Tyree Gets Autograph Deal

Content originally published by sportscollectorsdaily.com on 11 February 2008

With Super Bowl XLII now over a week in the rearview mirror, pundits were still looking for a catchy name to hang on the Eli Manning to David Tyree pass on the winning drive.

It might be hard to choose between the two efforts made on the play; Manning's "Great Escape" and the "that's using your head" grab made by the little known receiver.

Manning already makes a nice chunk of change for his private autograph sessions, but Tyree is now cashing in too. CNBC sports business reporter Darren Rovell revealed in his blog late last week that Tyree had signed a one-year deal for an undisclosed figure with BC Sports, a chain of sports stores located on the east coast. Tyree will visit stores for autograph signings before the end of the month.

Steiner Sports was also said to be in the running for Tyree's autograph concession, but BC Sports had already gotten a foot in the door by booking him for a signing before the Super Bowl.

During the regular season and playoffs, such a catch might merit a 'play of the day' on the network sports programs, but in the Super Bowl it becomes a commodity as fans clamor for a tangible memory.

"People love the big moments," CEO Pat Waters told Rovell. "We sold about 7,000 autographed photos of Adam Vinatieri's kick in the snow bowl (2002 AFC Championship), which is a tremendous amount for a kicker."