NFL Rookie Quarterbacks: Investment Insights for 2024

As sports card collectors, rookies are always at the forefront of our minds. Rookie cards often carry the highest potential for profit, depending on how the athlete performs throughout their career. In this post, we’ll explore some of the standout NFL rookie quarterbacks from this year’s draft class and assess their potential as investment opportunities. The players I’ll highlight are Bo Nix, Jayden Daniels, Michael Penix, Caleb Williams, J.J. McCarthy, and Drake Maye. Let’s dive in!

Jayden Daniels

Let’s begin with arguably the best quarterback from this draft: Jayden Daniels. The Washington Commanders were a laughingstock last year, with many fans doubting their direction. However, they made a statement during the offseason by hiring Dan Quinn, a two-time Super Bowl-winning Defensive Coordinator with the Seattle Seahawks and a key architect of the legendary "Legion of Boom." Quinn’s leadership immediately brought credibility to the team.

With the second pick in the draft, the Commanders selected Daniels, their franchise quarterback. Critics expected another mediocre season, but Daniels and Quinn flipped the script. At the time of writing, the Commanders sit at an impressive 8-5 record, holding second place in the NFC East behind the powerhouse Philadelphia Eagles and clinging to the final Wild Card spot. Daniels is averaging over 200 yards and one touchdown per game, exceeding all expectations and positioning the Commanders as legitimate playoff contenders.

As for investing in Daniels’ rookie cards, I’m optimistic. He has showcased why he was the best quarterback in this draft class and has the potential to maintain his success. However, I anticipate a similar trajectory to C.J. Stroud. Stroud’s rookie year was phenomenal, but his stock dipped in his second season. If you can find Daniels’ rookie cards at a good price now, they’re worth picking up. That said, I’d wait until next year before going all-in, as his prices might drop slightly in the short term.

Drake Maye

Next, let’s discuss Drake Maye, drafted third overall by the New England Patriots. Much like the Commanders, the Patriots started fresh this season with a new head coach, former player Jerod Mayo. Maye has the daunting task of filling the void left by Tom Brady, and while this season has been shaky, he has shown flashes of potential.

The Patriots currently sit last in the AFC East with a 3-10 record, but Maye is averaging over 200 yards and one touchdown per game. Unfortunately, the Patriots lack the supporting pieces to elevate Maye’s game. While rebuilding is a necessary phase, it’s clear that significant changes are needed. I believe Mayo will be the "sacrificial lamb" in this process. Although he is helping to develop young talent, I don’t see him leading the Patriots to postseason success.

When it comes to Maye’s rookie cards, I see this as a buy-low opportunity. He might not be a standout player until the Patriots overhaul their system, but his long-term potential makes him a worthwhile investment. Look for his cards to appreciate significantly in 3-5 years.

Bo Nix

Bo Nix is an exciting prospect who has taken the league by storm. Playing for the Denver Broncos, Nix has quickly become a star under the guidance of head coach Sean Payton. Last year, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson struggled to adapt to Payton’s system. This season, Payton has found his "new puppy" in Nix, molding him into a player who fits his style perfectly.

Nix is averaging over 200 yards and one touchdown per game, and he came close to defeating the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs earlier this season. The Broncos are currently third in a stacked division and holding onto a Wild Card spot. With another matchup against the Chiefs on the horizon, I believe Nix and the Broncos have a strong chance to secure a statement win.

Nix’s rookie cards are a hot commodity. His talent, combined with Payton’s mentorship, makes him a future star. If you can get your hands on his rookie cards now, I’d highly recommend it.

J.J. McCarthy & Michael Penix

Moving on to J.J. McCarthy and Michael Penix, these two rookies have yet to make a significant impact in the league, but there’s promise.

McCarthy suffered a season-ending injury early in the year, and with the Minnesota Vikings thriving under Sam Darnold, it’s unlikely he’ll start next season. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. NFL teams often rush young quarterbacks, but McCarthy’s extended development period could pay dividends. I expect him to take over as the Vikings’ starter in two years, making his cards a solid long-term investment.

Penix, on the other hand, is following the Green Bay Packers’ approach by sitting behind a veteran starter. The Atlanta Falcons signed Kirk Cousins to bridge the gap, allowing Penix time to develop. While Cousins is a seasoned quarterback, he doesn’t possess the leadership or clutch factor Penix needs to emulate. Penix has potential based on his college performance, but I’m reserving judgment until we see him in action. For now, his cards are a hold.

Caleb Williams

Finally, let’s talk about the first overall pick, Caleb Williams. Drafted by the Chicago Bears, Williams started the season strong but has struggled mightily in the second half. Despite being touted as the most NFL-ready quarterback, with weapons like Rome Odunze, Keenan Allen, and D.J. Moore at his disposal, Williams has fallen short of expectations.

His attitude entering the draft was confident—perhaps too confident—and his play hasn’t matched the hype. While he has shown glimpses of potential, I don’t see him as a true game-changer. My advice? Avoid investing in Williams’ rookie cards for now. Unless he makes significant changes to his game and attitude, I don’t see him living up to his draft position.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the top rookie quarterbacks from this draft are Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix. I believe Daniels will win Rookie of the Year, but Nix will be motivated to prove he should have been the pick. Both players have bright futures and the potential to command high-value rookie cards.

As always, these are just my opinions, and I encourage you to do your own research before investing. Happy collecting, and stay clutch!

Photo Sourced from ESPN