Top 5 NFC East Rookie Cards to Collect

November 10, 2023
5
min read

The NFC East is one of the most popular divisions in the NFL. It contains historic franchises like the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders. Fans of these teams are always looking to collect rookie cards of their newest stars.

In this article, we'll countdown the top 5 NFC East rookie cards that collectors should target. These are players poised to become the next big stars in the division. Let's dive in!

#5 - DeVonta Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles surprised many when they selected DeVonta Smith 10th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. While Smith was the Heisman Trophy winner, some worried about his slim build at the NFL level.

However, Smith quickly proved the doubters wrong. He led all rookies with 916 receiving yards in 2021 despite missing time due to injury. Smith established himself as one of the top young receivers in the NFL.

Smith's 2021 Panini Prizm Silver rookie card can be had for around $15-$20. That's a solid value for a potential WR1. If Jalen Hurts takes a step forward at QB, Smith's production could explode in 2022.

Eagles fans will want to scoop up Smith's rookie cards before that happens. His potential alone makes Smith's rookies worth owning.

#4 - Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys struck gold with Micah Parsons in the 2021 NFL Draft. Selected 12th overall, Parsons was an instant difference-maker for Dallas' defense. He finished second in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting after totaling 13 sacks.

Parsons is already one of the most feared defensive players in the NFL. His speed and versatility allows him to rush the passer and drop into coverage. The Cowboys have a new star defender to build around.

As you'd expect, Parsons' rookie card values reflect his monster debut season. His 2021 Panini Prizm Silver card has a Beckett Value of $350 and could go higher. If you can find one for under $300, pounce on that opportunity.

Micah Parsons rookie cards will only increase as he cements himself as one of the NFL's top linebackers. He's a cornerstone player for America's Team.

#3 - Terry McLaurin, WR, Washington Commanders

Terry McLaurin has beaten the odds since entering the NFL in 2019. The Commanders wide receiver has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons despite shaky QB play. He's emerged as Washington's unquestioned WR1.

Now, McLaurin has a chance to take the next step with an improved offense around him. The addition of QB Carson Wentz and rookie WR Jahan Dotson gives him the best supporting cast of his career.

McLaurin's rookie cards are criminally undervalued right now. His 2019 Panini Prizm Silver card can be bought for around $50. If Wentz helps McLaurin improve his TD production, that price is going to skyrocket.

Don't wait to add this ascending wideout to your collection. McLaurin has WR1 potential in the NFC East for years to come. He's one of the best value buys out there.

#2 - Dallas Goedert, TE, Philadelphia Eagles

When you think of elite tight ends, Dallas Goedert probably doesn't come to mind. But the Eagles playmaker has improved each year and is ready to join the ranks of the NFL's top TEs.

With Zach Ertz gone in 2021, Goedert posted career highs in targets (76), receptions (56), and yards (830). He built an excellent rapport with Jalen Hurts. Goedert was rewarded with a 4-year, $59 million contract extension.

Goedert's best days are still ahead, especially in this Eagles offense. His 2018 Panini Prizm Silver RC can be purchased for around $50. That's far below what top TEs like Travis Kelce and George Kittle command.

The Eagles offense could make a big leap this season. Goedert should be one of the prime beneficiaries. Buy his rookie card now before hype starts building.

#1 - Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants

Injuries have hampered Saquon Barkley recently, but don't forget how special he was as a rookie. Barkley put up 2,000+ scrimmage yards and 15 TDs on his way to 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Now entering his fifth season, Barkley is still just 25 years old. He's reportedly regained the explosiveness that once made him a top fantasy RB. If Barkley stays healthy in 2022, his production could return to elite levels.

Barkley's 2018 Panini Prizm Silver RC has sold for over $600 in PSA 10 condition. Even raw copies are fetching $150+. These prices will rocket up with a big season from Saquon.

Don't sleep on Saquon's rookie cards. The Giants offense improved dramatically this offseason. With a better offensive line, Barkley is poised to remind everyone of his generational talent.

Conclusion

The NFC East is home to some of the NFL's rising superstars. Rookie cards of players like Saquon Barkley, Dallas Goedert, and Micah Parsons could end up being worth a fortune down the road.

Make sure to add these five players to your collection now before their prices really take off. Young stars like DeVonta Smith and Terry McLaurin have lots of room for growth as well.

In such a competitive division, these players will need to perform to keep their teams in playoff contention. That bodes well for increased production and continued demand for their rookie cards. Stay ahead of the curve and invest in the NFC East's next generation of talent.