Texas Longhorns (backup) quarterback Arch Manning has joined forces with trading card company Panini America to sign an exclusive name, image, and likeness deal.
The partnership marks the quarterback’s first foray into the NIL arena, and it looks to be a profitable one.
Manning, the phenom nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli, grandson of Archie, and son of Cooper, has garnered immense attention throughout his young career. As a highly sought-after high school recruit, Manning was ranked as high as #1 in the country by some outlets.
He ultimately committed to Texas, choosing the Longhorns over some of the most prominent football programs in the nation.
The multiyear agreement between Manning and Panini America will center around the creation of exclusive trading cards, including autographed editions, featuring the rising star quarterback.
Texas QB Arch Manning has signed his first NIL deal, a multi-year agreement with Panini American.
The former Five-Star Plus+ recruit's first card is a one-of-one Prizm black autographed card. He has a $2.8 million On3 NIL Valuation.https://t.co/xEHDdOEomX pic.twitter.com/6hI876H1iO
— On3 NIL (@On3NIL) July 25, 2023
The collaboration will offer fans and collectors the opportunity to own memorabilia connected to one of the most heralded college quarterbacks in history – even though he probably won’t play until next season.
The first release under the partnership will be a unique “one-of-one” Prizm black autographed card, set to be auctioned this week on Panini’s official website.
Notably, all proceeds from the auction’s sale will be directed to St. David’s HealthCare and St. David’s Foundation in Austin, Texas, supporting efforts to improve the health and well-being of children in the community.
“Getting my first Panini trading card is something I couldn’t have imagined growing up,” Arch expressed in a statement. “Working with Panini to have my first trading card benefit the larger community is special. Helping children live healthy and fulfilling lives is something that has always been important to my family.”
The quarterback’s exclusive deal with Panini America follows in the footsteps of his teammate, starting quarterback Quinn Ewers, who also inked an exclusive agreement with the trading card company.
Some fans were quick to point out the previous stance that Arch had allegedly took of not accepting any NIL deals until he was named Texas’ starting quarterback.
Many people wait in the bushes for any excuse they can find to attack a Manning.
What is your take on Manning’s NIL deal?
More importantly, what is your take on NIL as a whole?