What'd I Say: T.O., Other Star Athletes Trademark Catch Phrases

Terrell Owens may not be the irresistible force he once was on the football field. But the wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals remains practically unparalleled in the increasingly competitive arena of sports-star branding, with a children’s book, breakfast cereal and VH1 reality show among the properties in his personal-brand portfolio.

Owens also has gained trademark protection for “I Love Me Some Me,” one of his constantly repeated catch phrases. Still on a trademark-office docket somewhere: “Getcha Popcorn Ready,” reflecting “T.O.’s” unique end-zone bit after he scores a touchdown — grabbing a fan’s bag of popcorn and throwing it all over himself.

But Owens is getting more competition in the phrase-trademarking arena.

On and off the field, T.O. is vying with the likes of other NFL stars, facing other increasingly brand-savvy players such as Darrell Revis, the “shut-down corner” for the New York Jets. His stellar play has created what has been called “Revis Island” in the defensive backfield, because no quarterback wants to throw in his direction. So Revis decided to try to lay claim to the phrase.

Maybe fans can turn this trend around and suggest phrases that they would like to see trademarked on behalf of stars.

So, for LeBron James, the Miami Heat star who left Cleveland fans in a rage after he left their Cavaliers for sunnier NBA pastures this year? Instead of his Nike-fied "What should I do?" tagline, his catch phrase could be, “It’s All About Me.”

And for Brett Favre, the “retirement” specialist? “Maybe I Should Just Quit” is available.