The Chiefs and the Eagles are set to square off in the Super Bowl and had last week off. That give us some time to reflect on the wild ride that was the 2022 NFL season. It’s also time for me to hand out my season awards for MVP, Rookie of the Year and Breakout Player of the Year.
These are based more on their hobby impact than what they actually did on the field. There are several players that could be considered for these honors. Patrick Mahomes is clearly the most collected player in the league. He led the NFL in almost every category a quarterback can. Kenny Pickett started out as the Rookie of the Year frontrunner. He might not have put up the biggest numbers but being the new starting quarterback of the Steelers is going to bring in some value right away. Runner up for my Breakout Player goes to Trevor Lawrence. His card values started out sky high, but he had a less-than-stellar rookie season. Jacksonville brought in a new coach and everything changed. The Jags won the South and collectors started paying top dollar for Lawrence’s cards again.
2022 MVP – Justin Jefferson
Justin Jefferson had one of the most amazing seasons ever for a wide receiver, leading the league with 128 receptions and 1,809 yards. Collectors have gone crazy for Jefferson’s cards this season. His values skyrocketed and are higher than any other receiver in the league. For example, the National Treasures RC has more than doubled in value, from $1,000 to $2,200 over the course of the year. If there is any receiver that can break 2,000 yards receiving in a season, a lot of collectors would bet that Justin Jefferson is the guy to do it.
2022 Rookie of the Year – Brock Purdy
Mr. Irrelevant Brock Purdy has seen some of the biggest jumps in value for a player I have ever seen. His card values started out at common levels. He is now the most valuable rookie in 2022 products. Purdy led the 49ers all the way to the NFC Championship game before injuring his throwing arm. The prospects of Purdy remaining the Niners starting quarterback are high and collectors have high hopes for this kid’s future. It would be interesting to see what he could do with a full season to work with. Only time will tell with this one, though.
2022 Breakout Player of the Year – Geno Smith
The Seahawks were supposed to have a down year. They were supposed to be rebuilding. They were not supposed to make the playoffs and have Geno Smith lead them there. Smith threw for over 4,200 yards and 30 touchdowns on the season. He beat out players like Trevor Lawrence, Aaron Rodgers and even Jalen Hurts (who is playing in the Super Bowl). The Seahawks could ride with Geno going forward and collectors are anticipating that. Like most of the 2013 draft class, his card values were at the common level before the season. Now he has some of the highest card values from that draft class.
