Cisco Systems signs Agreement with the NFL
The cooperation will include building a technological league platform.

Cisco Systems Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) has signed a multi-year partnership with the National Football League (NFL), making Cisco the official NFL technology partner. Under the terms of the partnership, Cisco will leverage its industry-leading expertise in developing a connected league platform with the NFL that will bring the league together into a single connectivity base with enhanced speed, security and intelligence. The NFL has been working on a single convergent network since 2008 that will enable cities to improve network infrastructure to support normal matchday operations. The NFL's original plans focused on the network infrastructure of select buildings, but later changed to a league-wide architecture that will improve technological capabilities nationwide. Chuck Robbins, Cisco CEO and Chairman, said the NFL shares the company's vision that a connected world offers tremendous opportunity and that they are excited to be the NFL's official technology partner. Robbins said when the NFL began its sports and entertainment journey years ago, it felt confident that the right technology could shape the fan experience, and the partnership is on the way to a dynamic future. Cisco's network infrastructure currently supports Replay Control Rooms across the NFL. They are affiliated with New York City-based Art McNally Gameday Central. About two-thirds of all NFL stadiums currently use Cisco technology. Michelle McKenna, the NFL's chief information officer, said they were delighted to have Cisco on board as the NFL's official partner. She said the league has relied on Cisco for years and it is a natural fit that they are now the official NFL tech partner. McKenna said that in an increasingly digital society, reliability, speed and security are keys to the NFL's success and they are excited to bring the Cicso leadership on board to improve the fan experience. Brian Eaton, Global Sponsorship Director, said Cisco has a wealth of experience developing an innovative solution that has enabled the sports industry to provide a better fan experience, generate additional revenue and streamline business.





