As the excitement for the 2025 NFL Draft builds, fans and collectors alike are already speculating on which prospects will not only make it to the league but also emerge as stars with valuable rookie cards. With the Senior Bowl showcasing top college players and the NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner, this year’s draft class holds immense potential.
NFL Draft 2025: Senior Bowl Standouts and Their Potential Rookie Card Value
Players who impress scouts and coaches during these events have a high chance of being drafted early, increasing their value in the trading card market. If you’re an investor looking to get ahead of the game, these standout prospects could become the next big names to watch in the world of football cards.
Senior Bowl 2025: Key Players Who Shined
The Senior Bowl is more than a showcase for collegiate talent—it’s a critical event where players can improve their draft stock and make an impression that could define their careers. Here are the players who stood out and why they could be future stars in the league.
• Walter Nolen (DT, Mississippi)
• Jalen Royals (WR, Utah State)
Jack Bech (WR, TCU)
Bech impressed scouts with his precise route running, strong hands, and ability to create separation. His performance during practice sessions showed that he could be a dynamic slot receiver or an outside threat in the NFL. If he’s drafted early by a pass-heavy team, expect his rookie cards—especially from Panini Prizm or Optic—to be in high demand.
#TCU WR Jack Bech has been one of the standouts from #SeniorBowl week. Makes a nice reception here from QB Riley Leonard. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/dPUPLWCKqq
— Steelers Black and Gold Nation (@B_GNation1) February 1, 2025
Mike Green (EDGE, Marshall)
Known for his explosive pass-rushing skills, Green made waves during individual drills, consistently getting past offensive linemen. His athleticism and versatility as a defensive lineman have boosted his draft stock, making him a potential top-50 pick. Collectors should keep an eye on his rookie cards, especially if he becomes a starter early in his career.
Elijah Arroyo (TE, Miami)
After recovering from a knee injury, Arroyo displayed excellent athleticism, agility, and strong blocking ability. His ability to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties makes him a valuable offensive weapon. If he’s drafted by a team that utilizes tight ends in its offensive scheme, his rookie cards could see a sharp rise in value.
Elijah Arroyo might be one of the best route running TE’s the NFL Draft has EVER seen.
Arroyo reportedly “blew scouts away” with his route running ability at the Senior Bowl.
Some scouts have reportedly moved Arroyo up to TE3 on their boards.
With some having him ahead of… pic.twitter.com/zbk5x1jxCs
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) January 31, 2025
Walter Nolen (DT, Mississippi)
Nolen, one of the most dominant defensive tackles at the Senior Bowl, demonstrated impressive strength and quickness. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield makes him a potential first-round pick. Defensive players often see slower initial growth in card value, but if he delivers as expected, limited edition and autographed rookie cards could become highly sought after.
Ole Miss DT Walter Nolen Senior Bowl highlights: pic.twitter.com/KIWUhUmY9o
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) January 29, 2025
Jalen Royals (WR, Utah State)
With his powerful frame and precise footwork, Royals proved himself as a reliable receiver capable of making contested catches. His strong performance could translate into significant playing time if he lands on a team needing wide receiver depth. Rookie cards from premium sets such as National Treasures and Select could hold significant value if he has a breakout year.
Didn’t have the best QB situation last year, but I felt that Jalen Royals skillset is intriguing. Very good with the ball in his hands, contested situations, and feel as a route runner. Will be interesting to see how he does at Senior Bowl pic.twitter.com/ViekI90mY2
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) January 14, 2025
NFL Scouting Combine: Next Step for These Prospects
The next big event for these players is the NFL Scouting Combine, scheduled for February 27 to March 2, 2025, in Indianapolis. The Combine will give players the opportunity to further showcase their physical skills through drills like the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and bench press. Strong performances can elevate their draft status and, consequently, increase the demand for their rookie cards.
Collectors should monitor updates from the Combine, as top performers typically see a surge in interest even before the draft. Prospects like Bech, Nolen, and Green could further solidify their positions as top rookie card investments.
What to Watch for Post-Draft
After the 2025 NFL Draft, card manufacturers like Panini and Topps will release their first wave of rookie cards for the new season. For serious collectors, early editions, autographed cards, and limited parallels (such as Gold and Black Prizms) could offer the highest long-term returns.
The players who shine during the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine are often among the most valuable rookie cards once they make their NFL debut. As we head into the draft, these names—Jack Bech, Mike Green, Elijah Arroyo, Walter Nolen, and Jalen Royals—are worth following. Their success on the field could translate to lucrative investments in the trading card world. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to grab these potential gems early!