Introduction
Justin Patrick Herbert, born on March 10, 1998, in Eugene, Oregon, is a prominent American football quarterback currently playing for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL. Known for his exceptional talent and leadership on the field, Herbert has quickly established himself as one of the league's top quarterbacks.
Early Life and Education
Herbert grew up in a sports-oriented family; his father, Mark, played football and ran track at the University of Montana, while his maternal grandfather, Rich Schwab, was a receiver for the University of Oregon in the 1960s. He attended Sheldon High School in Eugene, where he excelled in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. Despite suffering a broken leg during his junior year, which complicated his recruitment, Herbert rebounded in his senior year, throwing for 3,130 yards and 37 touchdowns, earning first-team All-State honors and the Southwest Conference Offensive Player of the Year title.
Herbert committed to the University of Oregon in October 2015, where he became the first true freshman to start as quarterback since Chris Miller in 1983. His college career was marked by significant achievements, including leading the Ducks to a 12-2 record in 2019, winning the Pac-12 Championship, and being named the MVP of the 2020 Rose Bowl.
College Career
During his time at Oregon, Herbert set numerous records, including becoming the fastest player in program history to reach 4,000 and 5,000 passing yards. He finished his college career with 10,541 passing yards, 95 touchdown passes, and was recognized as a First Team Academic All-American three times. Herbert's combination of academic excellence and athletic prowess earned him the William V. Campbell Trophy in 2019, highlighting his status as one of the best student-athletes in college football history.
NFL Career
Herbert was selected sixth overall by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2020 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact, becoming the starting quarterback in just his second game after Tyrod Taylor suffered an injury. Herbert's rookie season was historic; he set several records, including the most touchdown passes (31) and most 300-yard games (eight) by a rookie, earning him the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
In his second season, Herbert continued to excel, throwing for over 5,000 yards and 38 touchdowns, which led to his first Pro Bowl selection. He broke several franchise records and became the fastest player in NFL history to accumulate over 9,000 passing yards in his first two seasons. Despite facing challenges in his third season, including injuries to key teammates, Herbert maintained impressive statistics, showcasing his resilience and skill as a leader on the field.
Personal Life
Beyond football, Herbert is known for his philanthropic efforts, including participating in service trips to Uganda. He is also recognized for his academic achievements, having graduated with a degree in science from Oregon. Herbert's family remains influential in his life, with his younger brother, Patrick, also playing football at Oregon and his older brother, Mitchell, having played at Montana State University.
Justin Herbert's journey from a multi-sport athlete in Eugene to an NFL star exemplifies dedication, talent, and the pursuit of excellence both on and off the field. As he continues to develop his career, he remains a key player to watch in the NFL.
Undervalued Justin Herbert Cards
10. 2020 Rookies & Stars Justin Herbert Rookie Card #103
Description: The 2020 Rookies & Stars Justin Herbert Rookie Card #103 stands as a beacon of excitement in the world of sports memorabilia, encapsulating the essence of a rising star in the NFL. The card features a striking design that highlights Herbert in his Los Angeles Chargers uniform, showcasing the team's iconic blue and gold colors. The background is a dynamic blend of vibrant hues, symbolizing the energy and promise of Herbert's rookie season. His confident stance and focused expression capture the determination that propelled him to break multiple rookie records. It is printed on high-quality stock, ensuring durability and a premium feel. Its glossy finish enhances the visual appeal, making Herbert's image pop against the backdrop. The card is part of the Rookies & Stars series, known for its collectible nature and limited print runs, which adds to its desirability among fans and investors.
9. 2020 Donruss Justin Herbert Rookie Card #303
Description: The 2020 Donruss Justin Herbert Rookie Card #303 is a captivating piece of sports memorabilia that captures the essence of a rising star in the NFL. The card features a striking design that showcases Herbert in his Los Angeles Chargers uniform, with the team's iconic lightning bolt logo prominently displayed. The background is a vibrant mix of colors, creating a dynamic and eye-catching contrast. Herbert's confident pose and focused expression convey his determination and skill on the field. It is part of the Donruss series, known for its collectible nature and attention to detail, which is a must-have for any serious collector or fan looking to commemorate the rise of a true talent.
8. 2020 Absolute Justin Herbert Rookie Card #167
Description: The card features a stunning action shot of Herbert, showcasing his powerful delivery and determination on the field. The vivid colors and dynamic composition capture the energy and intensity of the game. Printed on high-quality cardstock, the card boasts a sleek, glossy finish that enhances the vibrant imagery and ensures durability for years to come. As a highly coveted rookie card from the 2020 Absolute collection, this card is a must-have for any serious collector or Herbert enthusiast.
7. 2020 Illusions Justin Herbert Rookie Card #7
6. 2020 Mosaic Justin Herbert Rookie Card #204
Description: The 2020 Mosaic Justin Herbert Rookie Card #204 is a stunning collectible that captures the electrifying spirit of one of the NFL's brightest young quarterbacks. This card features a vibrant and dynamic design that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Herbert's playstyle. Set against a shimmering mosaic background, Herbert is depicted in his Los Angeles Chargers uniform, exuding confidence and determination. The rich colors and intricate patterns create a three-dimensional effect, drawing the viewer's eye and making the card stand out in any collection. It is printed on high-quality stock, ensuring durability while maintaining a premium feel. The glossy finish enhances the visual appeal, allowing Herbert's image to shine brightly. The Mosaic series is renowned for its unique aesthetic, and this card is no exception, showcasing the artistry that Panini is known for.
