The NFL's next international excursion, a Week 1 clash between the Packers and Eagles in Sao Paulo, Brazil, won't be without drama.
That's because, according to Packers running back Josh Jacobs, the league is strongly recommending players don't wear green during their stay.
In an appearance on former NFL star Chris Long's "Green Light" podcast, Jacobs revealed that he and his fellow competitors had been informed that they should not wear green during their time in Sao Paulo, as it is a color allegedly affiliated with gang activity.
NFL players are being told not to wear green in Brazil for the Eagles vs Packers week 1 game
— chris long (@JOEL9ONE) June 6, 2024
Full Josh Jacobs interview out now on @YouTubehttps://t.co/5Ri3uC6w0s pic.twitter.com/VmuivtC90l
That might not actually be the case, however. In reality, the informal ban on green may have more to do with a soccer rivalry than anything else.
And the day after Jacobs' comments, NFL spokesperson Michael Signora told the Philadelphia Inquirer that "You will see a stadium full of fans wearing the green of the Eagles and the green of the Packers." He added that Jacobs' claim was "not true" and said the green was related to soccer.
The contest between the Packers and the Eagles will take place at Corinthians Arena, the home stadium of Brazilian superpowers Corinthians. Corinthians rivals are none other than Palmeiras, another iconic side that dons greens during its games.
As the Daily Mail reported, that informal ban impacts both fans and players. Former Corinthians striker Jo was handed a fine after wearing green cleats during one of his games.
"I would never use green boots because of my history with Corinthians, a club I have loved since I was little," Jo said in response, per the Daily Mail. "I would never disrespect Corinthians, much less the fans. I have always honored this shirt and I always will honor it."
