Texas A&M quaterback Johnny Manziel has burst onto the scene as a redshirt freshman this year and his stellar play earned him the nickname “Johnny Football.” His stats have been solid, and he already has a marquee victory under his belt, defeating #1 Alabama in Tuscaloosa on Saturday.
Now Manziel’s family is working with Texas A&M to try and trademark the moniker “Johnny Football.” Another organization has already tried to trademark the name, but it is likely that the name would be awarded to Manziel, since it actually has to do with him.
It is important to note that neither Texas A&M or the Manziel’s could make any money off of the phrase, because it would ruin his amateur status with the NCAA. The whole point of them trademarking it is to prevent other people from making a profit off of their son.
Some Manziel #2 jerseys have arrived at Texas A&M bookstore. Told more boatloads coming in on Monday.
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) November 11, 2012
This is the grey area that the NCAA has to deal with, and will keep having to deal with it as long as they refuse to give players any money or a stipend. It will be interesting to see if this incident will have any effect on the future of the NCAA’s rules.
H/T: Larry Brown Sports
Related: Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel fumbles, recovers it, and throws a TD pass
