2K, OneTeam Partners and the National Football League Players Association have announced a partnership that will allow 2K to include National Football League players in multiple football games.

“We’re thrilled to be working with the NFLPA and OneTeam to bring the biggest and best stars in football to the games we’re working on,” says David Ismailer, president, 2K. “We want to give fans experiences that are authentic, memorable and fun, and having a roster of real-life sports heroes through the Players Association and OneTeam is a huge part of delivering on that promise.”

The partnership will grant 2K the right to feature the names, numbers, images and likenesses for more than 2,000 current NFL players. OneTeam, the NFLPA’s group licensing representative, facilitated the deal. Financial terms were not disclosed. 

“2K has a proven track record of high-profile and successful business relationships with other sports leagues, professional athletes and their collective fans,” says Steve Scebelo, interim president, NFL Players Inc., the marketing and licensing arm of the NFLPA. “The label makes some of the best sports video games in the world, and we look forward to working with 2K, our players and OneTeam on future projects.”

2K's NFL games will be non-simulation football game experiences and are currently in early stages of development. The games are set to launch starting in calendar year 2021. Specific game titles, developers and release dates will be announced at a later date.

“Sports video gaming is a massive growth category, and the partnership between the NFLPA and 2K presents an opportunity not only to excite current gamers but also reach untapped future audiences,” says Ahmad Nassar, chief executive officer, OneTeam Partners. “Our role is to bring together strong collective rights that can be supported by the most innovative and creative businesses, benefiting all stakeholders. We are pleased to be a part of this important partnership.”