Long before John Elway became synonymous with Denver Broncos football, he was an accomplished baseball player. Drafted by the New York Yankees in the second round of the 1981 MLB Draft (52nd overall), Elway played for the Yankees’ Single-A affiliate, where he impressed with a .318 batting average. His potential as a professional baseball player was undeniable, and scouts viewed him as a dual-sport standout with a bright future in either sport.
Topps honors this lesser-known side of Elway’s career in the 2024 Bowman Draft set, imagining what his MLB rookie card might have looked like if he’d stayed on the diamond. The card features Elway’s autograph and clever inscriptions, capturing a moment in sports history where the line between baseball and football was blurred.
Elway’s baseball career didn’t just demonstrate his athletic versatility—it also played a crucial role in shaping his football destiny. After being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts, Elway publicly threatened to forego football and pursue baseball instead of playing for the struggling franchise.
The bold move worked. Using his baseball prospects as leverage, Elway forced a trade to the Denver Broncos, where he would go on to become one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in NFL history. The Bowman Draft card captures this pivotal moment with a playful inscription under his signature: “Yankees > Colts.”
One of the most fascinating elements of Elway’s MLB story is his place in baseball draft history. He was selected in the 1981 MLB Draft ahead of Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest hitters of all time. This little-known detail is highlighted in another variation of Elway’s card, which reads: “Drafted ahead of Gwynn.”
The 2024 Bowman Draft set is a must-have for baseball card collectors, showcasing the next generation of MLB talent. Known for its focus on prospects and draft picks, Bowman Draft consistently delivers a blend of excitement and potential, making it a favorite in the hobby. This year’s set features 200 cards, highlighting current draft picks and young players poised for greatness.
However, the inclusion of Elway’s card adds an unexpected layer of history and nostalgia, appealing to collectors beyond the traditional baseball fanbase. It’s a crossover moment that bridges baseball and football, creating a unique piece of memorabilia.
Elway’s card in the Bowman Draft set comes in several variations, ranging from base versions to highly coveted signed editions. The signed cards, some of which feature additional inscriptions like “Yankees > Colts,” have already become sought-after items in the sports memorabilia market. Prices for these cards reflect their rarity and crossover appeal:
Base Variations: Starting around $500.
Signed Limited Editions: Fetching thousands of dollars depending on the specific variation and condition.
For collectors, these cards are not only a tribute to Elway’s multi-sport legacy but also an investment in a unique piece of sports history.
The addition of John Elway to the Bowman Draft set is more than a gimmick—it’s a celebration of a pivotal moment in sports history. It reminds us that the path to greatness isn’t always straightforward. Elway’s story is one of bold decisions, exceptional talent, and the ability to excel in multiple arenas.
For Topps, it’s a creative way to blend the brand’s legacy of highlighting future stars with a nod to an alternate history that could have seen Elway trading touchdown passes for home runs.
Bowman Draft has always been about celebrating potential, and John Elway’s inclusion aligns perfectly with that ethos. Known for producing the first cards of future MLB stars, Bowman Draft captures the excitement of prospecting and the “what if” moments that make sports so compelling.
Elway’s card is a testament to his athletic prowess and a reminder of how one of football’s greatest players briefly flirted with baseball stardom. It’s a crossover moment that adds depth to both his legacy and the Bowman Draft set itself.
The 2024 Bowman Draft trading card set is already creating a buzz among collectors, and the inclusion of John Elway’s card has only amplified the excitement. Whether you’re a baseball card enthusiast, a Denver Broncos fan, or simply a collector of unique sports memorabilia, this card offers a chance to own a piece of sports history.
With variations ranging from base cards to limited signed editions, Elway’s Bowman card is poised to become one of the most iconic releases of the year. Don’t miss your chance to add this extraordinary collectible to your collection—it’s a celebration of what might have been and a tribute to a sports legend who could do it all.
