Over 100 NFL Players Face Penalties for Ticket Sales Violations

More than 100 players from approximately half of the NFL’s 32 teams are facing fines and potential suspensions for allegedly selling their Super Bowl LIX tickets above face value, violating league policies. Multiple sources confirmed that these actions have drawn scrutiny from the NFL and could result in significant penalties for those involved.

According to a memo obtained by ESPN, under the agreement between the NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), players found in violation of this rule will face fines amounting to 1.5 times the face value of the tickets. Additionally, they will lose their allotted tickets for the next two Super Bowls. Players currently participating in the game will have the option to purchase seats at face value. Those who choose to reject these penalties may face suspension from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, as stated by sources with direct knowledge of the matter.

The investigation revealed that team employees and players sold tickets to a small group of “bundlers” who were connected to ticket resellers. Prices on secondary markets for the upcoming Super Bowl, scheduled for February 11, 2024, in New Orleans, reportedly ranged from $2,588 to nearly $3,500 for the cheapest seats, with some tickets selling for over $10,000.

In a detailed memo addressed to all teams, Sabrina Perel, the NFL’s chief compliance officer, indicated that the league’s initial investigation confirmed that a number of NFL players and coaches from various clubs sold tickets above their face value, contradicting league policy. Perel emphasized the importance of adhering to the league’s long-standing policy, which is enshrined in the collective bargaining agreement. This policy prohibits league or club employees, including players, from selling NFL game tickets acquired from their employer for more than the ticket’s face value or for an amount greater than what they originally paid.

The internal memo also indicated that players and employees who had more direct involvement with the bundlers would face increased penalties. In response to this incident, the NFL has announced plans to enhance mandatory training for all league personnel ahead of Super Bowl LX. This training will focus on reinforcing the rules and the overarching principle that no individual should benefit financially from their association with the NFL at the expense of fans.

The league’s firm stance on ticket resale violations highlights its commitment to maintaining fairness and integrity in the sport, ensuring that fans have access to tickets at reasonable prices. As the situation continues to unfold, the implications for the involved players and teams remain significant, potentially affecting their standing within the league and their relationships with fans.