Rising Stars, Rising Prices: Tracking Young NFL QBs and Their Rookie Card Values

The Future of the Game — and the Hobby

In today’s NFL, young quarterbacks aren’t just the faces of franchises — they’re the focal point of the sports card market. As collectors and investors look for the next breakout star, rookie card prices often mirror both on-field performance and off-field hype. But how closely do card values actually track with stats, success, and upside? Whether you're a hobbyist, a fantasy football fanatic, or just love analyzing the game, this data offers a fresh perspective on how performance and potential are valued in today’s card-collecting landscape.

Click the image below to view the Young QB Card Rating Dataspace!

Performance vs Hype: The Rookie Card Market 

The rookie card market doesn’t just reflect current performance — it’s fueled by hype, potential, and narrative. You might notice players like Caleb Williams or Jayden Daniels commanding high card prices after one season. These prices have actually come down since the end of the season. While he’s not listed, someone like JJ McCarthy is sitting at a $60 price tag despite never taking a regular season snap yet. That’s the power of draft capital and expectation in a speculative market.

Draft Capital Drives Demand 

Compare CJ Stroud and Bryce Young — one has a historic rookie season under his belt, the other has yet to put it all together. Yet Young still holds value thanks to his pedigree and potential for a breakout. First-round QBs always have built-in interest, even in down years.

Young Unknowns

Rookie card values for players like Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr are fluctuating as training camp begins. With questions about long-term viability and team success, their card prices reflect both optimism and caution. 

How Much Does Proven Production Matter?

Trevor Lawrence was once the hobby's golden boy — now his card prices have plateaued. Despite solid NFL numbers, investors may be waiting for that "elite tier" leap before values climb again. In contrast, CJ Stroud’s breakout season immediately translated to card value growth, and we saw how they reacted to his sophomore slump as well. 

A Glowing Value 

Brock Purdy was not thought of as an NFL QB prior to leading the 49ers to the NFC Championship game in 2022. Now, his card prices sit in the mid-tier on this list despite the second-highest QB Score metric. With a soft-schedule looming, we could see a huge statistical season from Purdy and the 49ers offense. 

Short-Term Buzz vs Long-Term Legacies 

The rookie card market loves momentum. A strong preseason game or training camp clip can cause spikes. But long-term value? Where does that truly come from? winning games, making playoff runs, and ultimately, building legacies? Which players are best equipped to take that Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen-like leap on the field?

Written by Ben Hossler (Follow @BenHossler)