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The NFL Players Association released the top 50 sales list from the NFL Players Inc., which is their licensing and marketing subsidiary.
The list includes sales of all products, including jerseys, of the more than 70 licensees given out by the NFL. It is compiled from sales during March 1, 2013, through February 28, 2014, and the total retail sales add up to over a billion dollars.
The Chicago Bears are just one of seven teams with 3 or more players in the top 50. Those Bears are; Brandon Marshall (31), Jay Cutler (36), and Matt Forte (49).
Since coming to the Bears Marshall has been a model citizen. He seems to have left his troubles in the past, and he's now an outspoken advocate for mental illness. He has been as spectacular on the field, as he has been off.
Jay Cutler on the list is probably a shock to some, but he's another guy that seems to have left his reputation in the past. He's still not as forthcoming with the media at times, but he has embraced his role as face of the franchise under head coach Marc Trestman. Plus he is the quarterback of one of the largest markets in the NFL.
I was surprised to see Matt Forte on the list, not because I don't feel his talent is worthy, but because I thought he was under-appreciated nationally. He's one of the best backs in the NFL, but he doesn't seem to be as outspoken enough to have such popularity. I suppose it's a god thing that a guy can quietly go about his business and garner the respect from fans.
Tops of the sale list is Super Bowl champion quarterback Russell Wilson, who just so happens to be one of my favorite players. He plays the game the right way, he's active in his communities, and he's very likable with the media.
Seattle has two other players on the list. Their quiet and productive connoisseur of Skittles, tailback Marshawn Lynch is at 7th overall. Making his debut at 12th overall is the controversial Richard Sherman, who is another one of my favorites.
The Dallas Cowboys have five players on the list, which is the most, followed by the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers at four each.
The teams tied with the Bears at three players apiece are the aforementioned Seahawks, the Green Bay Packers and the Houston Texans.
What are your thoughts on the list?