John Elway, the iconic figure in Denver Broncos football, carried a hidden talent long before his quarterback days – baseball. Drafted by the New York Yankees in the 1981 MLB Draft, Elway showcased his prowess on the diamond with an impressive .318 batting average. The 2024 Bowman Draft set pays homage to this forgotten chapter of his career by imagining what his MLB rookie card might have looked like. The card, complete with Elway’s autograph and witty inscriptions, captures a sports era where boundaries between baseball and football were blurred.
Elway’s baseball stint was more than just a display of his athletic versatility; it was a strategic move that influenced his football path. Following his selection as the No. 1 pick in the 1983 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts, Elway leveraged his baseball prospects to secure a trade to the Denver Broncos. This maneuver paved the way for his legendary football career, symbolized in the Bowman Draft card with the inscription “Yankees > Colts.”
An intriguing twist in Elway’s MLB journey was being chosen before the renowned Tony Gwynn in the 1981 draft. This detail is commemorated in another variation of his card, proudly stating “Drafted ahead of Gwynn.” The card brings forth an amusing narrative of Yankees owner George Steinbrenner debating the scout’s pick of Elway, hinting at the alternate sporting trajectory Elway could have taken.
The 2024 Bowman Draft set is a mecca for baseball card enthusiasts, spotlighting emerging MLB talents and prospects. Featuring 200 cards, the collection showcases the future stars of baseball, captivating hobbyists with its promise of excitement and potential. However, Elway’s card adds a unique historical and crossover appeal, bridging the realms of baseball and football.
In terms of collectibility and market value, Elway’s Bowman Draft card comes in diverse variations, escalating in price based on rarity and autograph inclusion. While base versions start around $500, signed limited editions command thousands, especially those with special inscriptions like “Yankees > Colts.” Collectors view these cards not only as a nod to Elway’s dual-sport legacy but also as a valuable investment in sports memorabilia history.
John Elway’s inclusion in the Bowman Draft set transcends a mere gimmick; it symbolizes a significant moment in sports history. It underscores the unconventional path to greatness, highlighting Elway’s bold decisions, exceptional talent, and proficiency across multiple sports arenas. For Topps, it’s a clever fusion of showcasing future stars and revisiting a parallel universe where Elway could have excelled in baseball.
The partnership between Bowman Draft and Elway is seamless, as both entities focus on celebrating potential and the intriguing “what ifs” of sports. Elway’s card epitomizes his athletic prowess and serves as a reminder of his brief foray into baseball stardom. It enriches both his legacy and the Bowman Draft collection, adding depth and narrative to the set.
The 2024 Bowman Draft series has stirred excitement among collectors, with Elway’s card intensifying the fervor. Whether you’re a baseball card aficionado, a Broncos fan, or a sports memorabilia enthusiast, owning Elway’s card means possessing a fragment of sports history. With various editions available, including limited signed copies, this card promises to be a standout release of the year, celebrating Elway’s versatility and his status as a sports icon. Don’t miss the chance to own this remarkable collectible, embodying the essence of what could have been and honoring a legend who excelled in every field.
