EA Extends NFL License

Irking other publishers, EA has announced that it has extended its exclusive licensing relationships with the National Football League and NFL Players to develop, publish and distribute football video games. The original agreement was done back in December 2004, giving EA the rights to NFL teams, stadiums and players through the end of the 2012 season, which culminates in February 2013. The agreement also provides EA access to both NFL Films and the NFL Network for its games; no financial details were disclosed.

“This is all about bringing authenticity and realism to NFL videogames,” said Eric Grubman, President of NFL Ventures. “EA SPORTS continually works to maintain the cutting edge for NFL products across a variety of gaming platforms. We like the fact that they never rest.”

“This is great news and it means we can continue to produce the best interactive experience possible. It also allows NFL PLAYERS, the NFL and EA to continue to build our brands,” said Gene Upshaw, Chairman of NFL PLAYERS and Executive Director of the National Football League Players Association. “We offer a very unique experience. “

Madden NFL 08 is the latest in EA’s series of football games. It is now available on all current platforms in the market.