C.J. Stroud, the standout quarterback and second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is making waves in his early NFL career with the Houston Texans. His impressive start has sparked significant interest in his rookie cards among collectors and fans alike. As a former Ohio State Buckeye, Stroud’s transition to the NFL was highly anticipated, and he has undoubtedly lived up to expectations, leading to a surge in demand for his rookie cards.
A range of C.J. Stroud rookie cards are available in various popular sets and series. Here are some top cards that collectors should consider:
– 2023 Donruss Rated Rookie C.J. Stroud RC #339: This affordable mainstream option from 2023 Donruss Football is a favorite among collectors. It features various parallels and an Optic Preview card. The Downtown insert from this set is particularly sought-after for its rarity and high value.
– 2023 Donruss Elite C.J. Stroud RC #112 (#/999): While not as flashy as some other options, this card from Donruss Elite offers a solid rookie card with a base version limited to 999 copies and several rarer parallels.
– 2023 Panini Black C.J. Stroud RC #154: This option is more elusive, given the limited number of cards per box in Panini Black Football. Stroud’s card is part of a set that includes only five cards per box, three of which are typically autographs or relics.
– 2023 Panini Gold Standard C.J. Stroud RC #112 (#/99): In Gold Standard, Stroud’s rookie card is limited to 99 copies. The set also includes other numbered editions like Platinum and rare inserts like Double Eagle and El Dorado.
– 2023 Panini Mosaic C.J. Stroud RC #292: This is a popular choice across all budgets. Panini Mosaic Football offers high-end parallels and key inserts for Stroud, including Kaleidoscope and Stained Glass.
– 2023 Panini Plates & Patches C.J. Stroud RC #163: This set presents a challenge for collectors due to the scarcity of base cards. However, it remains a valuable addition for those seeking Stroud’s cards.
In terms of autographed cards, while pack-pulled autographs featuring Stroud in his Texans jersey are notably absent, several collegiate/prospect autograph cards are available from various manufacturers, including Bowman/Topps, Panini, and Leaf.
One licensed NFL autograph card that collectors can pursue is the 2023 Panini Instant RPS First Look Autographs C.J. Stroud #42 (#/391). It is an early release from Panini that offered direct-to-consumer autographs in limited quantities. Additionally, the 2023 Topps Now Draft Football card, although lacking NFL licensing, features an on-card autograph from Stroud based on his NFL Draft night appearance.
As more 2023 Football Cards are released throughout the year, collectors can expect to find even more options for adding C.J. Stroud rookie cards to their collections. Whether seeking mainstream, inexpensive options or rare, high-value inserts and autographs, the range of C.J. Stroud rookie cards offers something for every collector and fan of this rising NFL star. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of the C.J. Stroud legacy.
