Top 10 Rookie Cards to Watch for the 2025 NFL Season

Top 10 Rookie Cards to Watch for the 2025 NFL Season

Because fantasy teams are fun, but rookie cards can pay your rent.

If you’re a football fan and card collector, you already know: NFL rookie cards aren’t just cardboard anymore — they’re investments with cleats. And with the 2025 season kicking off, now’s the perfect time to scout your next big pull.

From quarterbacks ready to take over the league to skill players flying under the radar, here are 10 rookie cards you should absolutely keep an eye on this season. Whether you're ripping hobby boxes or scouring eBay at 2 AM (we see you), this list will guide your collecting plays.

1. Drayden Miller (QB - New York Jets)

The #1 overall pick comes with all the pressure — and all the upside. If Miller lives up to even 75% of the hype, his 2025 Prizm Silver RC could be this year’s crown jewel.

2. Khalil Thompson (WR - Chicago Bears)

Fast, flashy, and already building chemistry with Caleb Williams. Watch for low-numbered parallels in Select and Mosaic.

3. Jordan Castillo (RB - Miami Dolphins)

The Fins love speed, and Castillo brings Olympic-level juice. His Donruss Rated Rookie Auto is already seeing upward price movement.

4. Tyler Griggs (QB - Las Vegas Raiders)

Not the sexiest pick, but he's got that gritty “Derek Carr 2.0” vibe. Contenders Rookie Ticket Autos are a sleeper investment here.

5. AJ Iwobi (TE - Baltimore Ravens)

Lamar finally has a go-to tight end again. Think vintage Mark Andrews but faster. Iwobi’s cards are flying under the radar — for now.

6. Noah Reid (CB - New England Patriots)

Yes, we’re putting a defender on the list. Because Reid might be the next Sauce Gardner. If he racks up picks early, his Flawless RCs could spike.

7. Chris Ballentine (WR - Atlanta Falcons)

Big body, red zone threat, and highlights for days. Immaculate patch autos are already being chased.

8. Jermaine Douglas (OL - Detroit Lions)

OK, hear us out. He’s an O-lineman. But he’s a personality, and collectors love that. If Panini gives him a quirky insert, it might take off.

9. Eli Thomas (LB - Seattle Seahawks)

A tackling machine and media darling. Early sales of his Origins autos show strong demand.

10. Isaiah Price (QB - Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

If he gets the starting job mid-season (and we think he will), expect a surge. Obsidian rookie parallels are the play.

Final Whistle

The 2025 rookie class isn’t just hype — it’s deep, dynamic, and full of potential hobby stars. Whether you're buying singles, grading raw pulls, or investing in sealed wax, now’s the time to act before prices pop.

And remember: sometimes it’s not about the player with the biggest name — it’s about the right card at the right time.

Good luck, and may your pulls be centered, numbered, and on-card.

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