There will be no more branding on NFL helmets used on the field. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed Friday the league has decided not to allow any manufacturer to display its company logo on the helmet's nose bumper.
In 1989, after many manufacturers went out of business, the league agreed to give Riddell sole on-field marketing rights to helmets on the field in perpetuity.
Players could wear any brand of helmet they wanted as long as it lived up to the required standard, but could only display the company's logo if they wore Riddell.
But concern over the idea that the league was endorsing one brand over another as the concussion lawsuits mounted resulted in the league severing the deal at the end of the 2013 season.
After the deal ended, it was unclear whether the league would allow all manufacturers to display their logo or none at all.
The NFL ultimately decided on the latter.
The helmet companies won't be completely shut out from being associated with the league. Riddell has extended its deal that allows them to produce helmets with league logos that are most frequently used for autographs. Riddell and Xenith will be allowed to use league trademarks in its marketing materials.
Last August, the NFL reached an $765 million agreement with former players who had sued the league for their issues with concussions and their apparent aftermath.
But the proposed amount was rejected by U.S. District Judge Anita Brody on the basis the amount might not be sufficient. Earlier this week, seven retired NFL players filed a motion with the court to express that sentiment.
Thousands of former players are separately suing Riddell in more than 50 cases, many claiming, among other things, that the company mischaracterized how much the helmet could prevent brain injury. The company says the claims are without merit and will defend them.