- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 395,149
- Reaction score
- 43
You must be registered for see images
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 05: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the New York Jets looks on before the game against the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium on January 05, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Luke Hales via Getty Images
Aaron Rodgers, the 41-year-old quarterback and four-time NFL MVP, is in uncharted territory after being released by the New York Jets on March 12, 2025. Despite posting respectable numbers in 2024 (3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions), Rodgers couldn’t prevent the Jets from stumbling to an underwhelming 5-12 record. Now, as he navigates free agency for the first time in his career, both NFL teams and card collectors are weighing a critical question: Does Rodgers have one final act of brilliance left, or is this the end of an era?
The Last Man Standing
The 2025 quarterback free agent game of musical chairs has been surprising, with most spots now filled. The Seahawks locked up Sam Darnold, the Giants secured Russell Wilson, and ironically, the Jets replaced Rodgers with Justin Fields. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings appear committed to developing their 2024 first-round pick, J.J. McCarthy, effectively removing another potential landing spot.
Enter the Pittsburgh Steelers – perhaps Rodgers' only hope for continuing his NFL journey. In an interesting reversal of the typical free agency dance, Rodgers essentially invited himself to Pittsburgh for a six-hour meeting that league insiders describe as promising. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported the unusual circumstances: “Aaron basically invited himself on a visit late last week… This deal has been in place contract-wise for weeks. They’ve discussed parameters. This is not going to be a financial issue at all for Aaron Rodgers. If it gets done it’s going to be a 1-year deal.”
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin described the meeting as “productive,” focusing on understanding Rodgers’ values as a player and person rather than rushing his decision. As this high stakes negotiation unfolds, collectors are watching closely, knowing that Rodgers’ next move could either revitalize or further depress a once-booming memorabilia market.
Memorabilia Market Trends
Rodgers’ free agency has had a significant impact on his card prices. Few collecting niches have experienced as dramatic a fall as the once a highly sought-after collectible. Some of his most coveted rookie cards have experienced a decline in value that mirror his recent on-field struggles:
2005 Topps Rookie Card #431 (PSA 10)
Peak value (January 2021): $1,229.07
Current value (March 2025): $125.95– a jaw-dropping 90% collapse
Buy on eBay
2005 Topps Chrome Rookie Card (PSA 10)
Peak value (January 2022): $6,062.50
Current value (March 2025): $1,100- a freefall of over 80%
Buy on eBay
Meanwhile, Jets memorabilia(buy on eBay) featuring Rodgers is being marked down and sold off as quickly as possible. Collectors looking to add unique fits to their collection can pounce on a Rodgers Legacy Green for more than half off on Fanatics. Despite this downturn, collectors appear optimistic about a potential bounce back moment for Rodgers once he signs with a new team. Recent sales have indicated that the Aaron Rodgers market has not fully perished. The 2005 Donruss Throwback Threads #192 Base PSA 9 has seen a 44.4% increase in sale price over the last 30 days. Could this be the perfect buying opportunity before a comeback in the ‘Steel City’ sends prices soaring again?
Why Rodgers’ Memorabilia Matters
Despite their aesthetic limitations – many feature criticized non-transparent stickers that diminish their visual appeal – Rodgers' rookie cards from 2005 remain significant pieces of football history. As Rodgers approaches what could be his final NFL season, collectors may view his cards as long-term investments tied to his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
When the dust settles on his playing career, Rodgers’ place among the NFL’s all-time great quarterbacks seems secure. His combination of extraordinary talent, statistical excellence, and the magical Super Bowl XLV run ensures his long-term relevance in football discussions for decades to come.
The question for collectors isn’t whether Rodgers belongs in the conversation with Brady, Manning, and others–it’s whether he has one more chapter to add to his story. If he revives his career in Pittsburgh or elsewhere, those who bought during this market dip could be rewarded handsomely. If not, his cards still represent a Hall of fame career. As Rodgers weighs his options and teams calculate the risk of signing the aging veteran, one thing remains certain– few athletes in any sport have generated as much intrigue in both free agency and the collecting world. Whether you’re investing in cards or just watching the drama unfold to determine your fantasy drafts for next year, Aaron Rodgers continues to command our attention with father time ticking down.
Your collection deserves a community. Download Mantel today.
Continue reading...
