nike has provided their favorite college football programs. Nikes combat uniforms have been all the rage amongst college fans but new age, cutting-edge looks have kept the game fresh and intriguing.
The most notable new-age look would be from the University of Oregon. Nike has never made duck feathers look more fashionable, almost flapping in air, when placed on shoulder pads. Football fans in general tune into Ducks games just to see what uniforms they will be wearing that week.
I dont think Bear fans have anything to get excited or worried about concerning their traditional uniforms. It's how the McCaskeys like it. Tradition is sacred around Halas Hall and the Bears hold some of the richest history in the NFL. Traditions that have been passed on from George Halas to daughter Virginia McCaskey that will not be compromised.
George McCaskey looks to be the latest family member in a position of authority since being elected as Bears board chairman. New companies selling the NFL logo will lose any delusions of grandeur concerning any new marks or changes because NFL teams wont be straying from sacred traditions. Other traditional teams like the Steelers (Rooney family), Chiefs (Hunt family) or Giants (Mara family) know their traditional classic throwback style has national appeal and impact. It sells itself.
Uniform changes have to be approved by the team and the NFL. Nike knows it wouldnt be welcome disrupting the apple cart by trying to convince teams to change their looks. The NFL already sold jerseys without Nike -- Nike just happened to be the highest bidder to win the contract over any other outfitter.
Speaking of traditions or lack thereof; did you see the Seattle Seahawks unveiling of their new age Nike uniforms today (photos here)? When you dont have tradition or history to sell, you have to find something to package the fans. I suggest the Seahawks win or they could become the laughingstock of the league looking like that.