These highly-rated rookies could make immediate impact in NFL, sports card hobby
However the football card market shakes out between Topps and Panini this year, one thing is certain—a handful of rookies should make a big impact on their teams and in the hobby, leaving collectors clamoring for whatever rookie cards they can find of these potential stars.
Here's a look five rookies to collect this season:
CAM WARD
The 2024 Davey O'Brien Award winner has already proven to be a grinder, a leader and a quarterback who is doing everything within his power to become great. He's earned the respect of the Titans and many fans and collectors with his mature comments and outlook on life and the game.
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On the field, he's shown poise in the pocket, good decision-making and true field-general abilities early in the season. In his first two starts, Ward completed 50 percent of his passes for 287 yards and one touchdown.
He’s shown signs of being a future franchise quarterback and is the rookie collectors should be chasing this season.
TRAVIS HUNTER
Many are calling the dual-threat baller the Shohei Ohtani of football. That may be a bit of a stretch, as Ohtani has performed at an incredibly high level as both a hitter and pitcher over the last decade.
Just the fact that Hunter, who plays on offense and defense for the Jacksonville Jaguars, is even in the conversation is impressive. In his first two games, Hunter caught nine passes for 55 yards, while also playing defensive back.
Whether 2024 Heisman Trophy winner can perform on both sides of the ball at the highest level remains to be seen, but one thing is sure—Hunter has the attention of collectors.
ASHTON JEANTY
A refreshing throwback, the workhorse running back took the college football world by storm over the past few seasons, putting up video game numbers nearly every week. After some eye-popping preseason runs, Jeanty's potential is off the page. Look no further than where he was ranked on preseason fantasy football lists (average ADP 12).
Jeanty got off to a slow start for the Raiders, rushing for 81 yards and a touchdown in his first two games.
If he can stay healthy, Jeanty will be the center of attention for fantasy team owners and card collectors.
JAXSON DART
We all know how much collectors love rookie quarterbacks. Aside from the aforementioned Ward, Dart would be number two on the prospectus.
Not only is Dart a rookie QB, but he’s playing in the media capital of the world with the New York Giants. He's already had a handful of viral social media moments, from his play on the field to hanging out with veteran QB Jameis Winston.
If he gets a chance to play behind Winston and veteran starter Russell Wilson, he could be a future star and key player in 2025.
TYLER WARREN
An offensive Swiss Army Knife in college, the big tight end should get plenty of targets in Indy. Warren has a huge Penn State following and looks like a nice security blanket for Daniel Jones, Anthony Richardson or whoever in the name of Lucas Oil Stadium is throwing passes there.
With Jones under center, Warren has gotten off to a strong start, catching 11 passes for 155 yards.
If it doesn't work out for Jones, the Colts could just line up Warren to take snaps and run the offense himself. Collectors seem to gravitate toward one rookie tight end each season. Warren is the guy this year.