On January 4, 2024, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns achieved a significant milestone by setting a new NFL single-season sack record, recording his 23rd sack. This achievement has sent ripples through the sports card collecting community, with many collectors seizing the moment to capitalize on the surge in demand for Garrett’s cards.
The value of Garrett’s cards has skyrocketed, prompting collectors to reassess their holdings. Notably, one of his most coveted rookie cards, the 2017 Panini Prizm Gold limited to just ten copies, sold for $3,600 on Sunday night. This price represents a remarkable increase from the $1,725 it fetched in May. Such dramatic price movements are not confined to high-end cards alone; even more accessible options, like the 2017 Panini Donruss Optic Holo graded PSA 10, saw a price jump from $82 in October to $400 recently.
Market Dynamics: Caution and Optimism
With such a steep increase in value, questions arise regarding the sustainability of these prices. Historical trends indicate that defensive players often struggle to maintain their value over time, a reality evidenced by the market performances of other notable players. For instance, the highest sale of a card featuring J.J. Watt has remained below $6,000, while cards of offensive star Justin Jefferson have surpassed $80,000.
This context leads to a cautious approach among collectors regarding Myles Garrett’s potential as a long-term investment. While there are outliers in the market, the pattern suggests that defensive players may not enjoy the same lasting value as their offensive counterparts.
Conversely, the passionate fan base in Cleveland could play a pivotal role in Garrett’s card market. The idea that dedicated Browns fans might choose to hold onto Garrett’s best cards as a memento of his record-setting performance adds an interesting dynamic. As is typical in collectible markets, the balance of supply and demand will ultimately dictate the future value of Garrett’s cards.
Future Implications for Collectors
As collectors navigate this evolving landscape, the key will be to weigh the current excitement surrounding Myles Garrett against the historical trends of defensive player card values. While some may opt to cash in on their investments now, others might see the potential for long-term value as part of a broader appreciation for the player’s contributions to the Browns’ legacy.
In conclusion, while the immediate surge in Garrett’s card values presents lucrative opportunities, the long-term sustainability of these prices remains uncertain. Collectors are left to consider their strategies carefully, balancing the thrill of the moment against the lessons of the past.
