11-07-2019, 11:59 AM
(11-07-2019, 10:59 AM)Sled21 Wrote: This is 100% correct. In fact, it is the stated reason Marvin Jones left, because even though Cincy offered him the same money Detroit did, he could grow his "Brand" easier in a larger market like Detroit. More jersey sales, more advertising and endorsement deals, more exposure that will lead to post career opportunities. Face it, outside of Cincinnati most of our team are unknowns. As a free agent, the perfect team to go to would be a larger market team in a city with low taxes.
Marvin Jones went to Detroit because he had the chance to be the No. 1 WR there when he knew he would never have that opportunity here. He went to an organization who hasn't won a playoff game since Jan 1992 so I doubt he considered the opportunity to "grow his brand" as the difference maker. Winning is a great way to grow your brand. I doubt there was any mad rush to run out and buy Marvin Jones jerseys, and I have yet to see him in any advertising spot.
Prior to the season, Odell Beckham and Baker Mayfield both were in the top 5 in jersey sales in a Cleveland market that ranks 14th in the NFL. For comparison, Cincinnati is the 16th largest market (NFL uses a 75 mile radius to determine market size). Players market themselves, mostly by play on the field (not always), for jersey sales.
By the way, no Detroit Lion is in the top 50 for jersey sales despite being the 8th largest market in the NFL, but there are MANY in the top 50 who play for "small market" teams (lower half of the league).
