Panini America has landed a memorabilia and autograph deal with Johnny Manziel.
The company announced Monday that the former Heisman Trophy winner has already signed items for Panini Authentic, the company’s memorabilia division and also autograph football cards for the company’s upcoming releases. The first signed Manziel card to appear in a licensed NFL product will be Panini’s Score Football set, due out in late May.
Manziel, the former Texas A&M quarterback, is expected to be a first round pick in next month’s NFL Draft. He’ll be featured on the company’s football card packaging and participate “in other marketing initiatives” according to a company news release.
Manziel signed jerseys, helmets, footballs and photos are already being sold online.
“I’m honored that Panini America wanted me to be a part of their great team,” said Manziel in a news release. “I remain focused and committed to doing everything I can – on the field and off — to be the best quarterback I can be.”
Panini also hold exclusive autograph deals with Kobe Bryant,Blake Griffin, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, Andrew Luck and E.J. Manuel.
Manziel already appears on packaging and has autographs inside non-NFL licensed products focused on 2014 draftees. So far, they’ve been selling well. See them here.
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