It’s possible in football, but less common, I think because helmets make them less recognizable.
It’s the marketing of the two sports.
The NBA is a player marketed sport. People have favorite players (Bron, KD, Luka, Jokic, Jordan) more than favorite teams. That’s what the league pushes.
NFL is a team marketed sport. Nobody really follows players from team to team. Also, even the way they broadcast games you HAVE to root for your local teams pretty much because that’s all you can consistently watch because of the local networks. Unless you’re a cowboys fan who always have national games. Lol. NFL makes sure no player is ever bigger than the shield.
The NBA doesn’t have control over HS kids brands of course, but they do love it when the Flagg’s, Lamelo’s, Zion’s, Wemby’s etc. enter the league because they know they’re bringing a big fan base with them.