5. 2020 Select Justin Herbert Premier Level Rookie Card #144
Description: The 2020 Select Justin Herbert Premier Level Rookie Card #144 is a dazzling collectible that encapsulates the brilliance of one of the NFL's most promising talents. This card features a sleek and modern design, showcasing Herbert in his iconic Los Angeles Chargers uniform. The Premier Level designation adds an air of exclusivity, with a unique layout that highlights Herbert’s poised demeanor as he prepares to make a game-changing play. The card's background is adorned with a vibrant mix of colors and patterns, creating a dynamic visual effect that enhances its overall appeal. Crafted on high-quality stock, the card boasts a glossy finish that makes Herbert's image leap from the surface, capturing the excitement of the game. The Select series is known for its attention to detail, and this card exemplifies that with its intricate design elements and sharp focus on Herbert's athletic prowess.
4. 2020 Select Justin Herbert Field Level Rookie Card #344
Description: The 2020 Select Justin Herbert Field Level Rookie Card #344 features a sleek and modern design that captures Herbert in his Los Angeles Chargers uniform, poised and ready to make a game-changing play. The Field Level designation adds an element of exclusivity, distinguishing it from other cards in the Select series. The background showcases a vibrant, dynamic pattern that complements Herbert's image, creating a visually stunning effect that draws the eye. Printed on high-quality stock, the card boasts a glossy finish that enhances its appeal, making Herbert's likeness pop with clarity and vibrancy. The intricate details and sharp focus reflect the craftsmanship that Panini is known for, ensuring this card stands out in any collection.
3. 2020 Chronicles Justin Herbert Prizm Black Rookie Card #PB3
Description: The 2020 Chronicles Justin Herbert Prizm Black Rookie Card #PB3 is a stunning collectible that embodies the excitement and promise of one of the NFL's brightest young quarterbacks. This card features a sleek, modern design that showcases Herbert in his iconic Los Angeles Chargers uniform in action. The Prizm Black finish adds a layer of sophistication, with a glossy, reflective surface that captures light beautifully, enhancing Herbert's image against a bold black background. The card's sharp lines and vibrant colors create a dynamic contrast, making it a true centerpiece in any collection.
2. 2020 Optic Justin Herbert Rookie Card #153
Description: The 2020 Optic Justin Herbert Rookie Card #153 features a sleek, modern design that showcases Herbert in his striking Los Angeles Chargers uniform, poised and ready to unleash his powerful arm. The Optic series is known for its vibrant colors and stunning chrome finish; this card is no exception. The background is adorned with a radiant burst of colors that complements Herbert's image, creating a dynamic visual experience that draws the eye. The clean lines and sharp focus reflect the artistry that Panini is known for, making this card a standout piece in any collection.
1. 2020 Prizm Justin Herbert Rookie Card #325
Description: The 2020 Prizm Justin Herbert Rookie Card #325 features a sleek and modern design that showcases Herbert in his Los Angeles Chargers uniform, ready to make a game-changing play. The Prizm finish gives the card a vibrant, reflective quality, enhancing the colors and details of Herbert's image. The background is a captivating blend of hues that creates depth and movement, perfectly complementing the dynamic nature of the game. Crafted on high-quality stock, the card boasts a glossy surface that ensures durability while providing a premium feel. The sharp focus on Herbert's determined expression captures the essence of his competitive spirit, making this card a true gem for any collection.
Investment Potential of Justin Herbert Rookie Cards
The investment potential of Trae Young rookie cards is considerable, driven by several factors that enhance their desirability among collectors and investors.
Pricing as of 08/20/2024:
PSA
BGS
SGC & RAW
POP Report as of 08/20/2024:
Here are some key factors to consider:
Rookie Season Success: Herbert had an outstanding rookie season in 2020, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 31 touchdowns. He was named the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, setting numerous rookie passing records. This immediate success has increased demand for his rookie cards.
Long-Term Potential: At just 24 years old, Herbert is poised to be a top quarterback in the league for many years. If he continues his trajectory and leads the Chargers to playoff success, his rookie cards could see significant appreciation in value. Historically, rookie cards of elite QBs like Patrick Mahomes have skyrocketed in value.
Scarcity and Collectability: Many of Herbert's rookie cards, especially from premium sets like Prizm and Optic, have limited print runs. Rarer parallels and autographed versions are particularly scarce and collectible. Cards in pristine condition (PSA 10) are most valuable.
Affordability: While high-end Herbert rookie cards can be expensive, there are many affordable options for investors on a budget, like the Donruss Rated Rookie #303. Buying multiple raw cards and submitting them for grading can yield high-value PSA 10 gems.
Market Trends: The sports card market has been booming, with rookie QB cards driving much of the growth. As long as Herbert continues to perform and the market stays strong, his cards should maintain value. However, the market can be volatile, so investors should be cautious.
In summary, Justin Herbert's rookie cards have strong investment potential due to his immediate success, long-term potential, scarcity, and overall health of the sports card market. Investing in his cards, especially premium parallels and autographs, could pay off handsomely if he becomes an elite QB. However, as with any investment, there are risks involved.