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Panini America, the world’s largest sports and entertainment collectibles company and the exclusive trading card partner of the NFL and NFL Players Association (NFLPA), has announced a groundbreaking exclusive autograph trading card deal with Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. This marks the first time Panini has signed an exclusive agreement with a defensive player, underscoring Hutchinson’s rising profile in the NFL.

The multi-year agreement includes autographed trading cards, packaging highlights, and marketing elements, showcasing Hutchinson as a prominent figure in Panini’s NFL and collegiate card lines. Additionally, Panini will collaborate with Hutchinson to support some of his charitable initiatives, aligning the athlete’s growing influence both on and off the field with Panini’s brand.

Hutchinson, a Michigan native, was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft after a standout collegiate career at the University of Michigan, where he earned All-American honors. He quickly made his mark in the NFL, emerging as one of the league’s top pass-rushers. In his rookie season, Hutchinson collected 11.5 sacks and was named to the All-Rookie team, earning his first Pro Bowl appearance. He played a crucial role in helping the Lions reach their first NFC Championship game in over 30 years.

As of the 2024 NFL season, Hutchinson has already garnered attention as a defensive force, leading the league in sacks and being named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for September. His leadership skills are also being recognized, as he was chosen as one of the Lions’ captains for the season.

Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations for Panini America, emphasized Hutchinson’s natural fit for an exclusive partnership. "Aidan is one of the NFL’s most electric players on the field. His energy and the way he plays resonates with all fans," said Howarth. "We’ve watched him evolve since entering the league, and we knew he was a perfect fit for this exclusive deal. We expect that his cards will be in high demand."

Hutchinson, who grew up dreaming of having his own trading card, expressed his excitement about the partnership. "Since coming into the league, Panini has been a great partner of mine. As a kid, you always dream of having your own trading card, and now to see it come to life is incredible," Hutchinson said. "Panini’s designs, especially their Kaboom line, are some of the most creative in the market, and I’m thrilled that my fans will be able to collect my autograph trading cards."

Hutchinson will feature across Panini’s full range of NFL and collegiate cards, including the Panini Instant Card platform, which highlights standout players and performances on a weekly basis throughout the NFL season. This partnership further cements Hutchinson’s status as one of the NFL’s most exciting young talents and offers collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of memorabilia from a player who is poised to shape the future of the league.

As Panini continues to expand its roster of elite athletes, its partnership with Aidan Hutchinson represents a significant step in broadening the appeal of defensive stars within the trading card industry.