The holiday season is a cornerstone for the NFL, marked by high-stakes games, immense viewership, and cultural traditions. Festive football draws millions of fans, blending sports with family gatherings and holiday cheer. These games often feature key matchups that shape playoff hopes, adding excitement and significance. Some of the biggest games of the season will be taking place before the new year. The NFL’s cultural impact extends beyond the field, with players becoming household names during this time. The NFL has also increased the number of games taking place over this period, boosting exposure. Brands can leverage this unparalleled visibility by partnering with athletes through OpenSponsorship. Whether it’s creating authentic content or promoting campaigns tied to holiday moments, brands can connect with players who resonate deeply with fans. OpenSponsorship provides seamless access to these athletes, enabling partnerships that amplify brand messages during the NFL's most culturally iconic season. Below are some of the stars playing over the holiday season looking to make an impact who are available to sponsor through OpenSponsorship.
Miami Dolphins
Instagram Followers - 2.7m
The Miami Dolphins wide receiver, Hill, known as "Cheetah" for his unmatched speed, earned multiple Pro Bowl selections. In 2023, he surpassed 1,700 receiving yards, making him one of the league’s top deep threats. Hill has a bubbly personality to go along with his success as a Super Bowl Champion. He was voted as the best NFL player by his peers in 2023.
Kansas City Chiefs
Instagram Followers - 1.7m
Playing for the Chiefs, Hopkins is a five-time All-Pro known for his incredible hands. He reached 10,000 career receiving yards in 2023, showcasing his continued dominance. In his 12th season, Hopkins has finally joined a Super Bowl contender and will look to showcase his ability on the national stage alongside Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Miami Dolphins
Instagram Followers - 1.6m
A star cornerback for the Dolphins, Ramsey is a six-time Pro Bowler known for his lockdown coverage. He has consistently been seen as the best at his position throughout his career. One of only 15 players ever in his position to be drafted in the top 5, Ramsey has continued his dominance from college into the NFL, winning a Super Bowl in 2022.
Dallas Cowboys
Instagram Followers - 924k
The Dallas Cowboys’ linebacker is a game-changer, earning three consecutive All-Pro selections and Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021. His unique combination of speed and power makes him one of the league's top pass rushers. Parsons is undoubtedly the defensive lynchpin of America’s team.
Detroit Lions
Instagram Followers - 746k
The Lions’ wide receiver had a tremendous breakout season in 2023. His journey was documented in the Netflix documentary series Receiver, offering many viewers insight into his personality. His work ethic and precise route-running set him apart from his contemporaries. This season, the Lions are among the favorites to win the Super Bowl, with Brown poised to play a key role.
Las Vegas Raiders
Instagram Followers - 762k
Crosby, a defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, is known for his relentless motor and high sack totals. A three-time Pro Bowler, he’s become the leader of the Raiders defense and undoubtedly their best player. Crosby was not a big college prospect and had to overcome tribulations such as alcoholism in 2020. Since then, Crosby has become a standout defensive player in the league.
New York Giants
Instagram Followers - 139k
As a defensive tackle for the New York Giants, Lawrence earned his first Pro Bowl in 2022. This season Lawrence has played tremendously posting league-leading sack totals at his position. Known for his powerful interior rush, he consistently disrupts opposing offenses. “Sexy Dexy” looks set to dominate the interior for years to come in the Big Apple.
Green Bay Packers
Instagram Followers - 143k
A promising young receiver with the Green Bay Packers, Reed has impressed with his versatility as both a receiver and returner. His early-season flashes demonstrate potential for dynamic playmaking, and he has made a giant leap compared to his rookie season. He has emerged as the favorite target on the Packers who appear to be championship contenders.
Conclusion
The holiday season holds immense significance for the NFL, merging tradition, high-stakes competition, and unmatched viewership. Recently, the NFL has boosted the exposure of these games with new streaming partners involved such as Amazon and Netflix, bringing unparalleled access. These games often feature pivotal matchups, shaping playoff trajectories and increasing the stakes for players and teams. The importance of NFL games during the holidays creates a unique opportunity for brands to connect with deeply engaged audiences. Through OpenSponsorship, brands can partner with NFL athletes to harness their influence and create authentic, impactful campaigns. From sharing holiday-themed content to aligning with the athletes' personal brands, OpenSponsorship offers a streamlined way for brands to maximize their visibility and impact during the NFL’s most culturally significant season.