Two NFL fans have initiated an antitrust lawsuit against the league, claiming it's preventing teams from joining the social media platform Bluesky. The lawsuit, filed in New York by Chicago Bears fan Patrick Brown and Seattle Seahawks fan Collin Vincent, alleges the NFL is restricting team and player engagement on Bluesky. Their attorney argues that the choice of social media platform should be between teams and their fans, not dictated by the league.
The logo of social media platform Bluesky is displayed on a mobile phone and tablet in Paris on Nov. 12, 2024. (Ian Langsdon/AFP via Getty Images)
The lawsuit stems from fans' frustration with limited platform options for interacting with their teams, particularly given the changes on X (formerly Twitter). The plaintiffs point to a statement from Fred Kirsch, vice president of content for Kraft Sports & Entertainment, who mentioned on a podcast that the New England Patriots were instructed by the NFL to delete their Bluesky account. Bluesky's popularity has surged, with over 30 million new users, many of whom joined after Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter and his interactions with the Trump administration.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell speaks during a news conference at the Caesars Superdome ahead of Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on Feb. 3. (AP Photo/Matt York)
The lawsuit suggests the NFL's stance on Bluesky is financially motivated, citing reports that the league seeks a paid partnership with the platform. It also alleges the NFL recently announced a ban on teams using Bluesky, although no such public announcement has been confirmed. The NFL has not yet commented on the lawsuit.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell poses with the Vince Lombardi Trophy alongside Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs helmets at a press conference ahead of Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Feb. 3. (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Currently, no major North American sports team has a Bluesky account.
