Panini America, a leading name in the world of trading cards, has made a significant move by joining forces with Vernell Brown III, affectionately known as “VB3.” This exciting multi-year deal marks an exclusive partnership between the renowned trading card company and the promising high school football standout from Jones High School in Orlando.
VB3 has certainly made a name for himself as a top wide receiver prospect. With impressive stats from the previous season, including 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns, Brown has continued to showcase his skills in 2024 with 51 catches for 664 yards and four touchdowns. His commitment to playing for the University of Florida has only added to the excitement surrounding his future in the sport.
Panini America’s decision to feature Brown in their collegiate product lines highlights his growing reputation as a budding star in the football world. Among a talented roster that includes Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, Dylan Raiola, Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, and Zachariah Branch, Brown is poised to make a significant impact at the collegiate level.
Jason Howarth, Panini America’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, expressed his confidence in Brown’s potential, emphasizing the dynamic player that VB3 is set to become. This partnership is not only a testament to Brown’s talent but also aligns with Panini’s strategic expansion into the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) space.
The recent introduction of Panini College is a clear indication of the company’s commitment to empowering athletes through personalized trading cards. Initially launched at Ohio State, Nebraska, and Texas, this initiative aims to provide athletes from partner universities with a platform to showcase their skills and connect with fans through exclusive collectibles.
In response to the partnership, Brown expressed his elation, describing the collaboration with Panini as a dream come true. He revealed that having his own trading card has been a childhood aspiration, making the reality of this collaboration with Panini even more special and significant for him. As he gears up for his collegiate journey with the University of Florida, the anticipation surrounding VB3’s future accomplishments continues to grow, paralleled by Panini America’s excitement to feature him in their distinguished line of products and marketing campaigns.
The exclusive deal between Vernell Brown III and Panini America signifies not just a milestone in Brown’s burgeoning career but also a strategic move by Panini to elevate young, promising talents in the world of sports collectibles. With a bright future ahead and a growing fan base eager to collect his trading cards, VB3’s collaboration with Panini is set to make waves in the collegiate football scene and beyond.