C.J. Stroud, the talented rookie quarterback from the Houston Texans and the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has been making waves in his early NFL career. As a former Ohio State Buckeye, Stroud’s transition to the professional league was highly anticipated, and he has proven himself to be a standout player. This success has generated significant interest in his rookie cards among collectors and fans alike.
A wide range of C.J. Stroud rookie cards is available, encompassing various sets and series that are popular among collectors. Here are some of the top cards that collectors should consider adding to their collections:
1. 2023 Donruss Rated Rookie C.J. Stroud RC #339:
This card from the 2023 Donruss Football set is an affordable option favored by many collectors. It offers various parallels and features an Optic Preview card. The Downtown insert from this set is particularly prized for its rarity and high value.
2. 2023 Donruss Elite C.J. Stroud RC #112 (#/999):
While not as flashy as some other options, this Donruss Elite card provides a solid rookie card with a base version limited to 999 copies. It also offers several rarer parallels for those looking for something more unique.
3. 2023 Panini Black C.J. Stroud RC #154:
Considered a more elusive option, the Panini Black Football set features limited cards per box. Stroud’s card is part of a set that typically includes only five cards per box, with three of them being autographs or relics.
4. 2023 Panini Gold Standard C.J. Stroud RC #112 (#/99):
In the Gold Standard set, Stroud’s rookie card is limited to just 99 copies. Other numbered editions, such as Platinum, are also available. This set also includes rare inserts like Double Eagle and El Dorado.
5. 2023 Panini Mosaic C.J. Stroud RC #292:
Panini Mosaic Football is a popular choice across all budgets. It offers high-end parallels and key inserts for Stroud, including Kaleidoscope and Stained Glass.
6. 2023 Panini Plates & Patches C.J. Stroud RC #163:
The scarcity of base cards in this set makes it a challenge for collectors, but it remains a valuable addition for those seeking Stroud’s cards.
When it comes to autographed cards, there is a notable absence of pack-pulled autographs featuring Stroud in his Texans jersey. However, 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). This early release from Panini offered direct-to-consumer autographs in limited quantities. Additionally, the 2023 Topps Now Draft Football card, though 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.
