The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) wants its players to start making money through crypto. The group announced yesterday a partnership with FanChain, a decentralized platform that allows users to create streams and provide commentary on a variety of sporting events. Players are now being encouraged by the NFLPA to participate in the platform by providing livestreams, commentary on games and additional content that will allow them to pick up some extra money in additional to their salaries.

Casey Schwab, VP of business and legal affairs for the NFLPA, said, “When you look at blockchain, and obviously currencies have been the most ubiquitous use of blockchain today, but when we look at tokenized assets or tokens or [non-fungible tokens], we look at the different ways we can try to create products that are going to be sustainable and long-lasting.

“Because of the decentralized nature of the platform, anyone can get on it, players can get on it. NFL players are really interested in blockchain, in crypto … if a player calls me and asks ‘how do I get involved’ I’d suggest he go on SportsCastr and start generating tokens.”

FanChain is an endeavor launched a few months ago by SportsCastr, a blockchain startup offering its own digital currency called the FANZ. The NFLPA has purchased a minority stake in the company, with Schwab saying of SportsCastr, “They are building an entire universe. To use an analogy, they’re not just building the video game, they’re building the video game, the console, the outlets [and] the television. That’s a big endeavor.”

Athletes will be able to pick up FANZ tokens either by providing content on the platform or through donations given to them directly by fans. If they wish, players can also create subscription-only streams, as well as lead discussions on sports other than football. According to Schwab, football isn’t the sports industry interested in teaming up with FanChain, but he didn’t elaborate further.