One is a powerful, super-rich empire that rules the land with famous brand names. The other is, well, the exact same thing. When you think of it that way, a team-up between Disney—home of Marvel, Pixar, Lucasfilm, and more—and the National Football League—home of the Cowboys, Chiefs, Steelers, and others—makes sense. But how, exactly? And why?
Earlier this year, Disney and the NFL announced an upcoming collaboration in which each team would be assigned a Disney character for a future line of merchandise. This week, the full lineup was revealed, and it is fascinating, confusing, and everything in between.
Some of them make sense. Thor for the Minnesota Vikings? Great. The Lion King, Simba, for the Detroit Lions? Sure. Others are equally logical, but maybe less marketable. Stinky Pete the prospector for the San Francisco 49ers? Sure, but, really? Maximus the horse for the Denver Broncos? Yes, that’s a “bronco,” but most people would probably have to look up which movie he’s even from (It’s Tangled).
Then there are a few that just kind of defy explanation; they either half-make sense or are just plain weird. The Millennium Falcon for the Atlanta Falcons? We get it, but why? Chewbacca for the Green Bay Packers? What? Darth Vader for the Las Vegas Raiders? They do know there are actual Raiders in Star Wars, right?
Here are just a few of the logos and, below, we’ll have a list of them all, including the Disney-approved explanations.
Buffalo Bills’ Fan pick is Disney’s Beast: Raw strength and duality—intensity with a loyal edge.
Miami Dolphins’ Fan pick is Disney’s King Triton: Ruler of the seas and a symbol of strength, King Triton is a natural fit for Miami. His oceanic roots and regal presence reflect the franchise’s enduring legacy.
New England Patriots’ Fan pick is Marvel’s Captain America: Heritage and heroism—a modern take on an enduring symbol of leadership and patriotism.
New York Jets’ Fan pick is Disney and Pixar’s Buzz Lightyear: Speed, flight, and confidence—anchored in aviation roots.
Baltimore Ravens’ Fan pick is Disney’s Diaval and Maleficent: Mysterious, methodical and intimidating, this powerful duo captures the Ravens’ relentless presence and purple-and-black identity.
Cincinnati Bengals’ Fan pick is Disney’s Shere Khan: Stripes, swagger and apex-predator energy.
Cleveland Browns’ Fan pick is Disney’s Pluto: Loyal and always ready to tussle when necessary, much like the Dawg Pound.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Fan pick is Disney’s Pete: Blue-collar, tough and unapologetically physical. Pete embodies the smash-mouth mentality Steelers fans embrace.
Houston Texans’ Fan pick is Disney and Pixar’s Jessie: The fearless Toy Story favorite captures the Lone Star spirit, grit and determination synonymous with Texas football.
Indianapolis Colts’ Fan pick is Disney’s Horace Horsecollar: A classic workhorse representing one of the NFL’s most storied franchises and the hardworking Midwest ethos.
