As part of its agreement with the NFL to be designated as the “Official Trading Card of the 2009 NFL Draft,” representatives of the card company will be on hand at the April 25-26 draft in New York City, have access to photography from the event, as well as officially licensed NFL Draft memorabilia worn by the players.

“Rookie cards are key to the success of our trading card programs,” Mike Anderson, Panini America’s VP of sales and marketing. “The relationship allows us to be the first trading card company to have access to the top picks. The growing popularity of NFL Draft day is incredible exposure for trading cards and our company.”

The agreement will give Panini America the NFL jerseys and hats the players wear after being selected. The items will be incorporated into products released during the upcoming season.

“We felt the memorabilia from this event would be a great way to enhance our programs throughout 2009,” added Anderson. “These jerseys and hats are special, they are the first time the rookies get to wear their new colors – so its going to create some some very unique collectibles.”

Company staffers will also be distributing cards at the draft of the top picks with their new team designations.