Tom Brady Explains His Aggressive Push Into Trading Cards

Former NFL quarterback Tom Brady, renowned for his impressive 23-year career, has recently ventured into the world of trading card business with his company, CardVault by Tom Brady. After retiring, Brady signed a lucrative ten-year deal with Fox as their lead game analyst and became an owner in several sports franchises across two nations. Beyond his sports career, Brady has accumulated a vast endorsement portfolio, endorsing brands such as Pizza Hut, Dunkin’ Donuts, and T-Mobile, among others.

Brady's passion for trading cards dates back to his childhood, where he spent hours immersed in the hobby at a local hobby shop in San Mateo. It was this childhood love for trading cards that inspired him to co-found CardVault in 2024, which has since expanded rapidly, adding 14 stores in a short period. The company aims to be the first national retailer dedicated exclusively to sports cards, trading cards, and collectibles.

Brady's involvement in CardVault goes beyond financial investment; he frequently attends industry events and auctions, demonstrating his genuine enthusiasm for the hobby. He even expressed his admiration for Hall of Fame baseball player Don Mattingly, stating that he was "just like a kid" when he saw Mattingly's cards. This connection to the hobby goes back to his youth, with CardVault's first store opening in Gillette Stadium in 2021.

CardVault's success can be attributed to Brady's capital and extensive network, which has allowed it to capitalize on the current boom in sports card sales. The trading card industry experienced significant growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a market size reaching $50 billion in 2022, up from $10–$14 billion before the pandemic. With plans to expand further, CardVault is set to become a prominent player in the trading card industry.