The Offensive Rookie of the Year is Big in this Year’s Chrome Football Release
The long-awaited return of Topps Chrome Football is finally here, with the 2024 set now hitting shelves. This marks the first Topps Chrome Football release since 2015, making it a monumental moment for collectors. The 300-card set promises excitement, featuring two autographs per box and a slew of coveted rookie cards. Leading the charge is Jayden Daniels, the most sought-after rookie in the set.
Collectors are already hunting for Daniels’ base cards and autographs, which have become a hot commodity as he progressed through his historic rookie regular season and playoffs. Dozens of Daniels’ cards have sold for $5,000 or more on eBay, reflecting his meteoric rise in the NFL and The Hobby. Card Ladder reports the value of his cards has increased 63.5% since the playoffs began.
Daniels’ rookie season has been nothing short of spectacular. He put on a quarterbacking master class in leading the Washington Commanders to their first NFC Championship Game appearance since 1991. His 1/1 Topps Now card commemorates his playoff win against the Lions, which made him only the fourth rookie QB in league history to win multiple postseason games. It features a game-worn pant relic and an autograph with his game stats.
Throughout his rookie campaign, Daniels shattered expectations. NFL experts are already calling him one of the top quarterbacks in the game. Tyler Brooke of the 33rd Team wrote, “It’s still early in his career, but as of right now, Daniels is making a powerful argument to belong in the conversation as a top-five quarterback in the league.” Some analysts have even called him the best rookie QB in league history.
He finished his first regular season with 3,568 passing yards, 891 rushing yards, 31 total touchdowns, and only nine interceptions. His passer rating was north of 100.
Daniels’ First of Many Postseasons?
Daniels was impressive even in his loss against Philadelphia and its league-leading defense, completing 29 passes for 255 yards, rushing for 48, and tallying two total touchdowns. In his three playoff games, he compiled nearly 1,000 passing and rushing yards with six total touchdowns vs. just one turnover. He was sacked just four times in 118 pass plays.
Collectors and fans alike are eager to see how his career unfolds. The question now is whether Daniels will continue his ascent in his sophomore season or face the challenges that some young quarterbacks, like C.J. Stroud in 2024, have encountered.
Given Daniels’ performance under playoff pressure, the likelihood of a sophomore slump seems remote. His talent and composure suggest he’s just scratched the surface of his potential, making it likely he’ll be a central player in postseason football for years to come.
