Utah Utes football: Utes sign apparel deal with Under Armour Inc.

It's official. After weeks of speculation, the University of Utah football program has authorized Under Armour to become the team's offici al performance apparel and footwear outfitter. The Utes will sport new uniforms this fall under the five-year agreement that includes marketing and promotional rights.

"We're excited. The overwhelming majority of our football team was in favor of making this move," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham. "I left it up to the team council, and there was no question which direction they wanted to go."

Under Armour announced the agreement in a press release Tuesday morning. Though terms were not released, a source close to the situation said the deal is more lucrative than the eight-year, $4.1 million pact Hawaii recently signed with company.

"The University of Utah is a program committed to improving performance, and we're excited to provide them with an undeniable on-field advantage through our latest innovations in footwear, uniform designs, fabrics and textiles," said Under Armour senior vice president Kevin Haley. "We look forward to our partnership helping the Utes reach new levels of success."

The official announcement also included a comment by Whittingham.

"Our players and coaches are excited about the opportunity to wear Under Armour products," he said. "We became interested in Under Armour because of the high quality of its product line and its cutting-edge appeal. In addition to benefiting our current players and staff, our partnership with Under Armour will be a great recruiting tool."

Inside Utah's spring camp

PLAYERS ON THE RISE: The defense as a whole. "I think the defense was very active today," said Whittingham, who declined to pick out any individuals. The offense, he said, is coming along — executing better, but still having plenty of room for improvement.

INJURY REPORT: Senior Bradon Godfrey remains sidelined with a slight hamstring strain. Center Tyler Williams, who injured his shoulder earlier in camp, returned to full-time practice on Tuesday. Cornerbacks Terrell Cole (knee) and Damilyn Tanner (elbow) are participating in non-contact drills.