Lamar Jackson, quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, recently ended a legal disagreement with Dallas Cowboys legend Troy Aikman regarding the right to use the number 8, following a similar contention with NASCAR veteran Dale Earnhardt Jr. This latest Dale Earnhardt Jr trademark dispute highlights ongoing challenges for Jackson as he seeks to claim exclusive branding rights over the No. 8 in various sports markets.
Recent Trademark Battle Involving Troy Aikman
Following his previous legal conflict, Lamar Jackson found himself in another trademark debate just months later, this time with Troy Aikman. The disagreement centered around the No. 8, which both Jackson and Aikman have worn in their respective careers. Jackson argued that if Aikman, an iconic former NFL quarterback, featured the number on his merchandise, it could mislead NFL fans and jeopardize his apparel brand’s distinctiveness.
In July 2024, Jackson filed an official challenge against Aikman’s trademark attempt. Aikman, recognized as a Pro Football Hall of Famer, responded publicly to Jackson’s move, opting for a lighthearted approach to address the situation on social media.
“Hey Lamar, looks like a worthy conversation over a couple cold EIGHT beers! Maybe Steve Young can arbitrate??” Aikman tweeted on July 20.
Instead of prolonging the legal process, Jackson and Aikman have agreed to resolve the dispute privately and outside of court, signaling an amicable end to a potentially drawn-out battle.
Background: Lamar Jackson’s Previous Dispute With Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Earlier in 2024, Jackson engaged in a similar legal dispute involving NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., who used a stylized No. 8 as part of his JRM 8 brand. Jackson felt the design closely resembled his own Era 8 collection, raising concerns that fans could confuse the two brands.
Earnhardt Jr. is known for racing with the No. 8 and Jackson currently wears the number for the Baltimore Ravens. Although Jackson initiated legal action, both parties ultimately reached a settlement without proceeding to trial. In April, Earnhardt Jr. addressed the situation with a formal statement.
“Through the USPTO, we have successfully secured the rights to the stylized 8 (the original version made popular in his racing career),” Earnhardt said. “Therefore, we will be moving away from the JRM 8 we have used since 2019. We are looking forward to the remainder of an already successful season.”
This outcome enabled Earnhardt Jr. to retain his association with the distinct version of the number, while Jackson continued developing his brand identity.
The Broader Impact for Jackson and His Brand
While these off-field legal challenges have demanded significant attention, Jackson remains a central figure in the Baltimore Ravens’ pursuit of NFL success. Fans are now watching closely to see how Jackson’s efforts translate on the field, as the team prepares for another competitive season. The conclusion of Jackson’s disputes with both Aikman and Earnhardt Jr. not only secures his branding interests but also highlights the complex dynamics involved when iconic athletes from different sports compete for similar intellectual property rights.
