Winston Files Trademark for “Famous Jameis”

Los Angeles – Jameis Winston earned the nickname “Famous Jameis” in little league baseball. Now as the likely number one NFL draft pick, Winston is seeking trademark protection for Famous Jameis.

The NFL hopeful has an impressive resume, including a Heisman Trophy award and a National Title. His token name became even more well-known during his 2013 undefeated season as a quarterback for Florida State.

According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office website (“USPTO”), a Trademark Application was filed on Winston’s behalf on February 5th. The “Famous Jameis” trademark was filed in relation to a number of apparel items including “clothing, uniforms, sports equipment, and sports camps”

There is no doubt that Winston’s name could be valuable when used in relation to merchandise, among other products, if he becomes a successful NFL player. In response to comments about capitalizing on his career, Winston’s representatives mentioned that his primary focus is football. However, he is looking to protect his intellectual property as his career is launching.

One Alabama man already attempted to reap the benefits of “Famous Jameis.” The name was printed on t-shirts and other clothing, and following this the man applied for the Trademark in 2013 apparently without Winston’s consent. The filing was later challenged and then abandoned.

As an Alabama native himself, Winston was reportedly not paying attention to the growing use of “Famous Jameis” is 2013. Jameis was also known as “Jaboo” in his hometown. Jaboo is a registered trademark for athletic apparel owned by a man in Florida, but it is not owned by Winston.

Winston’s actions regarding his rise to fame are not uncommon. Several others in the sporting industry have filed Trademark Applications in order to protect their intellectual property.

Another recipient of the Heisman Trophy, Johnny Manziel, is among the list of athletes who have also filed Trademark Applications. Unfortunately for Manziel, who is now in rehab, his rookie season was uninspiring and so far none of his trademark applications have been approved. His primary “Johnny Football” application was refused due to a likelihood of confusion with three other registrations. And with Manziel in rehab, his trademark application for “The House that Johnny Built” may take on new meaning.