Why Marvin Harrison Jr.'s Jersey Is Missing From Stores

Marvin Harrison Jr. is a stand-out rookie wide receiver drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. During the 2024 season, he put up 885 yards receiving and eight touchdowns, giving fans a glimpse of future stardom. However, if you visit the Arizona Cardinals’ team store, his jersey will be conspicuously absent from the shelves. In fact, no official NFL or NFL partner store has Marvin Harrison Jr. jerseys for sale.

The reason is a lawsuit filed by sports merchandising company Fanatics against Harrison Jr. and his father, Marvin Harrison Sr., who represents him. The dispute stems from a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal Harrison Jr. signed while in college at Ohio State.

In the July 2024 complaint, Fanatics alleges that Harrison Jr. did not fulfill his obligations under the deal. Harrison Jr. was purportedly required to provide autographs, signed trading cards, game-worn apparel, and other marketing assets to Fanatics—obligations he allegedly failed to meet. Fanatics also claims that Harrison Jr. and Harrison Sr. engaged in fraud. As a result, Fanatics claims it has sustained “millions of dollars” in damages.

Further complicating matters, Fanatics is the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of officially licensed NFL jerseys. Because of the dispute, when Harrison Jr. was drafted, he did not sign the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) group licensing agreement that allows NFL partners to use a player’s name, image, and likeness. Thus the NFLPA has informed the NFL, the Cardinals, and Fanatics that Harrison Jr.’s jersey and memorabilia cannot be sold until further notice.

As we approach the end of the season, many fans are anxiously awaiting the opportunity to buy a Harrison Jr. jersey. But they may have to wait until the case is resolved.

For athletes navigating NIL agreements, consulting an attorney experienced in name, image, and likeness issues can help avoid disputes and protect their rights.