Drew Brees
Super Bowl XLIV MVP and Future Hall of Fame Quarterback · Football - NFL
New Orleans Saints
Era
Circa 2010 - Super Bowl XLIV Era
Item Type
Super Bowl XLIV Commemorative Youth Football
Condition
Good to Fair. The autograph shows some mild fading/rubbing. The football has dirt marks and scuffs on the white panel. The original box frame is heavily damaged with tears and crushed corners.
Rarity
Common. Brees is a prolific signer, and these specific Super Bowl XLIV souvenir balls were signed in high volume following the Saints' victory.
Overall Assessment
A solid, likely authentic piece of New Orleans Saints history. While the condition of the box is poor, the signature remains clear enough for a mid-tier display piece. Ideal for a Saints fan or a budget-conscious NFL collector.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic; confidence level: 85%. The signature exhibits the characteristic fluid 'D' and 'B' loops typical of Brees during his prime years, particularly when signing quickly on souvenir items.
Signature Style
Stylized shorthand monogram. A large, sweeping 'D' that transitions into a jagged 'B' and 's' flourish. Common for mass-signed or fan-interaction items.
Signature Characteristics
The signature shows high-velocity flow with no hesitation. The 'D' starts at the bottom, loops high, and the 'B' follows as a series of zig-zag strokes that taper off to the right.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip permanent marker (Sharpie) on a white synthetic/composite leather surface.
Item Description
A white youth-sized football featuring the official Super Bowl XLIV logo with the 'South Florida 02.07.10' game date. This is a retail-grade souvenir ball produced for the 2010 championship game.
Estimated Value
$100 - $175 USD (Unauthenticated). With professional certification, value could rise to $250 - $300 USD.
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches standard Brees 'rush' signatures from the 2010-2012 era. It is less formal than his 'Full Name' jersey inscriptions but consistent with his souvenir-ball style.
Authentication Tips
Look for the sharp, angular 'V' shape in the middle (the peak of the 'B') and a smooth, continuous flow. High-speed signing should not have 'stop' marks or bleeding at the corners.
Certification Recommendation
Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), JSA, or PSA/DNA. Beckett is highly regarded for modern NFL players.
Red Flags
Slight ink skips are visible, which is common on synthetic surfaces but reduces aesthetic appeal. No signs of autopen or slow-trace forgery observed.
Provenance Notes
Since this is on a Super Bowl XLIV ball, documenting if it was signed at a post-game victory event or a training camp session would enhance value.
Historical Context
Signed to commemorate Drew Brees leading the Saints to their first championship, famously raising the Lombardi Trophy in Miami after defeating Peyton Manning's Colts.
Market Trends
Stable. Brees remains an icon in New Orleans and among QB collectors; values for his Super Bowl-related items remain consistent.
Investment Potential
Moderate. As a first-ballot Hall of Famer, his items will always hold value, but souvenir-grade youth balls have a lower ceiling than official 'The Duke' game balls.
Similar Autographs
Sean Payton (HC), Marques Colston, or Reggie Bush; these are often found as teammates to this piece in a Saints collection.
Display & Preservation
Remove from the damaged box and place in a UV-protected acrylic football display case. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent further ink fading on the white surface.
Interesting Facts
Brees was known for staying late after practices to sign for kids; he has one of the most recognizable 'shorthand' signatures in modern sports.