Posted on Jul 10
Fanatics files lawsuit against Marvin Harrison Jr. for breach of contract, citing denial of agreement existence
u/alex •
SEATTLE, WA -- A legal dispute has erupted between rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and sports merchandise company Fanatics over a contract disagreement. The details of the term sheet, which outlines the agreement between the two parties, were made public through the New York State Supreme Court. The situation has escalated with Fanatics filing a lawsuit against Harrison for breach of contract, while Harrison's attorney claims that no binding agreement exists.
Marvin Harrison Jr., a recent addition to the Arizona Cardinals, was set to receive $1.05 million from Fanatics between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2026. This compensation was in exchange for game jerseys and over 35,000 autographs. The term sheet, a document stipulating the terms and conditions of the agreement, explicitly stated that both parties would be legally bound by its provisions.
On May 18th, Fanatics filed a lawsuit against Harrison, alleging that he refused to fulfill his obligations as outlined in the contract. The sports merchandise company claims that Harrison denied the existence of the contract altogether, leading to the legal battle. The lawsuit seeks to resolve the dispute and hold Harrison accountable for his contractual commitments.
The term sheet between Harrison and Fanatics was divided into two phases. Phase 1 encompassed the period from the signing date to March 31, 2024, while Phase 2 extended from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026. During Phase 1, Harrison had specific social media and promotional obligations. In Phase 2, additional requirements included social media posts, public appearances, fan experiences, and trading card swaps.
As part of Phase 2, Harrison was guaranteed $1.05 million, comprising an $800,000 cash lump sum and $250,000 in equity in the form of Fanatics shares. The term sheet also outlined the autograph fees, setting them at $30 per autograph and $10 per inscription. However, Harrison was permitted to sign up to 100 autographs for fans, teammates, and charitable organizations without receiving payment.
Additionally, the agreement mentioned potential bonuses for Harrison, including $100,000 for Offensive Rookie of the Year, NFL MVP, or winning the Super Bowl as a starter. Furthermore, a $200,000 bonus was specified for being named the Super Bowl MVP.
The document referred to as the "binding term sheet" clearly stated that both parties would be legally bound by its terms and conditions. However, Harrison's attorney filed a motion claiming that his client does not recognize the existence of a binding contract. This discrepancy forms a crucial point of contention in the ongoing legal proceedings.
The term sheet alluded to the possibility of reducing Harrison's guarantee in the event of a trade or terminating the agreement altogether if felony charges or offensive acts harmful to Fanatics' reputation occur. The resolution of this dispute will determine the future financial obligations between Harrison and Fanatics.
As the legal battle between Marvin Harrison Jr. and Fanatics unfolds, the New York State Supreme Court will ultimately determine the validity and enforceability of the contested contract. Both parties remain embroiled in this high-stakes dispute, awaiting a resolution that will shape their professional relationship moving forward.