The Gridiron Gang Set, now available in Fortnite, introduces a fresh set of redesigned NFL uniforms. These uniforms are crafted with an emphasis on an aerodynamic and athletic aesthetic. The collection represents all 32 NFL teams, offering two distinct uniform styles for each. Accompanying these are the new Logo-a-go Back Bling, allowing players to display any team's logo, and customizable jersey numbers on the Outfits. Additionally, players can choose to enable a reflective visor on their helmets.
NFL Players Compete in Fortnite
Beyond the cosmetic items, the intersection of the NFL and Fortnite extends to competitive events. The reigning NFLPA Open champion Kurt Benkert of the Atlanta Falcons is slated to defend his title as "The Best Fortnite Player in the NFL." This competition, where NFL players vie for Arena points, is set to begin on December 2nd. The top performers will advance to the NFLPA Open championship in January 2021. Furthermore, the second annual Twitch Rivals Streamer Bowl, an online charity tournament featuring NFL players and Twitch streamers, is scheduled for February 4, 2021. To build anticipation for the main event, NFL Players and Twitch Streamers will participate in Showdown matches throughout December and January.
Fortnite Twitch Rivals Streamer Bowl Draft Showdown Game 4 - Game 6 Highlights
Fortnite NFL Skins: Details and Availability
The NFL-themed skins span all 32 different teams and also include a Fortnite-specific team. This unique option allows players to purchase a single skin and then switch between any team's branding. While specific details regarding the rarity and price of these items were initially unavailable, the Fortnite NFL skins were released on November 9th at 7 PM ET and were set to be available for a limited, unspecified duration.
[UPDATE] Similar to other cosmetic items in Fortnite, the NFL jersey skins have rotated out of the in-game store. Their potential return remains uncertain, which is a common practice for Fortnite's item shop, as items are typically available for set periods. Initially, players had until November 13th, 8 PM EST / 5 PM PST, to acquire these jerseys.
The NFL jerseys were priced at 1,500 V-Bucks, approximately $15 USD. Within the jersey customization options, players could select from unique styles such as Strong Guard, End Zone, Gridiron, and Spike. In addition to the jerseys, various football-related cosmetic items were available, including:
- Whistle Warrior outfit (800 V-Bucks)
- Striped Soldier outfit (800 V-Bucks)
- Upright axe (800 V-Bucks)
- Golden Pigskin axe (500 V-Bucks)
- First Downer axe (500 V-Bucks)
- Touchdown glider (500 V-Bucks)
Customization and Controversy
Players had the ability to purchase jerseys for all 32 NFL teams and customize them with any number from 0 to 99. However, the collaboration between the NFL and Epic Games was met with some controversy. Social media platforms featured instances of players creating representations of controversial NFL figures, such as Michael Vick with a dog on his back and Aaron Hernandez pointing a gun. This highlighted a sensitive aspect of the partnership, despite the skins' eventual rotation out of the store.
The rotation of the NFL jersey skins out of the in-game store is a standard procedure for Fortnite's cosmetic items. Notably, the NFL jersey skins remained available for a longer duration than many other Fortnite items.
Release Details and In-Game Store Updates
Official NFL Fortnite skins were made available on Friday, November 9th. These skins allowed players to switch between any team or number, including a fictional Fortnite team for those undecided. The skins were exclusively available in the item shop, though the initial price was not immediately disclosed.
The in-game store updates daily at 00:00 UTC. This means that the date of the shop update differs between the eastern and western hemispheres. For North and South America, and French Polynesia, the UTC- date applies. For Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania/Australia, the UTC+ date is relevant.
The NFL in Fortnite's Lore
The introduction of NFL skins also had an interesting implication within Fortnite's evolving narrative. Following a significant in-game event where Kevin the Cube exploded and transported players to another dimension before transforming into a transdimensional butterfly, the move technically made the NFL canon within the "world-hopping Fortnite universe."