The NFL is filled with superstar players that collectors love to chase in the card market. Rookie cards specifically have always been highly coveted among fans and investors. When it comes to the AFC, there are many amazing talents that have made a name for themselves right out the gate.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the top 5 best AFC rookie cards that are must-have collectibles for any hobbyist. Whether you're a fan of these players or teams, or simply want to invest in cards that should rise in value over time, these are some of the key options worth pursuing.

1. Patrick Mahomes II 2018 Prizm - Kansas City Chiefs

You simply can't start a conversation about modern AFC standouts without mentioning Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City Chiefs QB has taken the league by storm since entering as a first-round pick in 2017.

Mahomes wasted no time putting his dangerous arm talent and playmaking ability on full display. He threw for over 5,000 yards and 50 TDs in 2018, earning NFL MVP honors in just his second pro season.

The 2018 Panini Prizm football rookie card of Mahomes is a must-own for AFC collectors. It captures the potential he flashed early on and has skyrocketed in demand along with his on-field success.

Raw copies of the standard Prizm rookie can easily sell for $1,000 or more. High-grade graded versions exceed $10,000 in value. Mahomes Prizm silvers, greens, and other parallels also routinely fetch four-figures based on condition rarity.

Investing in Patrick Mahomes' early cards is advised while he's still in his prime. Owning his 2018 Prizm rookie should pay off for years to come.

2. Joe Burrow 2020 Prizm - Cincinnati Bengals

It didn't take long for LSU standout Joe Burrow to take the NFL by storm either. After being selected #1 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020, he immediately stepped in as the franchise QB.

Burrow lived up to the hype right away, setting rookie passing records while leading the Bengals to an AFC title. He displayed great leadership and poise beyond his years.

That instant success and star potential make Burrow's 2020 Panini Prizm NFL rookie a no-brainer pickup. It's his most iconic card from that huge debut season.

Like Mahomes, Burrow's standard Prizm base rookie can easily trade for $1,000+ in PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ condition. Lower grades still hold solid value as well.

There's also the chance to find rare parallels like Prizm rubies and gold vinyl 1/1s worth a small fortune. Burrow's cards should maintain interest as he anchors Cincinnati's offense moving forward.

3. Josh Allen 2018 Contenders Optic - Buffalo Bills

Let's shift to the defensive side of the ball for our next AFC rookie gem. Josh Allen has transformed into a truly elite QB for the Buffalo Bills after entering the league in 2018 as a promising project.

The former Wyoming signal caller quickly harnessed his size, athleticism, and cannon arm into star ability once he reached the NFL. Allen’s rapid development as both a passer and runner has turned him into an MVP candidate and the face of the Bills franchise.

His 2018 Panini Contenders Optic football rookie card is a big hit in the hobby. The great action photo captures the athleticism that makes Allen special.

Raw copies can trade for $500+, while graded versions push into four-figures when graded as PSA 10s or BGS 9.5s. It's his best rookie from 2018 products and offers plenty of upside.

4. Najee Harris 2021 Panini National Treasures - Pittsburgh Steelers

We’ve covered some nice QB options so far, but let’s highlight a running back rookie card from the AFC too. Najee Harris has energized the Pittsburgh Steelers' ground game since entering the league in 2021.

The dominant rusher out of Alabama provided an immediate spark as a first-round draft pick for Pittsburgh. Harris eclipsed 1,200 rushing yards with 70+ receptions in his debut, proving the complete package at RB.

His 2021 Panini National Treasures Shield 1/1 rookie patch auto is the Najee Harris card for AFC collectors to pursue. Only one copy exists of this booklet card featuring an on-card auto and patch from Harris’s rookie jersey.

This 1/1 recently sold for over $10,000, but could keep rising as Harris cements himself as a perennial All-Pro running back. It will maintain tremendous value as his only true 1/1 rookie card.

5. Mac Jones 2021 Prizm - New England Patriots

Rounding out this list, we head to New England to highlight top 2021 AFC rookie QB Mac Jones. The Patriots' first-round draft pick stepped in to deliver an impressive debut campaign.

Jones displayed outstanding accuracy and decision-making well beyond his years. He helped New England bounce back into playoff contention after Tom Brady's departure.

The 2021 Panini Prizm football rookie card of Mac Jones is the top option that collectors are after. Prices for raw PSA 10s already approach $500. Popular parallels like Prizm Silvers and Green Pulsars are trading for $1,000+ graded.

Investing in Mac Jones rookies right now is advised. All signs point toward him stabilizing the Patriots' offense for the long run. His Prizm rookie should only gain more demand.

Final Thoughts

That does it for our ranking of the top 5 best AFC rookie cards to collect right now. Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, Najee Harris, and Mac Jones represent some of the brightest young talents the conference has to offer.

Investing in their key rookie cards while values are still rising is recommended. Not only are these great players to root for, but their early cards should continue gaining value as their careers advance.

Whether you like these players, teams, or simply want to make wise hobby investments - target their top rookie card options. Football card collecting is a fun hobby made even better when you can land the key rookies of the NFL's next generation of superstars.