2019 Donruss Football: A Collector's Guide

by Jhon Lennon 43 views

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive deep into the world of football card collecting? Today, we're talking about the 2019 Donruss Football set – a collection that’s packed with awesome rookies, stunning inserts, and the kind of nostalgia that makes this hobby so addictive. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, this guide will give you the lowdown on what makes this set special, what to look for, and why it’s still worth chasing those cardboard treasures.

What Makes 2019 Donruss Football Special?

So, what's the buzz about 2019 Donruss Football? First off, it's all about the rookies. This set boasts a stellar class of future NFL stars, including guys like Kyler Murray, Daniel Jones, and Gardner Minshew (Minshew Mania, anyone?). Landing their rookie cards is like finding gold, especially if they've gone on to have stellar careers.

But it's not just about the rookies. Donruss always brings a classic, clean design to the table, making the cards visually appealing. The base cards are sharp, the action photography is top-notch, and the inserts are creatively designed to catch your eye. Plus, there’s a ton of variety, meaning you can chase different subsets, parallels, and autographs, keeping the collecting experience fresh and exciting. For those of you who love the thrill of the hunt, 2019 Donruss Football offers a satisfying challenge.

And let's not forget the nostalgia factor. Donruss has been a staple in the football card world for decades, and opening packs brings back memories of ripping cards as a kid. That classic Donruss feel, combined with a strong rookie class, makes this set a winner in many collectors' books. The blend of old-school charm and modern-day stars is a big part of what makes 2019 Donruss Football so special.

Key Rookies to Chase

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Which rookies should you be hunting for in 2019 Donruss Football? Here’s a rundown of some of the most sought-after names:

  • Kyler Murray: The Heisman Trophy winner and first overall pick. His Donruss rookie cards are a must-have for any serious collector. Look out for his Rated Rookie cards and autographs, which can fetch a premium.
  • Daniel Jones: "Danny Dimes" himself! While opinions were split on him initially, his cards have gained traction, especially among Giants fans. His Rated Rookie card is definitely one to keep an eye on.
  • Gardner Minshew: The legend of Minshew Mania! His cards were a hot commodity early on, and while his career has had its ups and downs, his rookie cards still hold appeal due to his unique personality and brief burst of stardom.
  • Josh Jacobs: A bruising running back who quickly made a name for himself. His rookie cards are popular among those who appreciate a strong running game.
  • DK Metcalf: This guy is a physical specimen. His combination of size and speed made him an instant fan favorite, and his rookie cards reflect that popularity.

Of course, there are plenty of other notable rookies in the set, but these are some of the headliners. Keep an eye out for parallels and autographs to add some extra value to your collection.

Popular Insert Sets

Inserts are where 2019 Donruss Football really shines. These special cards add a ton of visual appeal and collectibility to the set. Here are some of the most popular insert sets you'll find:

  • Rated Rookies: The quintessential Donruss insert. These cards feature the top rookies of the year with the iconic Rated Rookie logo. They're a staple of the brand and highly sought after.
  • Optic Rated Rookies: A chromium version of the Rated Rookies, giving the cards a shiny, high-end look. These are often more valuable than the base Rated Rookies.
  • Downtown!: These cards showcase the players in front of their city skylines. These are super rare and feature amazing artwork. The Downtown! inserts are tough pulls, but they're among the most desirable cards in the set.
  • Gridiron Kings: These inserts have a unique, artistic design that sets them apart. They often feature action shots with cool graphical elements.
  • Power Plus: These cards highlight players with exceptional power and athleticism. The design is bold and eye-catching.

Each of these insert sets offers something different, whether it’s a classic design, a modern chromium finish, or unique artwork. Chasing these inserts can be just as fun as hunting for the base cards and rookies.

Parallels: Adding Some Shine

If you're a fan of shiny cards, 2019 Donruss Football has you covered with a variety of parallels. Parallels are essentially variations of the base cards, featuring different colors, finishes, or serial numbering. Here are some of the parallels you might encounter:

  • Press Proofs: These parallels typically feature a different color or finish compared to the base cards. They’re a classic parallel type and add a subtle variation to the set.
  • Holo Parallels: These cards have a holographic finish that makes them shimmer and shine. They're a popular choice among collectors who love a bit of flash.
  • Numbered Parallels: These are the most desirable parallels, as they are printed in limited quantities and feature a serial number. The lower the number, the more valuable the card.

Chasing parallels can be a fun way to add some variety to your collection. They also offer the potential for higher value, especially if you can snag a low-numbered parallel of a star player.

Autographs: The Ultimate Chase

For many collectors, the ultimate goal is to pull an autograph card. 2019 Donruss Football has plenty of autographs to chase, featuring signatures from rookies, veterans, and even legends of the game.

Look for autographs in sets like:

  • Rated Rookies Signatures: Autographed versions of the popular Rated Rookies cards. These are highly sought after, especially for top rookies like Kyler Murray and Daniel Jones.
  • Retro 1999 Signatures: These autographs harken back to the 1999 Donruss design, giving them a nostalgic feel.
  • Base Autographs: Autographed versions of the base set cards, which can be tough to find.

Pulling an autograph is always a thrill, and it can significantly boost the value of your collection. Just remember to always handle autograph cards with care to preserve their condition.

Tips for Collecting 2019 Donruss Football

Okay, so you're ready to start collecting 2019 Donruss Football. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your experience:

  • Set a Budget: It's easy to get carried away when buying cards, so set a budget and stick to it. This will help you avoid overspending and keep your collecting hobby sustainable.
  • Do Your Research: Before buying any cards, research their value and rarity. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid overpaying.
  • Buy Smart: Consider buying singles instead of packs if you're targeting specific cards. This can be more cost-effective in the long run.
  • Protect Your Cards: Invest in card sleeves and top loaders to protect your cards from damage. This will help preserve their condition and value.
  • Have Fun: Remember, collecting cards is a hobby, so enjoy the process. Don't get too caught up in the value and rarity of the cards.

Where to Find 2019 Donruss Football

So, where can you find 2019 Donruss Football cards? Here are a few options:

  • Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay and COMC are great places to find individual cards and complete sets.
  • Local Card Shops: Visit your local card shop to browse their selection and support your local hobby community.
  • Online Retailers: Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart may still have some 2019 Donruss Football products available.
  • Card Shows: Attend card shows to meet other collectors, buy, sell, and trade cards.

Final Thoughts

The 2019 Donruss Football set is a fantastic collection that offers something for everyone. With a strong rookie class, classic designs, and a variety of inserts and parallels, it's a set that's sure to keep you entertained. So, go ahead, rip some packs, chase those rookies, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Happy collecting!