The Future of NFL Rookie Cards: The Signs of Greatness to Come from Panini America

How’s this for cool: At this very moment, some of the most coveted and valuable Rookie Cards of the entire 2011 NFL season are stacked discreetly along an otherwise nondescript hallway at Panini America HQ, cataloged neatly inside a heaping mound of white storage boxes.

Over the course of the next several weeks, Joe White, the man tasked with procuring all of Panini America’s NFL autographs, will ensure that every last one of them receives the on-card autograph that will make them complete.

No pressure, huh?

Frankly, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I came across the stunning assortment of Rookie Cards and accompanying parallels before me, gorgeous gems one and all slated for inclusion in 2011 Absolute Memorabilia, 2011 Crown Royale and 2011 Limited. I did a double take . . . then a triple take. And as soon as White had finished making his list and checking it twice, I jumped at the opportunity to bring you the following images.

The next time you see these beauties — ideally in a gallery right here on The Knight’s Lance — they’ll be autographed. And they’ll be spectacular.

Until then, though, you’ll have to use your imagination.