My Top 5 NFL Logo Obsessions (Because Football and Design are My Jams)
Okay, folks, it’s February, which means one thing: Super Bowl LIX is practically breathing down our necks. February 9th, mark your calendars! As a casual football fan (yes, I’m one of those people who only really gets into it during the playoffs—don’t judge me), the Super Bowl is always a spectacle. And let’s be real, it’s a massive playground for brands trying to snag some of those sweet, sweet eyeballs. Last year, we’re talking over 120 million viewers!
But me? I’m a designer. So, while everyone else is losing their minds over touchdowns, I’m drooling over the logos. Seriously, the team branding, the motion graphics, the uniforms, the merch—it’s a visual feast. A graphic design buffet of consistency and cohesiveness. It’s my happy place!
So, without further ado, here are a few of my absolute favourite NFL logos, the ones that make my design-loving heart go pitter-patter:
Detroit Lions:
Remember the dark days of the 0-16 season back in 2008? Well, the Lions responded with a rebrand, and it was a total game-changer. They took that lion and gave it a serious upgrade. More detail, more fierce, actual eyes! So much better than the 1961 version. The black accent was a nice touch, but then in 2017, they ditched the black outline and went with a silver silhouette. Simple, but brilliant. It gave the blue lion a whole new lease on life. Talk about a glow-up!
Atlanta Falcons:
Red and black? Always a winning combo in my book. And the Falcons’ logo? Sleek, sharp, perfection. The old logo was a bit more menacing, which, I get it, football is a contact sport. But the current logo? It screams speed, power, determination, and forward momentum. It’s like the logo is saying, “We’re not just playing, we’re conquering.”
Philadelphia Eagles:
Sticking with the bird theme, I’m also a huge fan of the Eagles’ logo. That detailed, illustrative eagle head? Pure artistry. And the depth! Chef’s kiss. Plus, it faces left, which is unusual for NFL logos (most face right, symbolizing forward progress). But the Eagles? They’re sneaky. If you look closely at the feathers on the eagle’s neck, you’ll see a hidden “E.” Genius! A subtle detail that makes this logo truly iconic.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
Okay, more red and black (I have a type, what can I say?). The Buccaneers’ logo is just so cool and fierce. Remember the original “Bucco Bruce” logo? A pirate with a knife in his mouth and a mischievous wink? Legendary. That logo carried the brand until 1996, when they switched to the pirate flag. It’s been tweaked and polished over the years, but it’s still rocking that skull, swords, and football vibe. Who doesn’t love a pirate flag? Arrrr!
Tennessee Titans:
From the Houston Oilers and their oil rig derrick to the Tennessee Oilers and finally, the Tennessee Titans – what a journey! I love the name “Titans,” it’s perfect for football, especially in the “everything’s bigger in the South” spirit. And the logo? The movement, the flames, the chiseled “T” – it’s all power and strength, exactly what you want from a pro football team. The contrasting red and two-tone blues are a brilliant touch. Cool and intimidating, all at the same time.
So there you have it, my top NFL logo obsessions; be sure to check out my other logo obsessions. I’m a design junkie, it’s one of my passions. I can’t help but smile when I see great design. So, next time you’re watching a game, unwrapping your favourite snack, or unboxing some fresh kicks, remember: someone poured their heart and soul into that design. And that, my friends, is something worth celebrating.
