Applebee’s just announced an exciting partnership with the National Football League (NFL), officially starting today, April 16, 2024. This collaboration marks Applebee’s as the official grill and bar for the NFL, offering fans a unique experience both during games and everyday dining.
To kick off this new alliance, Applebee’s will be launching a special offer tied to the NFL draft. From April 25 to April 27, 2024, customers who spend $40 on an online order will get 20 free Boneless Wings added to their purchase.
This promotion gives football fans an extra reason to enjoy the draft while enjoying Applebee’s menu. It’s all part of the company’s commitment to enhance the connection between sports and dining for its customers.

The Roots and Rise of Applebee’s
Applebee’s began as a simple idea envisioned by its founders, Bill and T.J. Palmer, back in 1980. Their dream was to create a neighborhood restaurant where people could gather for great food and good times. They opened their first restaurant in Decatur, Georgia, and called it T.J. Applebee’s Rx for Edibles & Elixirs. With a focus on quality food and a welcoming atmosphere, the concept quickly became popular.
Over the years, Applebee’s evolved and rebranded, eventually becoming Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar. This cozy eatery became a staple in many communities, offering a place where friends and families could enjoy a delicious meal in a setting that felt like home. Today, there are over 1,700 Applebee’s restaurants across the globe, each serving up classic American dishes and drinks.
Applebee’s Scores Touchdown with NFL Deal
Applebee’s buzz in the news doesn’t end with delicious eats. Recently, they’ve made headlines with their partnership with the National Football League (NFL). This major play positions Applebee’s as the NFL’s official grill and bar starting in April 2024.
Additionally, they made a big splash with their promotional strategy by connecting this collaboration with the NFL Draft—an event eagerly anticipated by football fans. This promotion emphasizes Applebee’s commitment to combining sports enthusiasm with dining pleasure.
A Game-Changing Partnership
The collaboration between Applebee’s and the NFL is more than a mere business deal—it’s a move aimed at creating unforgettable experiences for sports fans and food lovers alike. As the soon-to-be official grill and bar of the NFL, Applebee’s establishes itself at the heart of American sports culture.
Imagine catching Monday Night Football with friends at your local Applebee’s, where each touchdown feels like a victory for your taste buds too. With screens showcasing the big games and a menu packed with fan favorites, Applebee’s aims to elevate the dining experience by making it part of the game day ritual.
The Draft Day deal is an example of how Applebee’s goes beyond the game, literally bringing the excitement of the NFL into customers’ homes. Spend $40 or more online, get 20 free Boneless Wings—this smart offer is a surefire way to attract both football fans and wing aficionados. Going beyond the press release of the promotion, this strategic move by Applebee’s is likely to drive online sales and engage a digitally savvy audience. The tie-in with the NFL Draft, a time of high anticipation and excitement for fans, shows Applebee’s knows when and how to capture their customer’s interest.
From The Club
Applebee’s not only killing it in the fast food game but also won the hearts of football fans with their collaboration with the NFL. They’ve successfully combined the love of the game with the love of good food – serving up dishes but also serving an experience. You’ll no longer have a hard time looking for a good meal deal for you and your family as you prepare to watch the NFL draft. It’s a win-win for both Applebee’s, NFL, and us, the fans. And I could only hope they won’t run out of Boneless wings from April 25 to 27!
Image via Applebee’s