Most Popular NFL Sports Cards Right Now

The world of NFL sports cards has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, driven by a mix of nostalgia, investment potential, and the excitement surrounding new and emerging players. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just getting into the hobby, it’s helpful to know which NFL sports cards are currently the most sought-after. As with any collectible market, trends shift over time, so it’s important to stay updated on the cards that are grabbing the attention of collectors and investors alike.

What Makes NFL Sports Cards Popular?

Before diving into the specific cards, it’s worth understanding what factors make an NFL sports card rise in popularity. Several elements contribute to a card’s value and desirability:

1 - Player Performance: Naturally, cards featuring star players or future Hall of Famers are usually in high demand. Players who perform well during the season, break records, or become fan favourites often see their cards soar in value.

2 - Rarity: Limited-edition or rare cards, such as autographed versions or those with special inserts, can be particularly valuable. A low print run increases a card's rarity and, often, its worth.

3 - Condition: A card’s condition is critical. Cards that are in mint condition, often graded by a professional service like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), tend to be worth more than those with visible wear and tear.

4 - Era: Vintage cards from earlier decades, particularly from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, have become increasingly popular. However, modern cards featuring emerging stars are also attracting significant attention.

Current Top NFL Players and Their Cards

Now that we have an idea of what makes a card popular, let’s look at some of the top players whose cards are in high demand right now.

1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)  
2. Mahomes has established himself as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in NFL history, and his sports cards reflect his stardom. Mahomes’ rookie cards, especially the ones from premium brands like Panini Prizm and National Treasures, are among the most coveted. The value of his cards has skyrocketed since his MVP season and Super Bowl wins, and collectors continue to buy and sell them with great enthusiasm.

1. Tom Brady (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
2. Although Tom Brady is now retired, his cards are still extremely popular and valuable. As the greatest quarterback of all time, Brady’s rookie cards, especially from his early years with the New England Patriots, are seen as investments by collectors. The market for Brady cards is particularly strong in high-end editions, including his autographed cards and limited prints.

1. Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals)
2. Joe Burrow’s rookie season in 2020, followed by a Super Bowl appearance in 2021, quickly turned him into a fan favourite and a must-have in the sports card market. His cards, particularly from 2020 Panini Prizm and Optic sets, have seen considerable price increases as his career progresses. With Burrow showing no signs of slowing down, his cards remain highly sought after.

1. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles)
2. After an impressive 2022 season and a Super Bowl appearance, Jalen Hurts has become one of the hottest young quarterbacks in the league. His rookie cards, including those from 2020 sets, have seen a significant rise in value. As Hurts continues to play at a high level, demand for his cards is expected to remain strong, making him a key player to watch in the NFL sports card market.

1. Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers)
2. Justin Herbert’s impressive performances since entering the league have made his rookie cards some of the most valuable in the market. As one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL today, Herbert’s cards from the 2020 season are among the most highly traded. His autographed and numbered parallels from brands like Panini Prizm and Select are especially popular among collectors.

1. DeAndre Hopkins (Arizona Cardinals)
2. While not a quarterback, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has consistently been one of the most talented and reliable players in the NFL. His cards, particularly from his prime years with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, are in high demand. Collectors often target his autographed memorabilia cards, which combine his signature with pieces of game-worn jerseys or equipment.

1. Rookie Cards of Emerging Stars
2. Beyond established superstars, rookie cards of promising young players can also see a lot of attention. Players like Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers), Ja'Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals), and Micah Parsons (Dallas Cowboys) have entered the NFL with huge expectations. Their rookie cards, especially autographed and parallel versions, are highly coveted as collectors look to get in early on potential future legends.

Where to Buy and Sell NFL Sports Cards

If you’re looking to get into the NFL sports card market, several platforms make buying and selling easy. Online marketplaces like eBay, COMC (Check Out My Cards), and Beckett Marketplace are popular places to purchase cards from other collectors. For those interested in higher-end cards, websites like PWCC Auctions and Goldin Auctions offer platforms for bidding on rare and valuable items.

It’s also worth checking out local card shops or attending card shows in your area. These events provide an opportunity to network with other collectors, find specific cards, and even trade items.

Conclusion

NFL sports cards remain a fascinating part of the collectible market. Whether you're investing in a rising star or adding a vintage card to your collection, the appeal of these cards goes beyond just their value. They represent the excitement, history, and future of the game. As the NFL continues to evolve, so too will the popularity of its sports cards. From established legends like Tom Brady to rising stars like Joe Burrow and Jalen Hurts, the future looks bright for NFL sports card collectors. By staying informed and tracking the players who are making waves, you can ensure that you’re always in the know about the most popular cards on the market.