Panini America, a prominent name in the trading card industry, has just landed a significant deal with Vernell Brown III, also known as “VB3.” The high school football standout from Jones High School in Orlando has sealed a multi-year, exclusive partnership with Panini America. This agreement will see Brown’s autographed trading cards and memorabilia featured in Panini’s collegiate product lines, showcasing his exceptional talent.
VB3 has quickly risen through the ranks as one of the most promising wide receiver prospects in the nation. His stellar performance last season, boasting 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns, solidified his reputation. In the ongoing 2024 season, Brown has maintained his impressive form with 51 catches for 664 yards and four touchdowns. Following his commitment to the University of Florida earlier this year, Brown’s marketability soared, leading to this lucrative partnership with Panini America.
Joining a group of noteworthy young talents such as Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, Dylan Raiola, Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, and Zachariah Branch, Brown is poised to leave a significant mark at the collegiate level. Jason Howarth, Panini America’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, expressed his confidence in Brown’s potential, highlighting him as a dynamic player set to be prominently featured in Panini’s collegiate collections and campaigns.
This collaboration also marks Panini’s foray into the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) space. The introduction of Panini College has allowed athletes from partnered universities to have their own trading cards, initially launching at Ohio State, Nebraska, and Texas, with intentions of expanding to more schools in the future. This move aligns with Panini’s commitment to embracing and supporting athletes in the evolving landscape of collegiate sports.
In light of the agreement, Brown shared his elation, describing the partnership with Panini as a dream realized. The opportunity to have his own trading card, a childhood aspiration turned into reality, holds immense significance for the talented wide receiver. As he prepares to embark on his collegiate journey with the University of Florida, Vernell Brown III is set to captivate fans not only on the football field but also through his exclusive collaboration with Panini America.
