2018 Football Cards: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey sports card enthusiasts! Let's rewind the clock to 2018 and dive headfirst into the exciting world of football cards! This year was a goldmine for collectors, packed with rookies making their mark, veterans solidifying their legacies, and some truly stunning card designs. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the 2018 football card scene. We'll explore key sets, highlight the most valuable cards, and give you insider tips to enhance your collecting experience. Get ready to relive some incredible moments and discover (or rediscover) some absolute gems from the 2018 season!

The Landscape of 2018 Football Card Sets: What's Hot?

So, what made the 2018 football card year so special? Well, several factors contributed to its allure. First and foremost, the rookie class was phenomenal! We saw the emergence of stars who would soon dominate the league for years to come. This injected a ton of excitement into the hobby, as collectors scrambled to get their hands on rookie cards of players destined for greatness. The sheer variety of sets also played a crucial role. From the high-end allure of products like Panini National Treasures to the more accessible options, there was something for every budget and preference. Let's take a closer look at some of the most popular and sought-after sets that defined the 2018 football card season.

Panini Prizm

Ah, Panini Prizm! It's practically a staple in the modern card world, and the 2018 Panini Prizm football set did not disappoint. Known for its vibrant, colorful parallels and iconic design, Prizm cards are highly desirable. The 2018 version featured rookie cards of key players and included a variety of parallels, from the basic silver to the super-rare Gold, Gold Vinyl, and Black variations. Finding a Patrick Mahomes rookie Prizm card in good condition? You've got yourself a valuable card! The rookie cards were hot and highly sought after by collectors, making the product a cornerstone of the 2018 season. The crisp design and the exciting array of parallels made this product a must-have for any collector looking for that extra bit of flash in their collection. Many collectors sought the rookies, but also the veterans for a complete collection.

Panini National Treasures

For the high rollers and serious collectors, Panini National Treasures is the pinnacle of football card products. These cards are known for their high price points, limited print runs, and the inclusion of memorabilia like game-worn jerseys and autographs. The 2018 National Treasures set featured some of the most stunning cards of the year, including rookie patch autographs (RPAs) that combined a rookie's autograph with a piece of his jersey. If you were lucky enough to pull a Mahomes RPA from this set, you were sitting on a goldmine! These cards are rare, extremely valuable, and represent the pinnacle of modern football card collecting. This product is usually not available to the general public and requires a premium price point to participate. Getting your hands on one of these cards is a true achievement for any collector.

Other Notable Sets

• Panini Contenders: Contenders, with its classic ticket design and on-card autographs, is always a fan favorite. The 2018 version was no exception, offering a mix of rookie and veteran autographs. The rookie ticket autographs are particularly popular.
• Donruss Optic: Optic provides a chrome alternative to the standard Donruss set, with a similar design but a more modern, glossy feel. The rookie cards are highly coveted. It is a more affordable option for the general public and offers a wide variety of rookies to collect.
• Select: Select brought a unique design to the table, with different levels of scarcity and parallels. The rookie cards were particularly sought after. It is a product that is not as common as the others, but has unique characteristics.

Key Rookies to Chase: Who Were the Big Names?

Alright, let's talk about the players! The 2018 football card season was defined by a truly remarkable rookie class. Many players from this class would go on to become superstars and, of course, their rookie cards are now highly sought after and valuable. So, who should you have been chasing back in 2018?

Patrick Mahomes

No list of 2018 football card rookies is complete without mentioning Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes had a spectacular season, winning the MVP award and leading the Kansas City Chiefs to a high-scoring offense. His rookie cards, especially those from Prizm and National Treasures, are incredibly valuable. It would be wise to seek out the rookies for your collection.

Baker Mayfield

Baker Mayfield brought a lot of hype and excitement to the Cleveland Browns. Although his career had its ups and downs, his rookie cards from the 2018 season are still quite valuable.

Saquon Barkley

Saquon Barkley, the dynamic running back for the New York Giants, was an instant impact player. His rookie cards, especially those featuring his autograph, are highly sought after by collectors. Collectors still seek the rookie cards for their collections.

