Unfortunately, for Lynch, showing up wasn’t the only criteria. Sources tell ESPN that, after the Super Bowl, the league will review whether the hat Lynch wore during the event, which bears his “Beast Mode” logo, was permissible. If the NFL rules that Lynch used media day to promote a brand that was not approved by the league, he could face a significant fine. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy declined to comment.
At Wednesday’s media availability, Lynch wore another hat with the Beast Mode logo, with different colors. His Wednesday appearance lasted about five minutes. He responded to reporters’ inquiries by repeatedly saying, “You know why I’m here,” before concluding the session with “Thank you, I appreciate it,” and leaving.
The NFL makes clear to players that they cannot wear brands that conflict with league partners on the field during games and during postgame interviews. That is extended to Super Bowl media day, where a record number of cameras are on the players.
That’s why the league fined Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher $100,000 for wearing a Vitaminwater hat on his podium during Super Bowl XLI in 2007. The league had, and still has, an official drink deal with Pepsi, which also owns Gatorade.
Lynch’s Beast Mode hat was selling on the clothing line’s website and advertised as “the hat Marshawn wore during the 2015 SB Media Day.” The hat, which costs $33, sold out and the site noted Wednesday morning that it was hoping to restock it as soon as possible. Lynch owns four trademarks to the phrase “Beast Mode” and has filed for three additional trademarks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.