Union hires Nassar to run Players Inc.

WASHINGTON (AP) Ahmad Nassar has been hired to run NFL Players Inc., the licensing and marketing arm of the NFL Players Association.

Nassar's appointment as NFLPI president, announced Wednesday, will become effective Monday, Feb. 2, the day after the Super Bowl.

He replaces Keith Gordon, who announced in August he was leaving the position after nearly six years.

Nassar joined NFLPI in 2009, most recently serving as executive vice president of business affairs and general counsel. Nassar has overseen the organization's major legal and business initiatives, including negotiations with union partners such as Electronic Arts, Nike, Panini and ESPN. He also helped in negotiations on Players Inc.'s 10-year commercial agreement with the NFL.

NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith said, ''Ahmad brings a unique blend of legal expertise, proven business acumen and vision for NFLPI that will serve him and the organization well moving forward.''

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