Panini America has officially sealed a multi-year, exclusive partnership with Vernell Brown III, the highly acclaimed high school football wide receiver hailing from Jones High School in Orlando. Fondly referred to as “VB3,” the four-star recruit has inked a deal that encompasses autographed trading cards and memorabilia, shining a spotlight on his exceptional talent within Panini’s collegiate product lines.
Renowned for his remarkable skills, “VB3” has swiftly risen to become one of the most promising wide receiver prospects across the nation. In a stellar display of prowess last season, he dazzled audiences with an impressive record of 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns. The momentum has only continued in 2024, with Brown showcasing his prowess through 51 catches for 664 yards and four touchdowns. Having recently committed to the University of Florida, he is poised to take the college football scene by storm, featuring prominently in Panini’s lineup of products and promotional activities.
Among a stellar ensemble of budding talents such as Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, Dylan Raiola, Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, and Zachariah Branch, Brown stands out as a player expected to leave an indelible mark at the collegiate level. Jason Howarth, Panini America’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, expressed unwavering confidence in Brown’s potential, emphasizing, “VB3 is on track to be a dynamic player, and we’re excited to feature him in our collegiate collections and campaigns.”
This collaboration with Vernell Brown III is a strategic move that dovetails with Panini’s broader foray into the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) domain. The recent introduction of Panini College has opened up avenues for athletes from partnered universities to have their own trading cards. Initially launching at esteemed institutions like Ohio State, Nebraska, and Texas, this initiative is slated for further expansion, providing more athletes with the opportunity to leave their mark on the trading card landscape.
Reflecting on this pivotal partnership, Brown conveyed his elation, articulating, “Partnering with Panini is a dream come true. Growing up, I always imagined having my own trading card, and now that it’s a reality, it feels incredibly special.” With this groundbreaking collaboration, Vernell Brown III embarks on a new chapter, poised to captivate fans and collectors alike with his electrifying talent and unwavering dedication to the game.
