Julian Sayin, the standout quarterback recruit from the 2024 class, who recently transferred from Alabama to Ohio State, has inked his inaugural NIL partnership just a week after the move. The high school sensation from Carlsbad High School in Carlsbad, CA, revealed an exclusive, multi-year trading card agreement with Panini America, encompassing autographed trading cards and marketing initiatives. His premier card is set to be featured in Panini’s upcoming collegiate products.
Expressing his excitement, Sayin stated, “You always dream of getting your first trading card, and I’m thrilled and proud to be partnering with Panini for my exclusive autograph trading cards.”
Sayin, who earned the MVP title at the Elite 11 finals, showcased his skills by throwing for 2,369 yards, 24 touchdowns, and only one interception during his senior year.
Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “We are excited to announce our partnership with Julian – he is a special player, and we look forward to following his collegiate career and beyond. We are excited to share his Panini products, especially with Buckeyes fans.”
Joining Panini’s NIL football roster, Sayin joins the ranks of other notable athletes such as Texas quarterbacks Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning, USC wide receiver Zachariah Branch, Nebraska freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola, and former Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and wide receiver Rome Odunze.
Beyond football, Panini has expanded its partnerships to include athletes from various sports, such as Nebraska volleyball star Lexi Rodriguez, 2023 NBA Draft Picks Amen and Ausar Thompson, 2024 NBA prospects Matas Buzelis and Ja’Kobe Walter, and 2025 NBA prospect Tre Johnson.
Sayin is set to join the formidable quarterback lineup at Ohio State, which includes transfers like Will Howard from Kansas State, junior Devin Brown, and standout freshman recruit Air Noland.
