Panini America Signs Exclusive Deal with Detroit Lions Star Aidan Hutchinson

• Posted: October 14, 2024, 11:52 am
• in Sports Card News
• by bionic

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Panini America, a global leader in sports and entertainment collectibles and the exclusive trading card partner of the NFL and NFLPA, has secured an exclusive autograph trading card deal with Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. This multi-year agreement marks the first time Panini has signed an exclusive deal with a defensive player, highlighting Hutchinson's growing prominence in the NFL.

As part of the deal, Hutchinson will be featured across Panini’s entire line of NFL and collegiate trading cards, including on the Panini Instant Card platform, which showcases top players and performances after each week’s NFL games. The agreement also includes autographed trading cards, special packaging highlights, and integrated marketing campaigns. Additionally, Panini will collaborate with Hutchinson to support his charitable efforts, blending the star’s on-field success with his off-field impact.

Hutchinson, who was the second overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft after a stellar college career at the University of Michigan, has quickly become one of the league’s most feared pass-rushers. He was named to the All-Rookie team in his first year after recording 11.5 sacks and earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He helped lead the Detroit Lions to their first NFC Championship game in over 30 years and continues to excel in his role as a team captain for the 2024 season. Recently, Hutchinson earned the title of NFC Defensive Player of the Month for September, leading the league with 6.5 sacks through just four games.

Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations at Panini America, expressed the company’s excitement about the partnership. “Aidan is one of the most dynamic players in the NFL today. His energy and impact on the field resonate with fans across the league,” Howarth said. “We’ve had the pleasure of working with him since he entered the NFL, and this exclusive deal feels like a natural fit. His cards are sure to be highly sought after by collectors.”

Hutchinson, too, shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration. "Working with Panini has been a great experience since I joined the NFL. As a kid, I always dreamed of having my own trading card, and it’s amazing to see that dream come true," said Hutchinson. “Panini’s creative designs, especially their popular Kaboom series, really stand out. I’m excited that fans will have the chance to collect my autograph cards as part of Panini’s incredible product lineup.”

This exclusive partnership positions Hutchinson among the elite athletes in Panini’s portfolio and underscores his status as one of the NFL’s brightest young stars. Fans and collectors alike can expect to see more from the Lions standout as his presence grows in both the sports world and the trading card community. With Panini's creative card designs and Hutchinson's rising NFL career, the partnership promises to deliver exciting collectibles for years to come.