Myles Garrett made headlines on January 4, 2024, by breaking the NFL single-season sack record with his 23rd sack. This milestone has sent shockwaves through the sports card collecting community, leading to a significant increase in the value of his cards. Collectors are capitalizing on this moment, viewing it as an ideal opportunity to sell while demand is high.
One of Garrett’s most coveted rookie cards, the 2017 Panini Prizm Gold, limited to just 10 copies, recently fetched $3,600 in a sale after being purchased for only $1,725 in May. This sharp rise in value illustrates the immediate impact of his record-breaking performance.
Even cards that are more accessible to the average collector have seen impressive price increases. The 2017 Panini Donruss Optic Holo, graded as PSA 10, sold for $400 on Sunday, a remarkable surge from its October price of $82. Such a dramatic 400 percent increase raises questions about the sustainability of these prices in the long term.
Market Dynamics for Defensive Players
Defensive players have historically struggled to maintain their card values over time, a trend that collectors must consider. For instance, the highest sale recorded for a J.J. Watt card is below $6,000, whereas Justin Jefferson’s cards have surpassed $80,000. This discrepancy highlights a potential risk for those investing in Garrett’s cards, as the market may not favor defensive players in the same way it does for offensive stars.
Despite these concerns, the fervent support for the Cleveland Browns may play a crucial role in the future of Garrett’s card values. The passion of Browns fans could lead some collectors to hold onto their prized cards as a testament to Garrett’s achievements during his tenure with the team.
Ultimately, the fluctuations in Garrett’s card market will depend on the principles of supply and demand. While some collectors may choose to cash in on their investments now, others may see value in retaining their cards, hoping that the market will continue to appreciate.
As the sports card market evolves, Garrett’s remarkable record has certainly made its mark, and only time will tell how the value of his cards will be affected in the long run. The excitement surrounding this achievement reflects the dynamic nature of sports memorabilia and the passionate community that surrounds it.
