Topps does not currently have an NFL license, and there is no confirmed date when it will return

Topps lost the right to produce NFL trading cards in 2021 when its license agreement with the league ended. The company had held that license since 1951. As of now, Topps has not announced a deal to regain it, and the NFL has not publicly committed to bringing Topps back as a card manufacturer. If you are looking for official NFL cards right now, Panini and Fanatics are the only licensed producers.

The situation changed in late 2021 when Fanatics Sportscard signed a multi-year agreement with the NFL to be the exclusive manufacturer of official trading cards starting in 2024. Panini held the license between Topps and Fanatics. This means Topps would have to negotiate a new deal with the NFL to return — something that has not happened yet and may not happen at all.

Key Takeaways

  • Topps lost its NFL card license in 2021 and has not regained it as of now.
  • Fanatics became the exclusive NFL card manufacturer in 2024 under a multi-year deal.
  • Topps would need to sign a new agreement with the NFL to produce cards again, which has not been announced.
  • If you want official NFL cards today, Fanatics is the current licensed producer.

Why Topps Lost the NFL License

Topps held the NFL license for 70 years before losing it. The company's agreement with the league straightforward expired in 2021, and the NFL chose not to renew it with Topps. Instead, the league decided to move forward with Panini, which had already been producing NFL cards under a separate license.

The loss was part of a larger shift in how the NFL manages its trading card business. The league wanted to consolidate its card operations and eventually move to a single manufacturer. That consolidation led to Fanatics taking over as the exclusive producer in 2024. Topps was not part of that plan.

Fanatics as the Current NFL Card Manufacturer

Fanatics signed an exclusive deal with the NFL that runs through at least 2026, meaning no other company can legally produce official NFL trading cards during that time. Fanatics is the only licensed manufacturer right now. The company produces cards under its own brand and also under the Panini brand name for some products.

Fanatics has invested heavily in NFL card production and has released multiple product lines since taking over. The company controls the entire market for official NFL cards for the duration of its contract. This exclusivity makes it unlikely that Topps will return during the Fanatics deal, which would require the NFL to break or modify its agreement with Fanatics.

What Would Need to Happen for Topps to Return

For Topps to produce NFL cards again, one of two things would have to occur. Either the Fanatics contract would need to end or be modified to allow multiple manufacturers, or Topps would need to reach a separate licensing agreement with the NFL outside of the Fanatics deal. Neither scenario has been announced or appears to be in the works.

Topps has not made any public statements about pursuing an NFL license. The company has focused on other sports licenses, including MLB (Major League Baseball), which it regained in 2021. Without a clear signal from either Topps or the NFL that negotiations are happening, there is no reason to expect Topps cards to return soon.

Topps' Current Card Licenses

Topps currently holds licenses for Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and some international soccer properties. The company produces cards for these sports but not for the NFL, NBA, or NHL. Topps' return to MLB in 2021 was a major move for the company, but it has not translated into a return to football cards.

The sports card market is divided among several manufacturers, each with exclusive deals for specific leagues. Topps' absence from the NFL reflects the NFL's choice to work with other companies. Unless the league's strategy changes or its current contracts expire, Topps is unlikely to re-enter the NFL card market.

Where to Buy Official NFL Cards Now

If you want to buy official NFL trading cards, you will find them from Fanatics. Fanatics sells cards directly through its website and also through retail partners like Target, Walmart, and specialty card shops. The cards are labeled as official NFL products and carry the league's branding.

Fanatics produces a range of products, from basic packs to premium sets. Prices vary depending on the product type and rarity. Since Fanatics is the only licensed manufacturer, any official NFL card you buy will come from Fanatics or a retailer selling Fanatics products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Topps ever get the NFL license back?

There is no announced plan for Topps to return as an NFL card manufacturer. Fanatics holds an exclusive deal through at least 2026. Topps would need to negotiate a new agreement with the NFL, which has not been reported. It is possible but not currently expected.

When did Fanatics take over NFL cards?

Fanatics became the exclusive manufacturer of official NFL trading cards in 2024. The company signed a multi-year deal with the league. Panini, which held the license before Fanatics, is no longer producing new NFL cards.

Can I still buy old Topps NFL cards?

Yes. Topps NFL cards from 1951 through 2021 are still available on the secondary market through card dealers, online marketplaces, and auction sites. These are no longer in production but remain legal to buy and sell as collectibles.

Is there any other company making NFL cards besides Fanatics?

No. Fanatics holds the exclusive license, which means no other company can legally produce official NFL trading cards. Any NFL cards you see in stores or online are from Fanatics or retailers selling Fanatics products.