Other Notable Rookies

• Josh Allen: The strong-armed quarterback of the Buffalo Bills. His rookie cards have gained significant value. The high arm talent was evident from the start, making him a popular choice for collectors.
• Lamar Jackson: The electrifying quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens. His rookie cards, particularly the high-end versions, are in high demand.
• Nick Chubb: The reliable running back for the Cleveland Browns. His rookie cards have also increased in value over time.

Investing in 2018 Football Cards: What to Look For

So, you're looking to invest in 2018 football cards? Smart move! But where do you start? Here are some key factors to consider:

Condition, Condition, Condition

Card condition is paramount. A card in perfect condition (graded as a Gem Mint 10 by a reputable grading service) will always be worth significantly more than a card with even minor flaws. Before you start, be sure to have the correct equipment and know how to grade your cards properly. If not, it is best to leave it up to the experts. The slightest nick, scratch, or corner issue can dramatically decrease a card's value. When buying cards, always look for high-quality scans or photos and, if possible, inspect the card in person.

The Importance of Grading

Having your cards graded by a professional grading service (like PSA or BGS) can add significant value, and authenticity. Grading services assess the card's condition and assign a numerical grade. A graded card offers assurance to potential buyers, making it easier to sell and command a higher price. Grading also protects the card in a secure holder.

Rarity and Serial Numbers

The rarer the card, the more valuable it tends to be. Look for cards with limited print runs, serial numbers, and parallels. The lower the print run, the more valuable the card. A serial number indicates how many copies of the card were printed.

Player Performance and Popularity

The player's performance on the field has a direct impact on the value of their cards. Players who become stars will see their card values increase dramatically. Their popularity also plays a crucial role.

Long-Term Potential

Consider the player's potential for sustained success. Rookie cards of promising players tend to be good long-term investments. Try to stay up to date on your information.

Where to Buy and Sell 2018 Football Cards

Navigating the card market can be tricky, but here's the lowdown on the best places to buy and sell.

• Online Marketplaces: eBay is the go-to platform for buying and selling cards. You'll find a massive selection and can compare prices. Make sure you understand how to navigate the platform.
• Online Card Shops: Many online retailers specialize in sports cards. They often offer a curated selection and can provide expert advice. You can also save time and money.
• Local Card Shops: Your local card shop is a great place to build relationships with other collectors, get a feel for the market, and sometimes find great deals.
• Card Shows and Conventions: Attending card shows is a fantastic way to meet fellow collectors, see cards in person, and often find rare or valuable items. It is always nice to meet other people in person.
• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram have many card trading and selling groups. It is very useful for getting updates.

Protecting Your 2018 Football Card Investment

So you’ve spent your hard-earned cash on some sweet 2018 football cards? Congratulations! Now, let's talk about keeping your investment safe. Protecting your cards is just as important as choosing the right ones. Here's how to ensure your collection stays in tip-top shape and maintains its value:

Sleeves and Toploaders

Always, always, always protect your cards with sleeves and toploaders. Sleeves are soft plastic protectors that go directly over the card, preventing scratches. Toploaders are rigid plastic holders that provide further protection. You can find these at any sports card store or online retailer. It is very important to get the right size for the cards.

Storage Boxes

Invest in quality storage boxes designed for sports cards. These boxes keep your cards organized, dust-free, and safe from damage. There are many options, from basic cardboard boxes to more elaborate cases. Choose boxes that fit your collection's size and your storage needs.

Controlled Environment

Store your cards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Humidity and sunlight can damage cards over time, so it's essential to create a stable environment. Make sure to keep the cards away from children and pets.

Insurance

For valuable collections, consider getting insurance. Many insurance companies offer specialized policies for collectibles. This can protect your investment against theft, damage, or loss. It is a good idea to consider the overall value of your collection.

The Future of 2018 Football Card Collecting

The 2018 football card market continues to be vibrant. The rookies of 2018 are now established stars. Their rookie cards, along with the high-end sets from that year, will remain highly sought after for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, the 2018 football card season offers exciting opportunities. Keep an eye on player performances, stay informed about market trends, and most importantly, enjoy the thrill of the hobby. Happy collecting, guys!