Texas QB Arch Manning signs NIL deal that will benefit charity

The era of NIL (name, image and likeness) deals has been rightfully seen as a way for college athletes to make money, but the opportunity to make some cash hasn't stopped some rising stars from finding a way to give back to their communities as well.

That's certainly the case with popular Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, of Manning family fame. It's being reported that Manning, going into his freshman season in Austin, has signed his first NIL deal, and with it, he's giving back to charity.

Manning has signed a deal with Panini America, a trading card company. One may be excused for believing that Manning signed a deal with a sandwich brand, but perhaps Manning panini sandwiches will be something of the future.

The NIL is a multiyear agreement. Panini will make trading cards that include Manning's autograph. 

Here's where the charity comes in.

The first released card will be Prizm black, autographed and one-of-a-kind. It will be auctioned off on Panini's website, and all the proceeds will go to St. David's HealthCare and St. David's Foundation in Austin, Texas. The winner of the auction will also get to spend some time with Manning via a meet-and-greet, play some catch with the young quarterback and play a part in the presentation of the check.

"Getting my first Panini trading card is something I couldn't have imagined growing up," Manning said in a statement released to ESPN. "Working with Panini to have my first trading card benefit the larger community is special. Helping children live healthy and fulfilling lives is something that has always been important to my family."

Manning is the nephew of legendary NFL quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning as well as the grandson of legendary college quarterback Archie Manning. He was ranked as the consensus No. 1 overall recruit in the 2023 class but is backing up the quarterback who had that same honor in 2021, Quinn Ewers. 

At the time of this writing, the bidding for the card is already over $60,000.