Action Figure News

McFarlane Toys debuted their NFL 3-packs with four sets (Giants, Steelers, Patriots and Cowboys) exclusive to Toys 'R' Us stores in 2006. The 3-packs were designed to appeal to new and casual collectors as they were mostly re-issues of previous figures. According to McFarlane the 3-packs were successful issue, although many serious collectors were extremely unhappy that the packs contained mostly reissued figures rather than variations that would have appealed to casual and serious collectors as well.

In 2007 McFarlane will release a trio of NFL 3-packs that improve on the 2006 3-packs with a greater percentage of figures that are different than their previously issued regular versions. Of the nine figures in the three 3-packs, seven will be rendered in jersey combinations never offered before.

The Philadelphia Eagles 3-pack includes Donovan McNabb 2, Brian Dawkins, and Brian Westbrook. The three figures will be painted in the Eagles' three different jerseys (green, white and black) making two of the figures available in jersey combinations never offered before.

The remaining two 3-packs are the first of their kind for NFL 3-packs in that they don't feature current players from one team only.

The Dallas Cowboys Quarterback 3-pack offers a look at the chronology of the key position in the Cowboys' offense with figures of Roger Staubach, Troy Aikman and Tony Romo. These three figures will be painted in three different Dallas jerseys, making two of the figures available in jersey combinations never offered before.

The "Elite Club" Running Back 3-pack takes a page from Fantasy Football leagues nationwide and picks the top three selections from many draft boards: running backs LaDainian Tomlinson, Larry Johnson and Shaun Alexander. This pack will showcase Johnson's first sculpt, Alexander's second and Tomlinson's third. All three figures will be offered in jersey combinations never available anywhere before.

These 3-packs will be available at Toys 'R' Us stores in early October.