Spotlight on Football Cards: 5 Must-Have Stars for Your Collection

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just entering into the hobby, football cards offer a thrilling way to connect with the game and its biggest stars. From legendary veterans to rising rookies, the right card can capture a moment, a legacy, or even a future Hall of Fame career. Today, we’re highlighting five standout football cards that deserve a spot in any collection—each representing a different chapter in the NFL story.

Patrick Mahomes Football Card: The MVP Magnet

Patrick Mahomes' football cards are the gold standard for modern collectors. With multiple MVPs, Super Bowl rings, and jaw-dropping highlights every season, Mahomes is redefining quarterback greatness. His rookie cards, especially from 2017 Panini Prizm and National Treasures, have skyrocketed in value. Even parallel cards and inserts from recent sets remain popular, thanks to his consistent dominance and fan-favorite status.

Tom Brady Football Card: The GOAT’s Legacy

No football card collection is complete without a Tom Brady football card. From his iconic 2000 Bowman Chrome rookie to limited autographs and refractors, Brady’s cards are a tribute to two decades of excellence. Whether you're chasing high-end graded gems or affordable tributes, Brady’s legacy ensures his cards will always hold collector appeal. For new fans, even inserts from his final seasons with Tampa Bay offer a piece of history.

Justin Herbert Football Cards: The Electric Upside

Justin Herbert football cards have surged in popularity since his breakout rookie season. Known for his cannon arm and calm demeanor, Herbert is a fan favorite with serious upside. His 2020 Panini Prizm, Select, and Optic rookies are especially sought after, and collectors love his color parallels and autographs.  As the Chargers build around him, Herbert’s cards remain an investment option for those looking to Justin Herbert for long-term success.

Drake Maye Football Card: The Rookie Wildcard

Drake Maye football cards are generating buzz as he enters the NFL with sky-high expectations. A standout at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Maye’s arm talent and mobility make him one of the most intriguing prospects in recent memory. Early releases like Panini Prizm, Select, and Donruss Optic sets will be key targets for collectors looking to prospect. If he lives up to the expectation, his rookie cards could become cornerstone pieces.

Josh Allen Football Card: The Dual-Threat Dynamo

Josh Allen football cards blend power, grit, and highlight-reel plays. From hurdling defenders to launching 70-yard bombs, Allen’s style is tailor-made for hobby excitement. His 2018 Panini Contenders and Donruss Optic rookies are fan favorites, and his autographs continue to climb in value. With Buffalo in perennial playoff contention, Allen’s cards are both fun and financially promising.

Whether you're collecting for passion, investment, or both, these football cards offer a dynamic mix of star power, potential, and hobby excitement. Stay tuned for new releases—because in the world of football cards, every pack holds possibilities.

At RL Sports Cards, we offer both individually graded football cards and sealed boxes for your collection.  And if you want to talk more about this topic or other hobby-related topics, please come into our store—we welcome everyone to share their hobby journey.  

In the meantime, feel free to shop for our collection of Football Boxes and Football Singles.  We offer in-store pickup and shipping for all online orders.  We hope to see you soon!