When it comes to engaging fans, NFL teams have stepped up their game, with the constant advancement of team apps and innovative social media campaigns. From Twitter and Facebook, to Snapchat and Instagram, NFL teams are giving their fans more access and inside content than ever before.
Below, we chose the top fan-engaging team for each social media site. The choices were based on how often they posted, their interaction with fans, and their creativity with their content.
YouTube: Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons use YouTube to keep their fans engaged with the team on a daily basis. Their videos range from press conferences and exclusive interviews, to off-the-field activities that the team does together. One example of this is a video showing highlights from when the Falcons attended a Cirque du Soleil show. With their upcoming game being played overseas in London, the Falcons have created a “London Lingo” video series, where players discuss what they think popular words used in London mean.
Other video topics of the Falcons include “mic’d up”, where fans can hear what Falcons players are saying as they participate in games and practices, as well as videos showing community service the Falcons do as a team.
The Atlanta Falcons use YouTube as a way for fans to connect with the team through videos that go further than a post-practice interview or a press conference. Fans can see what the Falcons do in their free time, as well as learn a little more about each player’s personality.
Facebook: New York Giants
The New York Giants utilize Facebook to enable their fans to give responses to questions posted involving the team. An example of this is a post about the Giants leading the NFL in interceptions. The post includes a link to photos showing every Giants interception so far this season, and then asks fans, “Which interception is your favorite?” This prompts fans to comment with their favorite interception, therefore, enabling them to feel that they are more engaged and connected to the team.
The Giants also use Facebook to interact with fans on aspects off the playing field as well. One example is when Facebook fans were asked to choose which Halloween costume rookie Odell Beckham Jr. would wear to visit children at the Hackensack University Medical Center. Fans of the Giants’ Facebook page were able to “like” the picture of the costume that they wanted him to wear to the event, and the picture with the most likes would be the costume he’d wear.
The New York Giants utilize Facebook to post exclusive material, while also encouraging fans to respond to the comments posted, which makes them stand out from many other NFL teams.
Instagram: Denver Broncos
Numerous NFL teams are utilizing Instagram to the fullest extent, but the Denver Broncos combine many aspects to create a unique feed for followers. The Broncos post pictures of fans at games, and posts exclusive infographics, including game previews for fans that are preparing to watch the game.
The Broncos also re-post Broncos-related images from other Instagram accounts, such as the NFL’s and ESPN’s. This poses a convenience for fans, who don’t need to scroll through other Instagram feeds just to find posts about the Broncos. They also have weekly posts for certain days of the week, including #ThrowbackThursday. Peyton Manning’s team also makes their account unique by posting images from around Mile High Stadium, as well as pictures from practices and game-day that fans can’t find anywhere else.
A photo posted by Denver Broncos (@denverbroncos) on
With a combination of unique pictures and graphics, and their ability to place all Broncos information from all Instagram sources in one place, the Denver Broncos are utilizing this social media app to the fullest extent.
Snapchat: Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles have been on Snapchat for longer than many NFL teams; and they continue to show why they’re the best at it on a daily basis. The Eagles post Snapchat stories throughout the week leading up to games, as well as on game day. These posts range from off-day activities, practice sessions, and pre-game warm-ups.
The Eagles also use Snapchat to bring fans a more comical side of the team. One example of this is a picture making fun of running back LeSean McCoy’s shoe choices.
The Eagles utilize Snapchat by posting photos and videos for fans on a daily basis, giving them insight into what being on the Philadelphia Eagles is like. The Eagles also make sure the fans know they’re important, by posting photos of players talking to fans with the caption “Fans First”.
Twitter: New England Patriots
The New England Patriots utilize Twitter to connect with their fans in countless ways. Like the Broncos, the Patriots also have posts for each day of the week, including #TomTuesday and #WilforkWednesday, where fans have the chance to win signed items from defensive tackle Vince Wilfork based on how many retweets the post has.
#WilforkWednesday! Follow us & RT to enter to win a signed Wilfork photo: http://t.co/1JSZGoB7ad More RTs=More prizes pic.twitter.com/naPvDpD8VO
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 22, 2014
The Patriots also use Twitter to acknowledge Patriots fans. One fan promised to get a Patriots tattoo if she scored tickets to a Patriots game. The Patriots account then retweeted a picture of the fan and her tattoo. The account also replies to fans with questions or shout-outs on a daily basis, making fans connected to the team on a different level than just being able to see what goes on in the locker room.
Remember the #HardCorePatsFan contest winner who promised a tattoo if she won tix? Yeah, she followed through: pic.twitter.com/2LFAF1bwSI
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 23, 2014
Besides the recaps from press conferences and games, the Patriots use Twitter on a more casual and fun basis. The account also shows what the team does on their off days, including community service.
Patriots players test out their dance moves & remodeling skills at @HydeSwareTF. Photos: http://t.co/6NIVL8wQT1 pic.twitter.com/CxBest4MP7
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 22, 2014
The Patriots utilize Twitter to not only post insider information for fans, they also utilize the social media site to engage with fans on a more personal level, by tweeting at them and using days of the week to create hashtags such as #TomTuesday, where fans can win gear signed by players.
Overall, NFL teams do an outstanding job on social media. Every team has a Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram account, with more teams joining Snapchat as well. For the league, this social success is a strong asset; and helps to keep excitement and news circulating throughout the calendar year.