Pepsi is kicking off the 2026 NFL season with a free-product giveaway aimed at tailgaters and gameday hosts. Throughout NFL Kickoff weekend (September 9-14), fans can claim a complimentary 12-pack of Pepsi Zero Sugar via an online promotion. The offer supports the brand's return to its "Tailgating Deserves Pepsi" platform, centered on the premise that the beverage complements gameday food.
Campaign Stars Hall of Famer, NFL Player The initiative features a campaign starring Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis and NFL player Justin Jefferson. In the lead spot, Bettis plays "the official referee of gameday flavor," throwing the flag when tailgaters serve food without Pepsi. "Regardless of whether the starting lineup includes pizza, hot dogs, burgers, wings or anything in between, Pepsi's bold flavor brings out the best in every bite," the brand stated. Two additional campaign spots will air throughout the season during high-profile NFL moments—one set in a fan's home and another in a grocery store aisle. Pepsi is also planning exclusive merchandise drops, tailgate experiences, and team-specific activations as the season progresses.
Why It Matters
The promotion taps into peak consumption seasons for carbonated soft drinks and leverages sports sponsorship to drive trial and brand engagement among a core demographic. Foodservice operators and retailers stocking for gameday events should expect increased consumer interest in Pepsi products during the promotional window.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
